Cash Flow Forecasting Accountant

How this usually works

A good cash flow forecasting process starts with a fast assessment: software in use (Xero, MYOB or QuickBooks), reconciliation status, open invoices and bills, payroll cadence, GST profile and any immediate cash pressure.

From there the work typically runs in seven steps:

1. Data clean and connect: reconcile bank accounts, confirm AR/AP, lock last lodgements.
2. Map cash drivers: sales cycles, receipts timing, supplier terms, inventory, wages, super and taxes.
3. Build a 13‑week direct forecast: receipts and payments by week, tied to bank reality.
4. Create a 12–24 month plan: monthly cash view aligned to budget and growth assumptions.
5. Scenario modelling: toggle hiring, pricing, seasonality, inventory and marketing spend.
6. Alerts and actions: set thresholds for BAS, super, PAYG and low cash warnings.
7. Review rhythm: weekly/fortnightly short meeting and a monthly board-style review.

Australian context to keep in view

• GST, BAS and PAYG cycles have large cash impacts. Forecast them explicitly, not as averages. See BAS agent services.
• Payroll and super are cash-critical. Align the model to your pay runs and super due dates. See payroll services.
• ATO payment plans require realistic evidence. A clear forecast strengthens your case. See tax accountant.
• Common sectors with seasonality: construction, eCommerce, hospitality, trades and professional services—each needs tailored drivers.
• Funding conversations (overdraft, invoice finance, asset finance) move faster with a banker-ready forecast and assumptions pack.

What to compare before you commit

Deliverables you should expect

• Rolling 13‑week direct cash flow forecast aligned to bank timing.
• 12–24 month monthly cash plan linked to budget and strategy.
• Scenario set (best/base/worst) with editable key drivers.
• Assumptions register and version control.
• BAS, PAYG and super schedule embedded in the model.
• Board-ready PDF and spreadsheet exports.
• Action list: funding gap, cost controls, pricing levers and timing moves.

Pricing and timeframes in Australia

• Setup: typically $600–$3,000+ depending on cleanup, complexity and scenarios.
• Ongoing updates and meetings: $250–$1,500+ per month based on frequency and depth.
• Virtual CFO bundles: from $1,500–$5,000+ per month including reporting and strategy.
• Timeframes: 3–10 business days for initial build once data access and reconciliations are in place.

If your books need work first, see bookkeeping services. For broader planning support, see accounting services or small business accountant.

Who benefits most

• Businesses with tight cash windows around BAS, payroll or large supplier payments.
• Growing teams planning hires, equipment or marketing pushes.
• Seasonal operators who need to smooth receipts and stock purchases.
• Owners seeking funding or needing clarity for board/investor updates.
• New businesses planning runway and breakeven. See new business accountant.

Software we work with

We connect your accounting platform to an appropriate forecasting tool and keep the model reconciled to actuals:

• Source systems: Xero, MYOB, QuickBooks.
• Planning tools: Float, Spotlight Reporting, Fathom or a robust Excel model where custom logic is needed.
• Reporting: monthly board packs with variance analysis and commentary.

Best next steps

Write down your key drivers and dates: sales cycle, payment terms, payroll timing, BAS lodgements, and any one-off events (equipment, campaigns, tax). Decide whether you need weekly or monthly updates, and whether scenarios or funding support are required.

Shortlist providers who can explain assumptions, reconcile to actuals, and commit to a review rhythm. Use the links below to refine your brief, or go straight to the form to get help.