How this usually works
Work backwards from the outcome you need. If your priority is clean, timely data and cash flow visibility, look to bookkeeping services. If you must meet a tax deadline, change structure or plan for growth, an accountant or tax agent is the next step.
Link the task to the right registration and scope, then shortlist providers by software expertise, responsiveness and clarity of process. If you prefer a guided match, request help now.
Australian context to keep in view
- BAS work requires a BAS agent registration. Only registered BAS agents can charge for BAS/IAS preparation, GST coding advice and PAYG‑W advice.
- Tax returns and tax advice require a tax agent registration. Accountants who are registered tax agents can lodge company, trust and individual returns and provide tax planning.
- Payroll includes STP and Super. Whether handled by a bookkeeper, BAS agent or accountant, make sure they can manage STP, super guarantee and award interpretation where needed.
- Solid bookkeeping lowers tax fees. Clean, reconciled data reduces year‑end cleanup and supports better advice.
- Software matters. Confirm capability with Xero, MYOB or QuickBooks, including bank rules, add‑ons and reporting dashboards.
Bookkeeper vs Accountant: who does what in Australia
Typical bookkeeper scope
- Bank feeds, coding and reconciliations
- Customer invoicing, receivables follow‑up and supplier payments
- Expense management and document capture
- Payroll processing, STP lodgements and super payments
- BAS/IAS preparation and lodgement when engaged as a registered BAS agent
- Month‑end checks and management reports
Typical accountant scope
- Year‑end financial statements and tax returns (as a registered tax agent)
- Tax planning, forecasts and cash flow modelling
- Business and new entity setup, structuring and registrations
- Advisory: pricing, margins, budgeting and performance reviews
- Complex GST, fringe benefits tax, capital gains tax and ATO engagement
If your needs span both lists, engage both roles or choose a firm that provides an integrated team.
When to choose each (with examples)
Choose a bookkeeper or BAS agent when
You’re behind on reconciliations, need invoices paid and chased, want payroll done correctly, or must lodge BAS accurately and on time.
Good fit for growing SMEs that need clean month‑to‑month data and reliable compliance workflows.
Choose an accountant/tax agent when
You need tax returns, year‑end accounts, planning for tax and cash, a business restructure, due diligence, or strategic reporting.
Good fit for owners wanting insight and decisions backed by accurate numbers.
When you need both
Most established businesses benefit from a bookkeeper for daily accuracy and an accountant for tax and advisory. The clearer your books, the more valuable your accountant’s input.
Not sure?
Describe your situation and we’ll match you to the right pathway.
What to compare before you commit
Scope
Confirm deliverables, frequency and ownership of tasks. For BAS or tax lodgements, confirm the relevant TPB registration.
Software fit
Check depth with Xero/MYOB/QuickBooks, payroll add‑ons and reporting. Ask them to outline the workflow and controls.
Turnaround & communication
Agree on response times, month‑end rhythm, how urgent items are escalated and who covers leave/peak periods.
Commercial fit
Compare fixed‑fee vs hourly, inclusions, review meetings and advisory time. Ensure the cadence suits your stage of business.
Typical pricing in Australia (guide only)
- Bookkeeping: often $60–$120+ per hour or $300–$1,500+ per month depending on transaction volume, payroll headcount and reporting.
- BAS preparation/lodgement: packaged or fixed‑fee with a registered BAS agent; price varies by complexity and frequency (monthly/quarterly).
- Accounting & tax: often $150–$400+ per hour or fixed fees for year‑end accounts and tax returns, with separate pricing for planning/advisory.
Well‑structured processes, clear records and the right software stack reduce costs and improve turnaround.
Best next steps
Write down the outcome you want: clean up the books, lodge BAS, file tax returns, fix payroll, switch software or get proactive advisory.
Then shortlist providers against that outcome, not just a title. The right fit explains the process clearly, sets expectations early and connects today’s task to your long‑term goals.
Frequently asked questions
Bookkeeper vs Accountant?
Bookkeepers keep your records current (banks, bills, invoices, payroll) and, if registered as BAS agents, can lodge BAS and advise on GST/PAYG‑W. Accountants/tax agents prepare financial statements and tax returns, manage tax planning and structure, and provide higher‑level advisory. Many businesses engage both.
What should I check before deciding?
Check the provider’s TPB registration (BAS or tax agent), scope of work, software capability, reporting deadlines, business structure fit, communication rhythm and whether you need compliance only or ongoing advisory input.
When should I get professional advice?
When choices affect tax, structure, payroll risk, GST complexity, ATO deadlines, funding, pricing or you’re facing growth/transition such as a software migration or new entity setup.
What is the safest next step?
Match the task to the role: bookkeeping/BAS vs accounting/tax. Review the linked service pages, then use the form to outline your situation and get directed to the right support.