Typical BAS agent pricing in Australia
There isn’t a single price that fits every business. These are common ranges to help you budget and compare quotes:
- Quarterly BAS (clean file, low–moderate volume): $220–$440 per lodgement.
- Quarterly BAS (complex or high volume): $440–$880+ per lodgement.
- Monthly BAS/IAS: often priced lower per period but higher per year due to frequency.
- Hourly BAS/bookkeeping work: $80–$140+ per hour (higher for senior advisors/accountants).
- Catch‑up BAS or file clean‑up: project-based $500–$3,000+ depending on history and complexity.
- Payroll add‑ons: $40–$100+ per pay run; EOFY STP finalisation $150–$400+ per entity.
- Software setup/migration/training: $300–$2,000+ plus any software subscriptions.
- ATO representation, payment plans or review of prior errors: usually hourly or fixed once scoped.
Prices vary by scope, record quality, transaction volume, industry requirements and whether your provider bundles bookkeeping with BAS.
What drives BAS cost up or down
- Volume and file quality: tidy reconciliations cost less than heavy clean‑ups or missing documents.
- Payroll and super: more employees, awards, leave and STP corrections increase time required.
- GST complexity: cash vs accrual, adjustments, mixed supplies, imports/exports, fuel tax credits.
- Industry specifics: construction TPAR, hospitality tips, medical exemptions, motor vehicle claims.
- Entity structure: single entity vs multi‑entity groups and intercompany transactions.
- Frequency and deadlines: monthly lodgers and urgent/overdue BAS need faster turnarounds.
- How you work: DIY day‑to‑day bookkeeping with review vs full “done‑for‑you” bookkeeping and BAS.
Pricing models compared
Fixed fee per BAS
Predictable for well‑defined scope and clean files. Works best when bookkeeping is current and the volume is stable.
Hourly for variable work
Good for unknowns, investigations and clean‑ups. Ask for a time estimate and progress check‑ins.
Monthly packages
Bundles bookkeeping, BAS, payroll and software support. Suits growing businesses wanting steady support and fewer surprises.
Hybrid approach
Fixed fee for recurring BAS plus hourly for ad‑hoc reviews, ATO queries or once‑off training.
Whichever model you choose, confirm what’s included, how scope changes are priced, and expected turnaround times.
Cost examples to benchmark your quote
- Micro business, quarterly BAS, cash basis, no payroll, cloud software tidy: $220–$330 per BAS.
- Small trade business, monthly IAS and quarterly BAS, 3 employees, subcontractors and TPAR: $330–$550 per BAS plus payroll add‑ons.
- Retail with inventory, accrual basis, payment gateways, occasional import GST: $440–$880 per BAS depending on volume.
- Two years catch‑up BAS with cleanup and ATO payment plan: $1,500–$4,000+ across the project, then normal per‑period fees.
How this usually works
Work backwards from your practical need: a single BAS lodged on time, a clean‑up plus catch‑up BAS, or a full bookkeeping and BAS package. Clarify deadlines (including any BAS agent lodgement concessions), then scope the tasks and hand‑offs.
Once the scope is clear, pricing is straightforward. If the file needs repair, most providers will split the work: first stabilise and reconcile, then move to a predictable per‑period fee or monthly package.
Australian context to keep in view
- BAS reports GST, PAYG withholding and other obligations to the ATO; accuracy matters to avoid penalties and interest.
- Registered BAS agents and tax agents appear on the Tax Practitioners Board public register—always verify before engaging.
- Agent lodgement programs often provide later due dates than self‑lodging, but eligibility and dates vary by client status.
- Software fit is critical: Xero, MYOB and QuickBooks Online can all work well with the right workflow and reconciliations.
What to compare before you commit
Scope
Confirm bookkeeping, reconciliations, review, adjustments, BAS prep and lodgement, plus who chases documents and when.
Software fit
Check hands‑on ability in your stack and the proposed workflow (bank rules, clearing accounts, payroll, inventory, gateways).
Turnaround and communication
Agree cut‑off dates, lodgement timelines, escalation during busy periods and how queries are handled.
Commercial fit
Compare fixed vs hourly vs package, reporting cadence, meeting rhythm and how scope creep is priced.
DIY vs using a BAS agent
DIY can be cost‑effective for very simple, low‑volume businesses using reliable software. If you have payroll, accruals, inventory, multiple sales channels, or you’re catching up on late BAS, a registered BAS agent is usually safer and faster. You also gain access to agent lodgement concessions and ATO representation if something needs fixing.
Best next steps
Decide whether you need a one‑off BAS, catch‑up and clean‑up, or ongoing package support. Write down deadlines, payroll details, sales channels and any prior‑period issues so a provider can price accurately the first time.
Use the related links to compare service options, then request a quote with your specifics.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a BAS agent cost?
For clean, simple books, many small businesses pay $220–$440 per quarterly BAS. Hourly rates for BAS/bookkeeping work are often $80–$140+. Complex files, multiple entities, payroll or import/export GST can lift fees to $440–$880+ per BAS. One‑off clean‑ups typically range from $500–$3,000+ depending on scope.
What should I check before deciding?
Confirm your reporting basis (cash/accrual), payroll/STP status, volume of transactions, prior‑period issues, software, deadlines and whether you want a one‑off BAS, a clean‑up, or an ongoing package. Verify TPB registration and ask about agent lodgement concessions.
When should I get professional advice?
Get advice if you have overdue BAS, payroll errors, GST adjustments, imports/exports, fuel tax credits, multi‑entity groups, or you’re switching software/providers mid‑year. Early input often reduces total cost and avoids penalties.
What is the safest next step?
List your deadlines and the last period lodged, then request a quote with your structure, software and any known issues. Use the form below to fast‑track a scoped estimate.