How this usually works
Work backwards from the decision you need to make. Pin down the outcome (for example, lodge an overdue BAS, set up payroll with STP, migrate to Xero, prepare a company tax return, clean up bookkeeping, or get monthly management reports). Then match it to the right kind of provider and registration. That turns a broad “how to find a good accountant” search into a concrete next step.
If you want tailored help now, send a short brief with your structure, software, deadlines and the result you want—so the work can be scoped correctly before you commit.
Australian context to keep in view
- Registrations matter: income tax returns and tax advice require a TPB-registered tax agent; GST/BAS and payroll reporting can be handled by a TPB-registered BAS agent or tax agent.
- Professional membership (CA ANZ, CPA Australia, IPA) supports standards and ongoing education.
- Software depth counts: a good accountant can explain the process in Xero, MYOB or QuickBooks (not just name the product).
- Compliance vs advisory: decide whether you want compliance only (lodgements and reconciliations) or broader forward-looking advisory.
- Deadlines drive risk: BAS/IAS due dates, STP, super guarantee, and year-end tax lodgements influence the level of support you need.
What to compare before you commit
Scope
Confirm the engagement covers exactly what you need—setups, catch-ups, reconciliations, payroll, BAS/IAS lodgements, year-end tax, and reporting cadences. Ask what’s included, excluded and billed as extra.
Software fit
Check hands-on capability in your stack (Xero, MYOB, QuickBooks, Dext, Hubdoc, Receipt Bank). Ask for the monthly workflow and who does what to avoid gaps and duplicate effort.
Turnaround and communication
Clarify response times, meeting rhythms, how documents are shared, review points before lodgement, and escalation during peak periods.
Commercial fit
Compare fixed-fee vs hourly, notice periods, payment terms, and whether you’ll get proactive reminders for BAS, STP, super and EOFY. Request an engagement letter that lists deliverables and deadlines.
Best next steps
Write a one-line brief that states your structure (sole trader, company, partnership or trust), software, deadlines and the result you want. Attach a short list of pain points (for example, overdue BAS, payroll errors, messy chart of accounts, or missing receipts).
Then compare the most relevant pathways: small business accountant for end‑to‑end help, bookkeeping services for daily/weekly coding and reconciliations, BAS agent services for GST/BAS, payroll services for STP and super, tax accountant for returns and planning, and new business accountant for setup and registrations.
If you want to move now, request help and we’ll map your brief to the right support.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find a good accountant in Australia?
Define the job first, then check the right registration (TPB tax agent for tax work; TPB BAS agent for GST/payroll), confirm software capability, and get scope, pricing and turnaround in writing. Shortlist two or three providers, ask for recent examples in your industry, and choose the one who explains the workflow clearly and sets deadlines you trust.
What qualifications and registrations should I check?
For tax returns and advice: TPB-registered tax agent. For BAS/GST and payroll reporting: TPB-registered BAS agent or tax agent. Membership with CA ANZ, CPA Australia or IPA is also common. Ask for their TPB registration number and proof of professional indemnity insurance.
How much does a good accountant cost in Australia?
Typical ranges: bookkeeping $50–$120+ per hour or $250–$1,200+ per month; BAS $150–$400+ per lodgement; sole trader tax return $220–$660+; company/trust year‑end $1,200–$3,500+. Confirm inclusions and turnaround to compare like for like.
When do I need a tax agent vs a BAS agent?
Use a tax agent for income tax returns and tax planning. Use a BAS agent for GST/BAS, PAYG withholding, STP payroll reporting and super calculations. Many firms hold both registrations; choose based on the work required.