How this usually works
A good “how it works” process starts with clarity and ends with clean execution. For most Australian businesses, the flow looks like this:
Step 1 - Brief and deadlines: You outline the outcome you want (for example, clear the bookkeeping backlog, lodge BAS, fix payroll, set up Xero/MYOB/QuickBooks, or improve management reporting) and any ATO or payroll due dates.
Step 2 - Confirm and add detail: You confirm your email, then answer a few quick questions about structure (sole trader, company, partnership or trust), software, payroll/STP, GST registration and deadlines so the match is accurate.
Step 3 - Right fit match: We match you with a provider whose skills, software depth and price model fit the brief-Bookkeeping, BAS, Payroll, Tax, New Business or Advisory. We email you their introduction; reply to it and they will be in touch.
Step 4 - Scope, price and start: You agree clear inclusions/exclusions, turnaround times, who does what, and the fee method (fixed, package or hourly). Work begins with a clean handover.
Australian context to keep in view
- Registrations and standards matter. Check TPB registration for BAS/tax work and qualifications such as CPA, CA ANZ or IPA for advisory and compliance.
- Software depth saves time. Ask about Xero, MYOB and QuickBooks capability, bank feed cleanup, STP Phase 2, payroll awards and super payments.
- ATO and state timing drives priority-BAS, PAYG, super, payroll tax and annual tax returns all carry penalties if missed.
- Decide if you want compliance only or proactive advisory (cash flow, budgets, KPI dashboards and board‑level reporting).
What to compare before you commit
Scope
Confirm exact inclusions: catch‑up bookkeeping, BAS prep and lodgement, payroll/STP, super, year‑end tax, management reports, software setup/migration and training. List what is out of scope to avoid gaps.
Software fit
Choose providers fluent in your stack (Xero, MYOB, QuickBooks, Dext, Hubdoc, Lightspeed, Shopify). Ask for workflow examples, not just logos.
Turnaround and communication
Agree response times, monthly cadence, peak period handling, and how issues are escalated. Clarify secure document sharing and who signs ATO lodgements.
Commercial fit
Compare fixed fees vs hourly, minimum terms, onboarding costs and reporting rhythm. Check for TPB registration and professional memberships, and whether the service is proactive, not just reactive.
Best next steps
Write down the outcome you want and the deadline. If it is compliance focused, see Tax, BAS or Payroll. If it is operational, see Bookkeeping or Small Business. If you are setting up or switching, see New Business and the Services hub.
If you are comparing options, jump to the comparison pages and the Help Centre for short, specific answers. When you are ready, send your brief and we'll match you with an accountant or bookkeeper and email you their introduction. Reply to it and they'll be in touch.
Frequently asked questions
How does Get Accounting Help work?
We follow a four-step process: you tell us your goal and deadlines, confirm your email and add a few details about your structure and software, we match you with an accountant or bookkeeper for the work type and email you their introduction, then you reply and agree scope, price and timeline directly with them.
How do I know if this service suits my business?
It suits when you want a provider aligned to your real pressure point-BAS, payroll, tax, bookkeeping, software or reporting-and you prefer clear scope, fixed timelines and Australian‑specific guidance.
What should I compare before choosing a provider?
Compare scope, pricing, software depth, turnaround times, registrations (TPB) and qualifications (CPA, CA ANZ, IPA), plus how proactive they are with ATO, cash flow and reporting-not just year‑end.
What should I read next?
Go to the Services hub, Bookkeeping, Tax, BAS, Payroll or the Help Centre. When ready, send your brief.