How switching accountant works in Australia (step‑by‑step)
- Decide the outcome you want: e.g. clear BAS position, accurate payroll/STP, tax planning, cleanup, or better reporting.
- Select the provider and sign an engagement letter that lists scope, fees, timing and responsibilities.
- Professional clearance: your new accountant requests handover from the current one and checks for ethical conflicts.
- ATO client‑agent linking (agent nomination): complete nomination in ATO Online services for business so the new agent can act.
- Software and data access: grant access to Xero/MYOB/QuickBooks, bank feeds, payroll, and document storage.
- Priorities and milestones: lock in urgent lodgements (BAS, PAYG, STP, tax), then schedule cleanup, process fixes and reporting.
When to switch accountant
- Deadlines or penalties keep appearing and responses are slow.
- Books rarely reconcile; you cannot rely on monthly numbers.
- Limited software capability or no help with workflow automation.
- Fees are unclear or scope keeps changing without notice.
- Business changed (growth, new entity, payroll scale, inventory) but service did not.
- You want proactive input on tax, BAS, payroll, bookkeeping or tax planning.
Australian context to keep in view
- Registration matters: check the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB) for tax/BAS agent status and membership such as CPA, CA ANZ or IPA.
- Agent nomination is now standard: most new engagements require you to nominate your agent in ATO Online services for business.
- ASIC agent changes (for companies): if your accountant handles company secretarial work, update the ASIC registered agent as part of the switch.
- Data ownership: you own your source records and lodged returns; accountants own their working papers. Request practical extracts relevant to continuity.
What to compare before you commit
Scope
Ensure the scope covers the real reason to switch accountant: cleanup, BAS lodgements, tax returns, payroll/STP, software setup, or ongoing advisory.
Software fit
Depth in your stack matters (Xero, MYOB, QuickBooks, add‑ons). Ask for examples of reconciliations, payroll fixes and reporting packs they build.
Turnaround + communication
Clarify response times, meeting rhythm, review cadence and how urgent items are escalated during BAS/EOFY peaks.
Commercial fit
Compare fixed‑fee packages vs hourly, inclusions, out‑of‑scope rules, and how price scales as your business grows.
Handover checklist for a clean switch
- Prior‑year tax returns and ATO assessments (companies, trusts, individuals as relevant).
- BAS/PAYG lodgement history and any ATO payment plans.
- Payroll: STP submissions, superannuation records, leave balances, awards/setup notes.
- Accounting software access: user invites, chart of accounts, bank rules, fixed asset register.
- Key documents: company, trust and partnership deeds; ASIC details; ABN/GST registrations.
- Open issues list: unreconciled items, cleanup scope, deadlines and responsibilities.
Timeline and seasonality
Most switches take 3–10 business days once you approve the engagement and complete agent nomination. Expect extra time if there is a backlog, software migration, or you switch during BAS or EOFY periods. A good provider will stabilise urgent lodgements first, then complete cleanup and process improvements.
Costs and engagement models
- Fixed monthly packages for ongoing bookkeeping, BAS, payroll and periodic tax.
- Project fees for catch‑up bookkeeping, cleanup and software migrations.
- Hourly or advisory retainers for CFO‑style reporting and planning.
Align price with outcomes and reporting needs. If you are new to business, see New Business Accountant. For compliance‑only scope, start with Accounting Services or Tax Accountant.
Best next steps
Write down your top three outcomes (for example: “lodge outstanding BAS”, “fix payroll/STP”, “monthly reporting I can trust”). Shortlist providers who show they can deliver those outcomes, not just list software logos. If you need local help, try Accountant Near Me or go straight to Find an Accountant.
Frequently asked questions
What does switch accountant usually involve?
It combines onboarding (engagement letter, access), professional clearance, ATO agent nomination, a review of your books and obligations, and an agreed plan for lodgements, cleanup and reporting. The exact scope depends on business size, software, structure and whether you need compliance only or broader advisory.
How do I know if this service suits my business?
It is a good fit when the new provider can clearly solve your pressure point: tax, BAS, payroll, bookkeeping backlog, software setup or management reporting.
What should I compare before choosing a provider?
Compare scope, pricing method, software competence, turnaround times, qualifications (TPB/CPA/CA/IPA), communication style and whether they are proactive or purely reactive.
Do I need to notify my current accountant?
Yes. Your new accountant will usually handle professional clearance and request a practical handover. You should settle outstanding fees and provide permission to release information.
How long does it take?
Typically 3–10 business days after engagement and agent nomination, with extra time for cleanup or peak periods.
What should I read next?
Use the related pages to move into the next decision layer: Accounting Services, Bookkeeping Services, Tax Accountant, BAS Agent Services, or the Help Centre.