How this usually works
A practical new business accountant Wollongong process starts with a short discovery: what you’re building, where revenue will come from, who will do the books, and any deadlines (opening date, first payroll, first BAS or grant milestones).
From there the work typically runs in three stages:
- Setup and registrations: structure choice and entity setup, ABN, TFN, GST and PAYG, business name with ASIC, bank and merchant accounts.
- Systems and workflow: software selection (Xero, MYOB, QuickBooks), clean chart of accounts, bank feeds, receipt capture, invoice and pay-run process, document storage.
- Compliance rhythm: BAS cycle, payroll STP, super, year‑end tax planning, cash flow and tax savings plan, and a monthly or quarterly review cadence.
Australian context to keep in view
- An ABN is required before GST registration. If you don’t quote an ABN when required, payers may need to withhold at 47%.
- GST registration is compulsory once turnover reaches $75,000 in a 12‑month period. Consider early registration to claim credits.
- Super guarantee is 12% (from 1 July 2025). Payroll must report through Single Touch Payroll (STP) with on‑time super payments.
- Company directors must have a Director ID. Trading names need to be registered as a business name with ASIC.
- NSW specifics: check licences via Service NSW, workers compensation with icare, and local rules via Wollongong City Council. Hospitality, construction and healthcare in the Illawarra often have award and record‑keeping details to get right from day one.
What to compare before you commit
Scope
Confirm the scope covers structure advice, ABN/TFN, GST and PAYG registrations, payroll/STP setup, super, chart of accounts, opening balances, BAS and first‑year tax obligations.
Software fit
Go beyond product names. Ask how Xero, MYOB or QuickBooks will map to your POS, job management, eCommerce or time‑tracking tools—and how documents will flow.
Turnaround and communication
Request a timeline for each step, preferred contact channels, and how urgent items (first payroll, BAS cut‑off) are handled during busy periods.
Credentials and compliance
For tax and BAS work, check registrations and memberships (TPB‑registered tax/BAS agent, CPA/CA). Make sure engagement letters and pricing are clear.
Commercial fit
Compare fixed‑fee setup vs. hourly, what’s included in monthly packages, and whether you want compliance‑only or ongoing advisory and cash‑flow support.
Packages for Wollongong startups
While every business is different, new venture packages in the Illawarra usually include:
- Structure setup and registrations (ABN, GST, PAYG, business name) with ASIC/ATO lodgements handled.
- Software setup and workflow design (Xero, MYOB or QuickBooks) with receipt capture, bank feeds and templates.
- Payroll, STP and super configuration; award interpretation where relevant.
- Cash‑flow plan for the first 90–180 days, plus a tax and BAS calendar.
- Quarterly BAS lodgement and a simple month‑end checklist to keep you on track.
Popular sectors we help across Wollongong, Shellharbour and Kiama include trades and construction, professional services, hospitality and cafes, health and allied health, eCommerce and creative businesses.
Best next steps
Write down the outcomes you want: for example, “company set up with GST and payroll by opening date”, “Xero live with clean chart of accounts”, or “first BAS and cash‑flow forecast in place”. Shortlist providers against those outcomes, not just titles.
If you’re still broad, start at the services hub or the new business accountant hub. If you’re comparing software or models, head to the comparison pages. Ready to move? Share your brief below and get matched.
Frequently asked questions
What does a new business accountant in Wollongong actually do?
They help you choose and establish the right structure, register ABN, GST and PAYG, set up payroll with STP and super, configure Xero/MYOB/QuickBooks, and create a simple compliance and cash‑flow rhythm so you can trade with confidence.
Do I need a local provider in Wollongong?
Many services can be delivered remotely, but a local provider is useful for in‑person meetings, Illawarra industry context and help coordinating with Service NSW, Wollongong City Council and local lenders or advisors.
When should I register for GST?
Registration is required when your GST turnover reaches $75,000 in a 12‑month period, or if you provide taxi or ride‑sourcing services. Some startups register earlier to claim input tax credits.
Which accounting software should I choose?
Choose the system that best fits your workflow and add‑ons. Your accountant should map processes (sales, purchases, payroll, reporting) and recommend Xero, MYOB or QuickBooks with the right plan and integrations.
How much will setup cost?
Expect a fixed‑fee for structure and registrations plus software setup, with optional monthly packages for bookkeeping, BAS and payroll. Ask for an itemised scope and clear turnaround times before you commit.
What are the first compliance dates I should note?
Mark your BAS lodgement cycle, payroll processing dates, super due dates (super guarantee is 12% from 1 July 2025), and your first income tax lodgement window. A simple calendar avoids most first‑year surprises.