Finding the right accountant can make a significant difference to your finances, your tax return, and the long-term health of your business. With thousands of accountants across Australia, knowing who to trust is not always straightforward. This guide walks you through exactly what to look for, what questions to ask, and how to avoid costly mistakes.
Why Choosing the Right Accountant Matters
A good accountant does far more than lodge your tax return. The right professional helps you structure your finances correctly, minimise your tax obligations legally, protect your assets, and plan for growth. The wrong one can cost you in missed deductions, incorrect filings, ATO penalties, and wasted time fixing preventable problems.
Step 1 – Check Their Qualifications and Registrations
In Australia, the most important thing to verify is whether your accountant is a registered tax agent with the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB). Only registered tax agents can legally charge a fee for preparing and lodging tax returns. You can verify this at the TPB register at tpb.gov.au.
For more complex needs, look for membership of one of the three main professional bodies:
- CPA Australia – Certified Practising Accountant, the most widely recognised designation in Australia
- CA ANZ – Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, well regarded for corporate and business clients
- IPA – Institute of Public Accountants, common among smaller and regional practices
Step 2 – Identify the Right Specialisation
Not all accountants handle all situations equally well. Before you search, clarify what you actually need:
- Individual tax return – Almost any registered tax agent can handle this efficiently
- Small business accounting – Look for experience with your business structure (sole trader, company, trust, partnership)
- SMSF (self-managed super fund) – Requires an SMSF auditor and specialist knowledge of superannuation law
- Property investment – Depreciation schedules, negative gearing, CGT planning – ask specifically about investment property experience
- International tax – Overseas income, expat returns, foreign entities – a niche that requires specific expertise
Step 3 – Understand Their Fee Structure Upfront
Accountant fees in Australia vary widely. Individual tax returns typically cost between $150 and $400 through a standard practice. Complex business accounts, BAS lodgement, year-end financials and advisory work can run to several thousand dollars per year. Always ask for a clear fee schedule before you engage anyone, and confirm whether fees are fixed or hourly.
Be cautious of any accountant who is vague about costs upfront, or who only discusses fees after reviewing your situation without giving you a rough estimate first.
Step 4 – Ask These Questions Before You Commit
- Are you a registered tax agent with the TPB?
- What accounting software do you use and will I have access to my own records?
- Who will actually work on my file – you directly, or a junior staff member?
- How do you communicate with clients – email, phone, in-person meetings?
- What is your turnaround time for tax returns and year-end accounts?
- Do you proactively advise me on tax-saving opportunities, or do I need to ask?
- What happens if the ATO audits me or requests an amendment?
Step 5 – Read Reviews and Ask for References
Reviews matter. Look at Google reviews, word-of-mouth from other business owners in your industry, and listings on professional directories. Pay particular attention to comments about responsiveness, accuracy, and whether the accountant proactively identified issues or opportunities – not just lodged the return and sent an invoice.
Red Flags to Avoid
- Promises unusually large refunds before reviewing your actual records
- Suggests claiming deductions you know are not legitimate
- Not registered with the TPB or a professional body
- Unclear fee structure or surprise invoices
- Consistently slow to respond to calls or emails
- Signs documents on your behalf without your review and approval
Find an Accountant Near You
FIZO lists thousands of registered accountants, tax agents, and bookkeepers across Australia. Search by suburb, city, or state to find qualified professionals near you, compare reviews, and make contact directly. Find an accountant on FIZO or browse accountants in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide.