Updated for the 2025–26 income year (tax returns lodged from 1 July 2026), with 2026–27 changes noted. Reviewed 19 October 2026.
A good bookkeeper keeps your records accurate and your BAS on time. A great one also makes your processes simpler and helps you understand your numbers. Here are seven signs you've found a great bookkeeper.
1. Training and registration
Your bookkeeper should have formal bookkeeping or accounting training and, if they prepare your BAS for a fee, be a registered BAS agent (or work under a registered tax or BAS agent). Registration means the Tax Practitioners Board is satisfied they have the qualifications and experience required. You can check registration on the TPB's public register.
2. Relevant experience
Experienced bookkeepers may charge a higher hourly rate, but often work faster and make fewer errors. Illustration (hypothetical figures): 5 hours at $90 an hour ($450) costs less than 20 hours at $50 an hour ($1,000). Compare total cost and quality, not just the hourly rate.
3. They understand your business processes
A great bookkeeper learns how your business actually runs – how you quote, invoice, buy and pay – and streamlines it, rather than just entering data.
4. They're on top of your software
They know your accounting platform well (Xero, MYOB or QuickBooks), use bank feeds, rules and receipt-capture apps, and keep your chart of accounts and GST codes clean.
5. They know payroll and super rules
Payroll is high-risk. A great bookkeeper reports through Single Touch Payroll, applies awards correctly, pays super at 12%, and is ready for Payday Super, which from 1 July 2026 requires super to be paid each payday.
6. They communicate and meet deadlines
They tell you what's due and when (for example, quarterly BAS on 28 October, 28 February, 28 April and 28 July), raise issues early, and respond promptly.
7. They give you useful information
Beyond compliance, they provide regular reports – profit and loss, cash flow, aged receivables – and flag trends you should know about. They also work well with your accountant at year end.
Looking for a bookkeeper? See our bookkeeping service and BAS service.
Frequently asked questions
Does my bookkeeper need to be a registered BAS agent?
If they charge a fee to prepare or lodge your BAS or give BAS advice, they must be a registered BAS or tax agent, or work under one's supervision.
How do I check if a bookkeeper is registered?
Search the Tax Practitioners Board's public register.
Is a cheaper bookkeeper better value?
Not necessarily. Compare the total cost and quality of the work, not just the hourly rate.