How to choose a accountant in Australia (2026 checklist)

Choose a accountant by checking these five things first: (1) relevant credentials and registration with the appropriate industry body, (2) a minimum of 50+ public reviews averaging 4.5+, (3) transparent itemised pricing in a written quote, (4) availability within your timeframe, and (5) responsiveness to your initial enquiry. Shortlist 3 candidates, ask the same 5 questions of each, and choose the one that scores highest on communication and value — not just the lowest price.

Simple PAYG return: $99-$160 (online or basic tax agent). Standard return with rental property or share trading: $250-$450. Complex with multiple income streams, capital gains, business income: $350-$700. Sole trader / contractor: $300-$700. Trust or company tax return: $1,200-$3,500. SMSF: $1,500-$3,000. Tax agent fees are tax-deductible in the following year. Most accountants offer free initial consultations.

You can lodge yourself via myGov for free, suitable for simple PAYG returns with no investments. However, an experienced accountant typically identifies $300-$2,000 in legitimate deductions you'd miss DIY — usually more than their fee. Use an accountant if you have: investment property, share/crypto trading, multiple jobs, sole trader/contractor income, business income, capital gains, salary sacrifice/novated leasing, or work-related expenses over $300. The peace of mind and audit support is also valuable.

Look for: CPA or CA membership (gold standard), tax agent registration with TPB (verify at tpb.gov.au), 5+ years experience in your industry, Xero or MYOB certified (depending on your software), transparent fixed-fee pricing rather than hourly billing, year-round availability not just tax time, willingness to provide proactive advice. Get 2-3 quotes before deciding. Check Google reviews, ask other small business owners in your industry, avoid accountants who only respond at EOFY.

All three are professional accounting bodies in Australia with similar standards: CPA Australia (Certified Practising Accountant) — 170,000+ members, focus on broader business and government accounting. CA ANZ (Chartered Accountants ANZ) — 136,000+ members, traditionally seen as elite, strong in big-firm advisory. IPA (Institute of Public Accountants) — 35,000+ members, focus on small-to-medium practice. For tax returns and small business work, all three are equivalent quality. Major banks/listed companies tend to prefer CA-qualified accountants for senior roles.

DIY via myGov: 31 October for the previous financial year (ends 30 June). Via registered tax agent: 15 May the following year (about 7 extra months). Late lodgement: $313 fine for first 4 weeks, then increasing penalties. If you're owed a refund and lodge late, no fine — but no refund either until you lodge. Best practice: lodge in July-August for fastest refund (most processed within 14 days).