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In this guide

In this guide

The Best Tax Accountants in Brisbane

Updated 16 March 2023

Summary

Brisbane Tax accountants offer a range of services to individuals and businesses, including:

  1. Tax preparation and lodgement of tax returns for individuals and businesses, ensuring compliance with tax laws and regulations.
  2. Tax planning and advice on strategies to minimize your tax liability, such as structuring your investments or business in a tax-effective manner.
  3. Financial reporting, such as preparing business financial statements and tax returns.
  4. Business advisory including advice on business structuring, start-up advice, cash flow management, and other financial matters.
  5. Superannuation advice and planning, including contribution strategies, investment options, and retirement planning.

Overall, Accountants can be expensive, with prices and services varying significantly. Some focus on basic compliance (e.g. for individual tax returns), while others offer business advice and strategy. It’s essential to find an accountant compatible with your personality and needs and who understands and respects your approach to managing your finances.

Know This:

  • Whatever your tax needs (business, personal or both), pricing structures can be fixed fees or hourly rates
  • Our guide covers costs, questions to know upfront, DIY options and frequently asked questions.
  • We also list Brisbane’s most trusted and experienced tax accountant whatever your needs – personal, business, family or anything else.Tax Accountants Brisbane Costs

How Much Do Tax Accountant Services Cost?

Tax accountant prices in Brisbane can vary depending on several factors, including the size of your business and/or the complexity of your personal tax affairs (and return). Specifically:

  1. The complexity of tax affairs: The more complex your tax affairs, the higher the cost of hiring a tax accountant.
  2. Level of experience: Tax accountants with more experience and expertise may charge higher fees.
  3. Type of service required: The cost of different services, such as tax preparation or business advisory, may vary.
  4. Time required: Tax accountants may charge hourly rates or flat fees for their services, and the time required to complete the work can affect the cost.

As a general guide, consumers can expect to pay between $150 and $300+ per hour for the services of a Brisbane-based tax accountant. However, some tax accountants may also offer fixed fees for specific services, such as tax preparation or business advisory, which can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars depending on the complexity of the work. 

For Individual Tax Returns, you can expect to pay a few basic price points for tax accountant services:

  • The average cost of tax consultant services in Australia for a simple tax return is $150 to $300, whereas as more complex tax return average around $300 to $500.
  • If you have a very complex tax return, you may be looking at an invoice of $1,000 or more.
  • Your actual bill will depend on your situation and if you intend to have an ongoing relationship with a consultant/accountant throughout the year.

For Business Tax Returns, costs and services vary widely:

  • Cheaper-end services (<$800 per year): You’ll likely receive minimal service; they may only print your Xero/MYOB reports and prepare a tax return.
  • Mid-tier from an accountancy firm ($1,500): This will likely be a comprehensive service, including the preparation of annual accounts, tax returns, minutes, and a meeting to discuss any issues.
  • DIY accounting solutions: Many Australian business owners use Xero and MYOB and then engage an accountant, share access with them and pay to have them review transactions and provide guidance. 
  • Whoever you decide to hire, it’s essential to be upfront about your intentions and expectations, so there’s no shortfall or risk of getting into trouble with the ATO.
  • If you’re starting a business, some accountants may be willing to help set up your system and provide guidance, while others may be more protective of their methods.

How can I get the best price for tax accountant services?

You can do two things to get the best price for tax accountant services:

  1. Take the time to look around. There are many accounting firms in Brisbane, so comparing prices and services is important before you commit to one. You’re unlikely to switch around so make sure you can have a good working relationship before proceeding.
  2. Don’t be afraid to negotiate. Many firms are willing to work with you on price, so it’s worth asking for a discount. From an accountant’s perspective, tax is regular work and valuable to keep a client long-term. For this reason there may be some room to move on price.
  3. Get organised. Whatever your tax accountant needs, don’t cause them delays otherwise you’ll be paying for their back-and-forth one way or another. You need to pre-empt their needs by having everything ready and listening to what they say.

Tax Accountants Brisbane Charges

How am I Charged?

Tax consultants/accountants can charge you in Australia in several different ways. Here are some of the ways to get charged by tax consultants;

  • The most common method is for the consultant to charge an hourly rate for their services. This may mean you have fewer upfront costs, but the overall expense will depend on how long they spend working for you.
  • Some consultants may also work on a fixed-fee basis, charging a set amount for their services regardless of the time taken. This may be a higher upfront cost, but it can help avoid incurring high costs in the future.
  • Many consultants may also offer hourly and fixed-fee rates depending on the work undertaken.

Ultimately, how you are charged will depend on the nature of the work undertaken and the agreement between you and the consultant/accountant.

How do I pay for the tax accountant services?

You can pay for tax accountant services via bank transfer, credit card, debit card, cash and an online third-party payment systems (e.g., PayPal).Tax Accountants Brisbane Questions to Ask Upfront

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Tax Accountant

The success of a tax accountant will be based on price, responsiveness and how effective they are in securing deductions to lower your tax bill. Therefore, before you make a decision, we suggest considering asking the following questions:

  1. What types of tax returns do you prepare? Some accountants specialize in certain tax returns, such as personal income or small business tax. Those with experience in your industry for arguably provide greater value and efficiency.
  2. What is your approach to tax planning and minimizing tax liability? A good tax accountant should be able to provide advice on ways to minimize your tax liability legally – they will ask you some foundation questions and offer advice.
  3. How do you communicate with clients? For example, do they prefer to communicate via email, phone, or in-person meetings? It’s important to find an accountant who communicates in a way that works for you – the ATO has strict deadlines, and you need to ensure your accountant can contact you and progress your return efficiently.
  4. What are your fees? It’s important to understand the fees upfront and whether they are fixed or based on hourly rates.
  5. What services are included in your fee? Some accountants may offer additional services, such as bookkeeping or financial planning, as part of their fee. However, don’t be talked into upgraded packages for services you don’t need. 
  6. How will you provide updates on the progress of my tax return? Knowing how often you can expect updates and whether additional costs are associated is important.
  7. Can you help me with tax audits or disputes with the ATO? You want to know if your accountant can help you if you’re audited or need to discuss a contentious matter. Do they have experience handling tax audits or disputes with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO)?
  8. How do you ensure accuracy in tax returns? What processes are in place? Who is responsible for penalties or fines for inaccurate returns?
  9. Do you advise on other financial matters, such as superannuation? Some accountants may offer additional financial planning services, so it’s worth asking if this is something that they can provide.
  10. Can you provide a written engagement letter outlining the scope of services, fees, and other terms? A written engagement letter can help ensure that you and the accountant clearly understand the scope of services, fees, and other terms of the engagement.

Top Tip: Make sure the accountant you engage is registered with the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB), which regulates tax agents and BAS agents in Australia.Tax Accountants Brisbane DIY Options

Can I Do My Own Tax Return?

Many people wonder if they can do their taxes independently; the answer is yes, it is more than possible. It also saves on professional fees and gives you a sense of control and understanding of your finances. 

However, there are a few potential downsides to consider.

The ATO is comprehensive, but the Australian tax system is also complex. There are many forms and documents to gather. It can be challenging to know which deductions you’re eligible for, and it’s easy to make mistakes that could result in owing the ATO money, plus interest and penalties.

Are your tax affairs simple or complex?

  • If your tax situation is straightforward, such as if you only have one source of income and don’t have many deductions, doing your taxes yourself could be a good option. The ATO provides free resources and online tools, including a tax filing simulator, to help people file taxes, including the myTax system.
  • However, if your tax situation is more complex, such as if you’re self-employed, have multiple sources of income, or have many deductions, it might be worth seeking professional help. A tax accountant can provide expert guidance and advice on optimising your tax situation and help ensure you don’t make any costly mistakes.

To help you decide if DIY is right for you, we list some must-know considerations:

  1. Deadlines: It’s important to ensure you meet all tax filing deadlines to avoid any penalties or interest charges from the ATO. You’ll need to gather all the necessary documents and information.
  2. Record-keeping: Keeping good records throughout the year can make tax filing easier and help ensure you don’t miss any important deductions or credits. This means you’ll need to save all relevant receipts and documents.
  3. Peace of mind: Hiring a tax accountant can ensure your taxes are being filed correctly and help minimise the risk of costly mistakes or issues with the ATO. If you DIY, you have no protection. 
  4. Time commitments: Filing your taxes can be time-consuming, particularly if you’re unfamiliar with the process. Do you have the time and patience to manage it alone? 
  5. Knowledge of Australian tax laws: How familiar are you? Do you keep current with tax law changes that may impact your tax situation?
  6. Accuracy: Making mistakes on your tax return can be costly. If you’re filing your taxes yourself, it’s important to double-check your work and ensure that all of the information is accurate. Again, this is more time without a backstop to ensure it’s right. If you get it wrong, it may affect your future tax returns. 
  7. Audit risk: Filing your taxes yourself can increase the risk of being audited by the ATO. While this is not necessarily a reason to avoid doing your taxes, it’s important to ensure that your tax return is accurate and complete to minimise the risk of an audit.
  8. Professional advice: Even if you decide to file your taxes yourself, seeking professional advice can be helpful. A tax accountant can review your tax situation and guide any areas of concern or confusion, helping to ensure that you file your taxes correctly and avoid any costly mistakes.

Tax Accountants Brisbane Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What services can a tax accountant offer me?

A tax accountant can offer a range of services, including tax preparation, lodgement and compliance, advice on tax planning, financial reporting, business advice and structuring, and superannuation advice.

How do I know if I need a tax accountant?

If you have complex tax affairs, such as multiple sources of income, investments, rental properties, or a small business, it is recommended to hire a tax accountant. A tax accountant can help ensure you comply with tax laws, minimize tax liability, and maximize deductions.

How much does a tax accountant in Brisbane cost?

The cost of a tax accountant in Brisbane can vary depending on the services you require, the complexity of your tax affairs, and the level of experience of the accountant. Some tax accountants charge by the hour, while others charge a fixed fee for their services.

Can a tax accountant help me with tax planning?

Yes, a tax accountant can help you with tax planning by providing advice on strategies to minimize your tax liability, such as structuring your investments or business in a tax-effective manner.

How can a tax accountant help me with my small business?

A tax accountant can help you with various small business services, including business structure advice, financial reporting, tax planning, payroll and superannuation compliance, and business advisory services.

Can I see my tax accountant in person or communicate with them remotely?

Many tax accountants in Brisbane offer remote communication options such as phone or video conferencing, email or secure file sharing. However, it is recommended to establish clear communication channels with your tax accountant to ensure your needs are met.

Can a tax accountant help me with my personal tax return?

Yes – their services can include:

  • Preparing and lodging your tax return.
  • Advising on deductions and tax planning.
  • Ensuring you comply with tax laws.

Can a tax accountant help me with a tax audit?

Yes, a tax accountant can help you with a tax audit by representing you before the tax office, providing evidence to support your tax position, and negotiating with the tax office on your behalf.

Can a tax accountant help me with my superannuation?

Yes, a tax accountant can advise on superannuation planning, including contribution strategies, investment options, and retirement planning.

What qualifications does a tax accountant need to have?

A tax accountant in Brisbane should hold a relevant degree in accounting, be registered with a professional body such as CPA Australia, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CAANZ), or the Institute of Public Accountants (IPA), and have a Tax Agent Registration Number (TARN).Best Brisbane Tax Accountants

Our List of the Best Brisbane Tax Accountants

Etax Accountants

Overview:

What customers like:

  • The process Etax offers is user-friendly, straight-forward and very simple to follow.
  • Website is easy to navigate with everything easy to understand in simple lay-man terms.
  • Accountants message clients promptly when an error has occurred. 
  • Genuinely enjoy and take pride in their work.
  • Provide a tax calculation service on their website.

Services offered (but not limited to): Online tax returns, live help from qualified Etax Accountants, direct electronic ATO lodgement.

Link Advisors

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Communication is always fast and easy to understand. 
  • Tailored solutions and services. 
  • Responsive to questions. 
  • Modern approach, well designed to make things easy.

Services offered (but not limited to): Accounting, book-keeping, marketing.

Bristax

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Helpful and knowledgeable team.
  • Extremely fast and efficient service.
  • Communication is quick and regular so that you always know where you are in the process.
  • Can provide online appointments for convenience.

Services offered (but not limited to): Personal tax returns and advice, small business accounting, SMSF.

Lee and Associates

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Competitive pricing.
  • Connections with great tactical financial planners who advise clients on how to approach their financial goals and make the most out of their income.
  • Gives good advice, and options to suit the needs of clients.

Services offered (but not limited to): Preparation and lodgement of income tax return for individuals/businesses, preparation and lodgement of business activity statements, book-keeping services, assistance with loans and finance.

Amour Accountants

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Great service, very knowledgeable and reasonably priced.
  • Simple process with no fuss and knows the process and tax laws well.
  • Very easy to deal with.

Services offered (but not limited to): Business structure advice, company registration, taxation, individual tax return, financial planning.

Vault Accountants and Business Advisors

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Professional and thorough.
  • Good constructive advice, and have been supportive throughout the process of moving a superannuation from an industry fund to self-managed.
  • Extremely responsive.
  • Patient and accommodating.

Services offered (but not limited to): Accounting, business advisory, SMSF.

Ruby Lam Accountants

Overview:

What customers like about Ruby Lam Accountants:

  • Very professional accounting services, easy going, no hassles.
  • Extremely efficient, knowledgeable.
  • Explained things very clearly. 
  • Patient with getting all the info right.

Services offered (but not limited to): Taxation and advice, superannuation.

IMT Accountants & Advisors

Overview:

What customers like about IMT:

  • Competent and efficient in processing client tax returns.
  • High level of customer service.
  • Reliable and delivers exceptional results.
  • Very thorough and ensures clients get the best result possible.

Services offered (but not limited to): Accountant service, superannuation service, bookkeeping, administration.

Affinitas Accounting (data does not match with links: Flora) 

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Quick and thorough processing of clients tax returns.
  • Professional, friendly and experienced with Xero. 
  • Variety of financial options.
  • Excellent and friendly service from phone calls, emails and face to face.

Services offered (but not limited to): Business/personal tax and accounting, business management, superannuation and investment.

Inspire Accountants

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Able to clearly advise on a proactive approach to accounting. 
  • Very easy to relate and talk to.
  • Offers great advice on strategy, particularly co-ordinating multiple entities for tax-effectiveness.

Services offered (but not limited to): Tax and accounting, CFO/Financial Control

B.I.T. Accountants

Overview:

What customers like about B.I.T. Accountants:

  • Always very helpful and happy to assist in any kind of questions.
  • Actually take the time to get to clients and not just treat them as “business”.
  • They are very thorough and explain what you can and can’t claim.
  • Fees are very reasonable.

Services offered (but not limited to): Audit service, accounting service, business support, self managed super funds.

Carbon Group

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Have a wealth of knowledge and a very skilled team.
  • Friendly, prompt and informative service.
  • Their national reach allows for help all over Australia. 
  • Goes the extra mile to find ways small businesses can improve and save on tax. 
  • Offers cloud-based book-keeping by qualified accountants on their website: Book-Keeping

Services offered (but not limited to): Business financials and tax returns, tax planning, business planning and structure.

Walker Hill

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Considered and pragmatic advice.
  • Highly professional and personable.
  • Knowledgeable in the financial service industry.

Services offered (but not limited to): Accounting, digital marketing, finance.

Opulento Business Services

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Go above and beyond during each tax submission.
  • Incredibly helpful and efficient with all of the clients tax issues.
  • Pleasant, friendly, and professional service.
  • Really care about their clients and look for opportunities to help make client life easier.
  • Informative and always up to date on any changes.

Services offered (but not limited to): Tax, business advisory, super & SMSF, online and cloud accounting.

Numbers Guru

Overview:

What customers like about Numbers Guru:

  • Very professional and knowledgeable.
  • Extremely polite in nature and work ethic is commendable.
  • Professional and straightforward advice, on all things tax.
  • Knows the Xero accounting system inside and out.

Services offered (but not limited to): Tax, GST, bookkeeping and payroll, business accounting solutions, cloud solutions.

Power 2 – Accounting & Financial Advice

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Always a friendly experience.
  • Very knowledgeable but always able to explain things to clients in a clear and simple way.
  • Helping clients to manage their financial affairs from overseas with a down to earth, professional and friendly service.

Services offered (but not limited to): Business/Individual tax planning/returns, financial planning, SMSF, asset protection.

Taggart & Partners

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Clear concise communication.
  • Great to deal with, very professional and quick to respond to all client questions.
  • Goes above and beyond in every aspect. 
  • Understand the varying needs of individual circumstances and how best manage them

Services offered (but not limited to): Tax accounting, tax advisory, business growth advice, cash flow improvement strategies.

Meritous Accounting & Advisory (data does not match with links: Flora)

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Answers client questions clearly. 
  • Gives helpful advice determining the appropriate deductions and offsets in tax returns.
  • Efficient, effective and has a razor sharp focus on great client outcomes.
  • Takes time to explain and achieve the desired outcome.
  • Excellent service, valuable advice and reasonable prices.

Services offered (but not limited to): Tax return and special purpose financials for SMEs, tax planning advice, book-keeping services and system set-up with Xero.

AL & CO Accountants 

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Excellent professional advice.
  • Responsive to any questions, professional and knowledgeable.
  • Hassle-free, takes care of every financial need of the client.
  • Reasonable pricing.

Services offered (but not limited to): Tax Returns – individual & business, financial statements, business structures and advice.

Valles Accountants

Overview:

What customers like:

  • Provides a supportive environment, quick turnarounds and clear communication.
  • Handles accounts with the highest integrity, efficiency, and personal care.
  • Well-connected with the national digital asset community.
  • Shows genuine interest in clients as a person.
  • Their website has a very useful resource page with a tax rate table and client documentation download section – Resources.

Services offered (but not limited to): Accounting/taxation, corporate advisory and consultation, cryptocurrency accountant, NFT accountant.