Bookkeeping refers to the process of recording and organising financial transactions for a business. It forms the foundation of sound financial management and supports decision-making, reporting obligations, and compliance with Australian tax and regulatory standards. Whether managed in-house or through a third-party service, consistent and accurate bookkeeping can influence a business’s cash flow, budgeting, and long-term planning. This guide explains what bookkeeping means in the Australian business context and offers 20 practical tips to strengthen financial control, reduce risk, and stay audit-ready.

What Is Bookkeeping in Accounting?

Bookkeeping in accounting is the practice of recording, organising, and maintaining a business’s financial transactions to support accurate reporting and compliance. It forms part of the accounting cycle and focuses on capturing day-to-day activity for internal tracking and external reporting.

Bookkeeping acts as the data entry stage of the broader accounting system. While accounting interprets and analyses financial trends, bookkeeping ensures the underlying data is clean, chronological, and categorised correctly. Common tasks include documenting payments received, issuing invoices, managing payroll records, updating cash books, and reconciling accounts.

In Australia, bookkeeping aligns with local reporting obligations such as Business Activity Statements (BAS), payroll tax, and superannuation. Maintaining accurate financial records is essential for meeting ATO requirements, planning cash flow, and preparing end-of-year financial statements. Bookkeeping software, such as Xero or MYOB, is widely used to automate tasks and reduce errors in manual entry.

What Is the History & Evolution of Bookkeeping?

Bookkeeping dates back over 7,000 years, with early examples found in Mesopotamian clay tablets used by merchants to track goods and livestock. The system matured significantly during the Italian Renaissance, when double-entry bookkeeping was formalised in the 15th century.

Luca Pacioli, a Franciscan friar and mathematician, is widely recognised for documenting the first known system of double-entry bookkeeping in his 1494 publication Summa de Arithmetica. This method, where every financial entry affects at least two accounts, became the foundation of modern bookkeeping and is still used today.

Over centuries, bookkeeping shifted from physical ledger books to spreadsheets and, eventually, digital platforms. In Australia, the adoption of cloud-based accounting software has made real-time bookkeeping possible for businesses of all sizes. Bookkeepers now use automation to manage bank feeds, track GST obligations, and prepare reports in line with ATO compliance requirements.

From ancient ledgers to cloud systems like Xero, bookkeeping has evolved into a precise, software-driven practice that supports strategic business planning and financial transparency.

What Is the Process of Bookkeeping?

The bookkeeping process involves identifying, recording, and organising financial transactions in a consistent and traceable format. This structured method supports accurate reporting, business planning, and compliance with Australian tax obligations. The process of bookkeeping follows these steps:

1. Identify financial transactions
   Each business activity with a financial impact, such as sales, purchases, loan repayments, wages, or asset acquisitions, is recognised as a transaction to be recorded.
   
2. Record transactions in a journal
   Recording transactions in bookkeeping means entering the details into a journal or digital system, either manually or through software like Xero.
   
   • To record entries in bookkeeping, you need to capture the date, transaction type, account affected (such as revenue, expense, asset, or liability), amount, and source document reference.
     
   • Each entry must follow a consistent format and be backed by receipts, invoices, or bank statements.
     
3. Post to the general ledger
   Journal entries are transferred to their respective ledger accounts. For instance, a purchase of office supplies will be posted under the “Office Expenses” ledger and affect the cash or accounts payable ledger.
   
4. Reconcile accounts
   Regular reconciliation compares ledger balances with external statements, such as bank records, to ensure accuracy. Discrepancies are flagged and corrected, helping avoid reporting errors.
   
5. Prepare a trial balance
   A trial balance checks that total debits equal total credits across all accounts. This step helps identify mistakes and serves as a checkpoint before preparing financial reports.
   
6. Generate financial reports
   Once balances are confirmed, you can generate reports like profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow summaries—crucial for business analysis and BAS lodgement.
   
7. Maintain records for compliance
   In Australia, businesses are required to keep accurate bookkeeping records for at least five years, including source documents and digital entries. Good recordkeeping supports ATO audits, year-end reporting, and long-term forecasting.

What Are the Types of Bookkeeping for Small Businesses?

There are four main types of bookkeeping used by small businesses: single-entry, double-entry, cash-based, and accrual-based bookkeeping. Each type provides a different way to track financial transactions depending on the size and needs of the business.

1. Single-entry bookkeeping
   This basic method records each transaction once, usually as income or expense. It’s used by very small or cash-based businesses and may involve spreadsheets or simple software. It does not track assets or liabilities comprehensively.
   
2. Double-entry bookkeeping
   Every transaction is recorded in two accounts, debit and credit. This method provides a more complete view of financial position and helps detect errors. It’s widely used by businesses that need balance sheets, financial reports, or external audits.
   
3. Cash-based bookkeeping
   Transactions are recorded only when money changes hands. Income is documented when received, and expenses are recorded when paid. This system aligns closely with bank activity and is suited to sole traders or small operations with simple cash flow.
   
4. Accrual-based bookkeeping
   Income and expenses are recorded when earned or incurred, not when paid. This gives a more accurate view of a business’s financial health but requires more careful tracking of accounts receivable and payable.

What Is a Bookkeeping Checklist for Small Businesses?

A bookkeeping checklist is a step-by-step list of tasks that helps small businesses stay on top of financial recordkeeping, reporting, and compliance. Using a regular checklist ensures that no detail is missed and that obligations are met on time. A standard bookkeeping checklist for small businesses may include:

• Daily
  
  • Record all income and expenses
    
  • Issue and file receipts or invoices
    
  • Check bank feeds or transaction alerts
    
• Weekly
  
  • Reconcile bank transactions with ledger entries
    
  • Review aged receivables and payables
    
  • Backup financial data (if not automated)
    
• Monthly
  
  • Prepare a profit and loss statement
    
  • Review cash flow activity
    
  • Lodge payroll obligations (STP)
    
  • Verify GST collected and paid
    
• Quarterly
  
  • Lodge Business Activity Statement (BAS)
    
  • Review financial goals vs. performance
    
  • Update or adjust the budget
    
• Annually
  
  • Finalise year-end accounts
    
  • Prepare documents for your accountant
    
  • Archive the previous financial year’s records
    
  • Conduct a review of bookkeeping processes and software

What Does a Bookkeeper Do?

A bookkeeper manages the recording and organisation of a business’s financial transactions. They create and maintain accurate financial records to support reporting, decision-making, and tax compliance. Core responsibilities of a bookkeeper include:

• Transaction entry: Recording income, expenses, payroll, and capital movements.
  
• Bank reconciliation: Matching internal records with external bank statements to identify errors or missed entries.
  
• Accounts receivable and payable: Tracking outstanding invoices and due bills, and scheduling payments or follow-ups.
  
• Payroll management: Calculating wages, processing superannuation, and ensuring STP (Single Touch Payroll) compliance.
  
• BAS preparation: Collating and submitting Business Activity Statements for GST, PAYG, and other tax obligations.
  
• Reporting: Creating financial summaries such as profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow reports.
  
• Recordkeeping: Storing source documents (e.g. receipts, contracts) and maintaining audit-ready records in line with ATO requirements.

What Skills Should Every Bookkeeper Have?

A competent bookkeeper should have strong attention to detail, a working knowledge of accounting software, and a good understanding of Australian tax and payroll regulations. Here are the skills and qualifications:

• Numeracy and accuracy: Comfort with numbers and ability to identify discrepancies quickly.
  
• Software proficiency: Familiarity with platforms like Xero, MYOB, QuickBooks, or Excel.
  
• Knowledge of GST and BAS: Understanding how to manage business tax requirements and reporting schedules.
  
• Time management: Ability to meet deadlines, especially for BAS, payroll, and end-of-month reporting.
  
• Organisation and recordkeeping: Keeping financial data accessible, up-to-date, and audit-ready.

In Australia, bookkeepers who provide BAS services must be registered BAS agents with the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB). This requires a relevant Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping plus supervised experience and continuing professional development (CPD). While a university degree is not required, holding formal qualifications improves trust and ensures the bookkeeper is trained in current legislation and digital tools.

What Is the Difference Between Bookkeeping and Accounting?

Bookkeeping and accounting are closely related but serve different purposes within a business’s financial system. Bookkeeping focuses on recording day-to-day transactions, while accounting involves interpreting and analysing those records to support business decisions and compliance. The table below outlines how these two functions differ:

Bookkeepers keep financial data up to date and ready for interpretation. Accountants use that data to assess business performance, prepare tax returns, and provide strategic advice. Both roles are essential, and they often work closely together, especially during tax time or financial audits.

How Does Bookkeeping Relate to Tax Filing?

Bookkeeping plays a direct role in accurate and timely tax filing for Australian businesses. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) requires businesses to maintain complete financial records that support BAS lodgements, tax returns, and payroll obligations.

Accurate bookkeeping ensures that all income, expenses, GST, PAYG withholding, and superannuation contributions are recorded properly. These records form the basis of Business Activity Statements (BAS), which most businesses must lodge monthly or quarterly.

Bookkeeping data is also critical during end-of-year tax return preparation. It helps accountants calculate taxable income, claim eligible deductions, and ensure compliance with ATO reporting standards. Errors or gaps in bookkeeping can result in missed claims, incorrect tax payments, or audit risks.

What Are the Legal Requirements for Bookkeeping in Australia?

Australian businesses must keep accurate and accessible financial records for at least five years to meet legal obligations set by the ATO and the Corporations Act 2001. This applies to sole traders, partnerships, companies, and trusts. The legal requirements include:

• Record retention: Businesses must store all records relating to income, expenses, GST, wages, superannuation, and asset purchases for a minimum of five years. These can be digital or paper-based, but must be legible and retrievable.
  
• GST compliance: If registered for GST, businesses must record all taxable sales, GST paid, and GST collected. These records support accurate BAS reporting.
  
• Payroll records: Employers must maintain wage records, timesheets, PAYG summaries, and superannuation payment evidence to meet Fair Work and Superannuation Guarantee compliance.
  
• Registered agents: Bookkeepers who provide BAS services must be registered with the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB) and meet professional development standards.

Failure to meet legal bookkeeping requirements can lead to penalties, backdated tax liabilities, or disqualification from government support programs. Staying compliant protects both financial stability and business continuity.

What Are the Benefits of Bookkeeping?

Bookkeeping offers several advantages for businesses in Australia. Here are five practical benefits:

1. Better cash flow visibility
   Tracking income and expenses daily helps businesses understand their current financial position and manage outgoings effectively.
   
2. ATO compliance
   Accurate records support timely BAS lodgements, GST reporting, and tax returns, reducing audit risk.
   
3. Informed decision-making
   Up-to-date financial data helps guide pricing, staffing, purchasing, and growth decisions.
   
4. Faster loan approvals
   Lenders often require current financial statements. Organised books make it easier to access finance or investment.
   
5. Efficient year-end accounting
   Clean records reduce the time and cost involved in tax preparation and minimise last-minute errors.

What Are the Disadvantages of Bookkeeping?

While bookkeeping is essential, there are a few limitations to consider. Here are four common disadvantages:

1. Time-consuming
   Recording transactions daily can be a manual and repetitive task, especially without automation.
   
2. Risk of data entry errors
   Mistakes in transaction recording can lead to inaccurate reports or compliance issues.
   
3. Limited analysis
   Bookkeeping focuses on recording, not interpreting. It does not provide financial insights without an accountant’s input.
   
4. Cost of software or services
   Hiring a bookkeeper or subscribing to software adds to overhead costs, particularly for new or micro businesses.

What Is the Salary of A Bookkeeper?

The salary of a bookkeeper in Australia varies depending on experience, certification, and location. Most bookkeepers earn between AUD $55,000 and $75,000 per year in full-time roles.

• Entry-level bookkeepers may start around AUD $50,000 annually.
  
• Registered BAS agents or those with several years of experience can earn between AUD $70,000 and $85,000.
  
• Freelance or contract bookkeepers may charge hourly rates between AUD $40 and $80 per hour, depending on the complexity of the work and whether BAS services are included.

What Are the Benefits of Outsourcing Your Bookkeeping?

Outsourcing bookkeeping allows businesses to hand off daily financial tracking to an external provider. This option can reduce admin workload and improve accuracy without the need to hire internally. Here are five common benefits:

• More time for business operations

Outsourcing frees up time spent on transaction entry, bank reconciliations, and payroll, so you can focus on running and growing the business.

• Access to experienced professionals

External bookkeepers stay up to date with ATO compliance, payroll regulations, and cloud software. This reduces the risk of errors or missed obligations.

• Scalable support

Services can expand as your business grows—ideal for startups, sole traders, or growing companies that don’t need a full-time internal bookkeeper.

• Reduced costs

You only pay for what you need. Outsourcing avoids overhead costs like superannuation, leave entitlements, or staff training.

• Secure and cloud-based systems

Most providers use encrypted platforms like Xero or MYOB, which enable real-time reporting, remote access, and automated data backup.

How Do You Choose the Right Bookkeeping Service Provider?

Choosing the right bookkeeping service starts with identifying your business needs, compliance obligations, and preferred way of working. Consider whether you need help with daily entry, payroll, BAS lodgements, or financial reporting. When comparing providers, ask the following:

• Do they work with Australian businesses and understand ATO requirements?

• Are they registered BAS agents (if required)?

• What cloud platforms do they use (e.g. Xero, MYOB)?

• Can they grow with your business as it scales?

• How do they communicate, via email, phone, or meetings?

• What’s included in the service agreement?

The Metier Group supports Australian businesses by offering accurate, flexible, and fully compliant bookkeeping services. Whether you’re a sole trader or managing multiple entities, we help you stay on top of cash flow, compliance, and day-to-day admin so that you can focus on your clients, not your books. With experience across multiple industries and modern tools like Xero and Hubdoc, we keep your records clean, accessible, and audit-ready.

How Do I Become a Bookkeeper?

To become a bookkeeper in Australia, you need practical training, a recognised qualification, and a strong understanding of local tax rules. Many bookkeepers begin with a Certificate IV and gain experience working with small businesses or under the guidance of an accountant. Steps to become a bookkeeper:

1. Complete a Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping

This qualification is nationally recognised and meets the minimum education requirement to register as a BAS agent.

2. Gain hands-on experience

Working under a registered BAS agent or in a junior bookkeeping role helps build real-world skills.

3. Register with the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB)

If you plan to offer BAS services, registration is mandatory and includes meeting supervision and CPD requirements.

4. Stay current

Bookkeepers must keep up with ATO regulations, payroll updates, and software changes.

Here are some paid and free course options:

Paid courses:

• TAFE NSW: Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping
  
• Monarch Institute or Open Colleges: Flexible online study options
  
• Australian Bookkeepers Network: TPB-compliant training
  

Free or low-cost options:

• ATO Small Business Webinars: Covers GST, BAS, and digital tools
  
• Xero Education Portal: Offers free tutorials and software training
  
• Coursera & LinkedIn Learning: Foundational bookkeeping skills (some may offer free trials)

What Is the Best Bookkeeping Software for Small Businesses?

The best bookkeeping software depends on your business size, budget, and reporting needs. Here are five commonly used options among Australian small businesses:

1. Xero
   Cloud-based, ATO-integrated, and user-friendly. Popular for GST tracking, bank feeds, and payroll features. Strong support for BAS reporting.
   
2. MYOB Business
   Suits small to medium enterprises. Good for job tracking, inventory, and local payroll support. MYOB is well-established in the Australian market.
   
3. QuickBooks Online
   Simple dashboard with invoicing, expense tracking, and payroll. Good for sole traders or freelancers seeking real-time financial snapshots.
   
4. Reckon One
   Affordable and modular, you can add features like invoicing or bank reconciliation as needed. Strong focus on local compliance.
   
5. Rounded
   Designed for Australian freelancers and sole traders. Built-in tax estimate tracking, invoicing, and expense management.

How To Use Excel for Basic Bookkeeping

Excel can be a powerful tool for basic bookkeeping if you manage a small business or side project. It allows you to create custom templates for tracking income, expenses, and balances without relying on paid software. Here are simple ways to use Excel for bookkeeping:

• Create income and expense sheets: Use columns for date, description, category, and amount. Filter by category to see totals for marketing, travel, supplies, etc.
  
• Set up a cashbook: Maintain a running balance by using basic formulas like =SUM() and =A2-B2 to calculate cash in and out.
  
• Use pivot tables: Quickly summarise monthly totals or category spending.
  
• Automate calculations: Add formulas to calculate GST, net income, or outstanding balances automatically.
  
• Reconcile accounts: Cross-check transactions with your bank statement to spot any differences.

How Can You Integrate Bookkeeping Software with Your Business Tools?

Integrating bookkeeping software with your other business tools improves workflow, reduces manual entry, and improves reporting accuracy. Here’s how integration works and where it’s most useful:

• POS systems (e.g. Square, Vend): Sales data automatically feeds into your accounting platform, updating revenue records in real time.
  
• CRM platforms (e.g. HubSpot, Zoho): Customer invoices, payment statuses, and contact info can be synced to avoid double handling.
  
• Inventory tools (e.g. DEAR Systems, Unleashed): Stock movement is tracked in real time and reflected in the cost of goods sold or asset register.
  
• Payroll apps (e.g. KeyPay, Employment Hero): Pay runs, leave, super, and PAYG updates are pushed into the ledger for compliance.
  
• Payment gateways (e.g. Stripe, PayPal): Incoming payments are matched to invoices and automatically reconciled.

How Should Freelancers and Consultants Handle Bookkeeping?

Freelancers and consultants should maintain clear and consistent records of income, expenses, and tax obligations to manage cash flow and meet ATO requirements. Unlike larger businesses, they often manage this themselves or with limited external help. Here’s how to approach bookkeeping as a freelancer or consultant:

• Track income by client or project: Use invoicing tools (like Rounded, Xero, or Excel) to track when payments are due and received.
  
• Separate personal and business finances: Open a dedicated business bank account to have smooth tracking and reconciliation.
  
• Record all business expenses: Include software subscriptions, equipment, travel, insurance, and phone use.
  
• Set aside funds for tax and GST: Even without PAYG withholding, freelancers must plan for quarterly BAS or annual tax returns.
  
• Use simple tools: Rounded and QuickBooks offer freelancer-specific features like income summaries and estimated tax calculations.

What Are the Best Bookkeeping Tips for E-Commerce Sellers?

E-commerce bookkeeping involves tracking high volumes of transactions across platforms, payment gateways, and inventory systems. To stay accurate and tax-ready, online sellers need a consistent method personalised to digital operations. Here are six practical tips:

1. Integrate your online store with bookkeeping software
   Connect platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, or BigCommerce with Xero or QuickBooks to automate sales, fees, and refunds.
   
2. Track payment processor fees separately
   Record transaction fees from PayPal, Stripe, or Afterpay to understand your true net revenue. These fees are business expenses and affect your margins.
   
3. Record cost of goods sold (COGS) accurately
   Include product cost, shipping to warehouse, packaging, and handling fees to calculate your gross profit clearly.
   
4. Account for inventory changes regularly
   Use inventory software or scheduled stocktakes to update inventory levels and values in your accounts. Inventory is an asset that must be adjusted on your balance sheet.
   
5. Monitor tax obligations per region
   If selling internationally, understand where GST, VAT, or other sales taxes apply. For Australian sales, register for GST if turnover exceeds $75,000.
   
6. Separate personal and business purchases
   Maintain a dedicated business account for product sourcing, ads, and subscriptions like Shopify or Canva.

How Should Nonprofits and Charities Manage Bookkeeping?

Nonprofits and charities must manage bookkeeping with transparency, accountability, and compliance in mind. Unlike for-profit businesses, they track how funds are received, used, and reported to meet regulatory and donor requirements. Here are helpful  practices for nonprofit bookkeeping:

• Use fund accounting: Track income and expenses by funding source, grant, or program to show how resources are allocated and used.
  
• Separate restricted and unrestricted funds: Record income with conditions attached (e.g. grants or project donations) in separate accounts to avoid misallocation.
  
• Reconcile donations: Use donation platforms that integrate with your bookkeeping system to record payments and donor receipts in real time.
  
• Document all spending: Keep invoices, receipts, and board approvals for grant-funded activities or operational costs.
  
• Prepare for audits and reporting: Australian charities may be required to submit financial reports to the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) based on their annual revenue tier.

How Long Should You Keep Bookkeeping Records?

In Australia, businesses are legally required to keep bookkeeping records for a minimum of five years. This timeframe is set by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and applies to both digital and paper-based records.

Here’s what to keep and for how long:

• Sales and purchase records (e.g. invoices, receipts): 5 years from the date they were prepared, obtained, or when the transactions were completed.
  
• Bank statements, reconciliations, and journals: 5 years from the end of the financial year they relate to.
  
• Employee and payroll records: At least 7 years to comply with Fair Work and superannuation obligations.
  
• BAS and GST records: 5 years from the lodgement date.

What Are 20 Tips for Australian Business Owners?

Good bookkeeping habits reduce risk, improve cash flow, and support compliance with Australian tax laws. Here are 20 practical tips to help business owners stay on top of their financial records:

1. Separate business and personal accounts
   Use dedicated bank accounts and cards to improve reconciliation and GST tracking.
   
2. Record income and expenses daily
   Avoid backlog by recording transactions as they happen or via bank feed automation.
   
3. Keep receipts and invoices for all transactions
   Store them digitally using apps like Hubdoc or Dext to support deductions and audits.
   
4. Use cloud-based accounting software
   Platforms like Xero or MYOB help automate GST, payroll, and reporting tasks.
   
5. Set aside funds for tax
   Allocate a portion of each sale to a separate account to cover GST, PAYG, and income tax.
   
6. Lodge your BAS on time
   Stay up to date with quarterly BAS lodgement dates to avoid late penalties.
   
7. Back up your records regularly
   Protect financial data from loss or corruption using secure cloud storage.
   
8. Reconcile accounts weekly
   Compare bank feeds with ledger entries to identify discrepancies early.
   
9. Track your business mileage
   Keep a log of business vehicle use to support ATO claims for fuel and maintenance.
   
10. Understand GST rules
    Register if your turnover exceeds $75,000 and only claim GST on valid business expenses.
    
11. Monitor accounts receivable
    Follow up on overdue invoices to maintain healthy cash flow.
    
12. Use a consistent chart of accounts
    Set up standard categories for income, expenses, assets, and liabilities from the start.
    
13. Stay informed on ATO changes
    Subscribe to ATO updates or attend small business webinars.
    
14. Regularly review financial reports
    Analyse profit and loss, cash flow, and balance sheet monthly to spot trends.
    
15. Keep payroll records compliant
    Track hours worked, superannuation paid, and use Single Touch Payroll (STP) tools.
    
16. Schedule time each week for bookkeeping
    Block a regular time to update records and review reports.
    
17. Document all asset purchases
    Log items like vehicles, tools, or computers with their purchase date and value.
    
18. Track project-specific costs
    If working across jobs or clients, assign expenses and income to individual projects.
    
19. Use invoicing tools with reminders
    Set up automatic reminders to alert clients about unpaid invoices.
    
20. Consult a registered BAS agent or accountant when unsure
    When regulations change or records become complex, professional guidance supports compliance and avoids penalties.

Why Choose the Metier Group for Accounting & Bookkeeping Services in Australia?

Choose The Metier Group for Accounting & Bookkeeping Services in Australia to gain accurate financial records, timely BAS lodgements, and streamlined reporting. We support sole traders, SMEs, and growing companies with compliant, cloud-based bookkeeping customised to Australian tax standards. Focus on your business, we’ll manage the numbers with clarity, consistency, and confidence.

Should I Hire a Bookkeeper or Do It Myself?

You should hire a bookkeeper if your business has growing transactions, payroll, or GST obligations. While DIY bookkeeping may suit micro businesses, outsourcing improves accuracy, saves time, supports compliance, and frees you to focus on core business activities.

What can you expect from our bookkeeping services in Australia?

Our bookkeeping services offer daily transaction tracking, BAS preparation, payroll management, and cloud-based reporting. The Metier Group ensures your records stay accurate, ATO-compliant, and audit-ready, giving you confidence, clarity, and support across every stage of your business operations.

How does bookkeeping help your business?

Bookkeeping helps your business stay compliant, monitor cash flow, and prepare financial reports. It provides accurate records that support tax filing, budgeting, and financial decisions, giving you greater control over your operations and reducing the risk of unexpected expenses.

What is the cost of small business bookkeeping in Australia?

Bookkeeping costs for small businesses in Australia typically range from AUD $300 to $800 per month. Pricing varies based on services required, transaction volume, payroll needs, and BAS frequency. Hourly rates usually range between AUD $40 and $80.