Top Accounting Firms for Small Businesses in Australia: A Complete Guide with Expert Picks

Running a small business in Australia nowadays entails more financial responsibilities than ever before. From stringent ATO compliance requirements to growing pressure on payroll accuracy, BAS lodgement, and cashflow management, business owners are expected to keep things running with the same level of accuracy as a finance department, whilst still dealing with day-to-day operations. That's why so many small businesses now rely on professional accounting firms to help them keep their books clean, compliant, and out of trouble.

On top of that, Australian SMEs are rapidly adopting digital tools. Cloud accounting, automated bookkeeping, and integrated payroll systems have changed the way financial tasks are handled. This has changed, and the door is open to accounting firms that outsource to tech firms, offering a much quicker turnaround, fixed-fee pricing, and specialised support for small business accounting practices, designed to save time and reduce stress.

This guide sheds some light on that decision-making process. Whether you're a sole trader, startup, or growing small business, using the correct accounting partner can have a direct influence on your finances and the growth of your industry over the long term. Below, you'll find a detailed breakdown of what small businesses expect from accounting firms today, followed by our curated list of the Best 8 Accounting firms for Small Businesses in Australia for 2025.

What Small Businesses Expect from Accounting Firms Today?

Australian small businesses have been more certain of their expectation than ever before. They have an appetite for accountants who not only keep up to date with tax and compliance but are also strategic partners, helping them make smarter financial decisions, generate the proper cash flow, and stay ahead of regulations. The following are core industry expectations for 2026.

Accurate and Compliant Financial Reporting

Small businesses use accountants to ensure their financial records are accurate, up to date, and compliant with ATO standards. This involves the correct preparation and lodgement of BAS, IAS, GST Reports, Payroll lodgement, and year-end Tax, etc. With penalties becoming more stringent and an increase in audit activity, businesses want zero errors - and they seek companies that can marry expertise with reliable accounting systems to deliver such accuracy every single time.

Transparent and Cost-Effective Pricing Models

The traditional hourly billing is becoming unpopular among small business owners. Instead, they favour accounting firms that offer fixed monthly packages, predictable fees, and no surprises. Transparent pricing gives SMEs the confidence to budget and make the right choices in selecting the level of support they require, without fear of fluctuating costs.

End-to-End Accounting Services for Small Businesses

Most small businesses prefer to work with firms that can make all of this happen - from bookkeeping, payroll, and BAS to tax planning, financial reporting, and advisory services, even virtual CFO support. A well-rounded offering helps save time, use fewer vendors, and keep all financial data connected and accurate. In 2025, the "one-stop-shop" expectation becomes the norm.

Cloud-Based Accounting Tools and Automation

With the advent of platforms such as Xero, MYOB, and QuickBooks, small businesses expect their accountants to use Cloud-based software that simplifies collaboration, eliminates paperwork, and provides real-time financial visibility. Automation - such as bank feeds, invoice matching, and payroll syncing - is used to minimize manual errors and help lower administrative workload, which can make accounting a much faster and more efficient process for both the firm and the client.

Top Accounting Firms for Small Businesses in Australia 

Below is the updated list of our top eight accounting firms that continue to deliver solid results for Australian small businesses. These firms are distinguished by their expertise, use of technology, quality of service, affordability, and small-business orientation.

1. Aone Outsourcing

Aone Outsourcing is unique in the way it provides end-to-end small business accounting support of bookkeeping, payroll, BAS, Tax, and CFO-level insight under one roof. Their use of tech-enabled workflows, fixed fees, and specialists helps SMEs manage their finances with ease. For growing businesses looking for accuracy, speed, and strategic advice, Aone is the most trusted choice.

2. Pop Business

Pop Business has been a favourite among today's small businesses thanks to its digital-first approach and transparent pricing. Their streamlined platform enables clients to easily manage their bookkeeping, tax, and payroll while remaining connected with a responsive accounting team. It's a good option for startups and small businesses looking for rapid turnaround and easy-to-provide tech-driven support.

3. Kelly+Partners Accounting

Kelly+Partners is known for its personalised, partner-led model (which gives small businesses a high level of attention and strategic financial advice). Using robust expertise in tax, compliance, and advisory, they help business owners become more profitable and remain compliant. Their network of specialist accountants makes them a trusted option for SMEs seeking hands-on guidance.

4. Liston Newton Advisory

Liston Newton Advisory has the traditional accounting depth, but also excellent advisory capabilities, and its staff member, Liston, creates a "triple bottom line" approach for small-business strategies that enables more intelligent long-term decision-making. Their team adopts the holistic approach - covering tax, bookkeeping, payroll, and business planning - to aid the growth at every stage. They're ideal for SMEs that need both compliance and a way to strive for strategic direction.

5. Hnry

Hnry specialises in helping sole traders, freelancers, and contractors by automating tax, invoicing, and payroll into a single, simple service. Their real-time tax calculations and automatic lodgement take the stress out of managing compliance independently. For micro and solo businesses, Hnry is an unbeatable, convenient, and cheap package.

6. Maddern Financial

Maddern Financial is a boutique accounting and wealth service provider to small businesses and professionals. Their strength is that these financial advisors provide combined solutions of tax, financial planning, and business advisory under one roof. Small companies seeking greater financial strategy - and not just compliance - benefit best from their personalised approach.

7. Wilson Pateras

Wilson Pateras is known for its highly personalised accounting services and for maintaining good client relationships. They provide end-to-end support in bookkeeping, tax, advisory, and wealth management, among others, and thus serve as a beneficial all-around partner for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). They pay attention to detail, and proactive guidance pushes them a notch higher than traditional firms.

8. RBK Advisory

RBK Advisory combines innovative cloud accounting software with an easy-to-use service. They specialise in assisting small businesses to simplify financial processes, improve cash flow, and set the stage for compliance without unnecessary complexity. As they are a B-Corp-certified firm, they are also attractive to SMEs interested in sustainable and ethical business practices.
 

Key Factors to Consider When Selecting an Accounting Firm

Choosing the right accounting partner can affect your cash flow, compliance, and long-term business stability. Small businesses are prone to ignoring critical factors that directly affect business growth, such as industry knowledge or turnaround time. Here's what you have to judge before making a decision.

Understand the Needs of Your Small Business

Every small business has different accountancy requirements, dependent on whether you're a sole trader, a partnership, or a company. A tradie may require payroll & BAS support, but an online retailer may need inventory reconciliation & sales platform integrations. Knowing your exact needs makes you avoid paying for services that you won't use.

Service Scope and Expertise

A fantastic accounting firm should provide more than your basic tax returns - they need to support you in compliance, advisory, payroll, virtual CFO insights, and automation. The more generalist their knowledge, the more easily they can grow without hiring more staff. Comprehensive service depth also ensures proactive guidance rather than a reactive fix.

Costs and Pricing Transparency

Many companies still charge by the hour, leaving costs in the air for SMEs struggling with already tight budgets. Fixed-fee packages are becoming the package of choice in Australia due to their clarity, consistency, and no-surprise invoices. Fair pricing for small businesses ranges from essential BAS packages to full bookkeeping + advisory packages.

Industry Experience & Case Study

Your accountant should know how your business model goes-are you in trades, hospitality, eCommerce, consulting, or retail? Firms that know your industry can also alert you to risks early, optimize your margins, and advise you with tried-and-tested ways. Case studies and client stories showcase the firm's ability to solve real-world problems.

Outsourced Accounting vs Traditional Accounting Firms

Small businesses often compare outsourced models with local accountants to find the best model for them. Understanding how they each work - as well as their pros and cons - to select a solution in line with your budget, your workload, and long-term goals.

Which Option Is Better for Small Businesses?

If your business priorities include saving money, getting faster turnarounds, and getting data from your tech, outsourced accounting offers better value. But if you require regular face-to-face consultations or you're in a small sector such as a regional sector, then a local firm might better serve your needs. Ultimately, our best choice is yours - according to your complexity, growth stage, and expectations for your services.

How to Choose the Right Accounting Firm for Your Small Business?

Use this need-to-know to ensure you select an accounting partner who doesn't damage your workflow, budget, or long-term goals, long after the party ends.

Step 1: Determine Accounting Services Required

List the necessities - bookkeeping, BAS, payroll, tax planning, advisory, or CFO support. Having clear priorities will help you avoid overspending or missing out on essential services.

Step 2: Evaluate Their Knowledge of Small Business

SMEs need someone hands-on and flexible, which not all accountants are. Choose companies that specialize in small businesses, workflow needs, and even compliance concerns.

Step 3: Comparison of Pricing Models

Know whether they charge by the hour or offer a monthly package at a fixed cost. Transparent pricing is a saviour against unexpected bills and helps with budgeting.

Step 4: Evaluate Technology/ Tools Used

Make sure the firm has cloud software such as Xero or MYOB for effective, streamlined, and collaborative accounting.

Step 5: Enquire about Reporting and Turnaround Times

You need good planning for payroll, BAS, and monthly reporting timelines. The outcomes are improved turnaround, decision-making, and cash Flow Visibility.

Step 6: Read Testimonials and Case Studies

Real-life success stories are a way to find out whether the firm can handle businesses like yours and deliver results.

Step 7: Request a Discovery Call Before Signing

A quick call helps you gauge communication, how quickly they respond, and whether their team understands your business.

Wrapping Up!

Choosing who your accounting partner will be in the case of a small business is one of the most critical choices for a small company. A good and reliable accountant not only ensures compliance but also helps improve cash flow and profitability and guides you confidently through the transition to growth.

Whether you choose an outsourced partner or a traditional firm, focus on in-depth service, accountability, industry knowledge, and transparent pricing. When you consider the right factors, your accountant is your partner for life in terms of financial clarity and sustainable business growth.

FAQs

How much do accounting firms charge small businesses in Australia?

Small-business accounting could cost between $150 and $500 a month for basic bookkeeping; $300 to $700 for BAS and GST; and $600 to $ 1,200 for complete accounting packages. Advisory or CFO services are usually additional, and the cost varies depending on the scope.

Should I hire a local accountant or an outsourced firm?

Local accountants offer face-to-face meetings and strong community knowledge, whereas outsourced accountants offer lower costs, faster delivery, and greater expertise. The answer is in what you can afford, how you like to communicate, and how complicated you are.

What accounting software do small-business firms use most?

Xero is the most popular among Australian SMEs, followed by MYOB and QuickBooks. Each has integrations with apps that automate payroll, billing, and reporting.

Can an accounting firm handle my payroll, too?

Yes. Most firms now provide end-to-end payroll services, including employee onboarding, STP reporting, superannuation, and compliance management.

How do I switch from one accounting firm to another?

Switching is easy: just select your new accountant, notify the old one, request a records handover, update your agent on the demerit notification, and migrate your access to the accounting software. The new firm typically coordinates the transition for you.