BOOKKEEPING 24/7 Unlimited
Bookkeeping Support. Guaranteed.

  • Our bookkeepers will process all your accounts payable / receivable and bank reconciliations.
  • We ensure you are always up to date with your ATO obligations.
  • Unlimited support, for a fixed monthly fee, all backed by our guarantee.
  • We will represent you in the case of any ATO audits.

Call our free business helpline to get started.

What is bookkeeping?

The amount of tax an Australian business should pay depends on various factors, including the type of business structure, the level of taxable income, eligible deductions, and any applicable tax credits or concessions.

For the 23-24 Financial Year the standard company tax rate is 30%. Small Businesses are eligible for a 25% company tax rate provided they are a base rate entity.

What is bookkeeping?

The amount of tax an Australian business should pay depends on various factors, including the type of business structure, the level of taxable income, eligible deductions, and any applicable tax credits or concessions.

For the 23-24 Financial Year the standard company tax rate is 30%. Small Businesses are eligible for a 25% company tax rate provided they are a base rate entity.

What does a bookkeeper do?

A bookkeeper is the financial guardian of a business, meticulously recording, organising, and managing its financial transactions. They ensure that all financial records are accurate and up-to-date, offering insights into a company’s financial health and helping it make informed decisions. In short, a bookkeeper is the backbone of financial stability, providing businesses with the clarity and compliance they need to thrive.

Their typical responsibilities include:

Record Keeping

Bookkeepers record every financial transaction, such as sales, purchases, payroll, and expenses, into an accounting system. They ensure that all transactions are accurately recorded.

Bank Reconciliation

Bookkeepers reconcile bank statements with the company’s financial records to identify any discrepancies, ensuring that the company’s cash flow is accurate.

Accounts Receivable and Payable

They manage accounts receivable by tracking customer payments and accounts payable by overseeing vendor bills and payments.

Payroll Processing

Many bookkeepers handle payroll, including calculating employee wages, preparing pay runs, and ensuring compliance with tax laws.

Financial Reporting

They generate financial reports, such as income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements, to help business owners make informed decisions.

Tax Compliance

Bookkeepers ensure that all financial records are in order, helping businesses meet their tax obligations and avoid penalties.

Capital Gains Tax (CGT)

If you sell assets, such as property or shares, you may be liable to pay CGT on any capital gain. Small business concessions may apply in certain circumstances.

Stamp Duty

In some cases, businesses may be subject to stamp duty, which is a tax on certain transactions and documents.

At Retinue we offer bookkeeping as part of our standard service, which is included alongside a 24/7 accounting team and monthly reporting.

What’s the difference between a bookkeeper and an accountant?

While bookkeepers and accountants share similar financial responsibilities, the main differences between accountants and bookkeepers involve the scope of financial services they offer and their qualifications.

Qualifications

Bookkeepers typically hold a Certificate IV in Bookkeeping or a similar qualification, while accountants require a bachelor’s degree and professional certification, such as being a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA) or a Chartered Accountant (CA).

Scope of Work

Bookkeepers focus on day-to-day financial tasks, including data entry, reconciliation, and reporting. Accountants provide broader financial services, including tax planning, financial analysis, and audit support.

Regulations

In Australia, bookkeepers are not authorised to provide tax or financial advice, while accountants are subject to stricter regulatory oversight and can offer a wider range of financial services.

Reporting

Accountants typically review and analyse the financial data provided by bookkeepers to offer strategic financial advice and make high-level financial decisions.

Accountants typically review and analyse the financial data provided by bookkeepers to offer strategic financial advice and make high-level financial decisions.

24/7 Tax, Bookkeeping and Payroll* support. Guaranteed.

We envisage a future where every small business can get the right advice, at the right time, at the right price.

Call our free business helpline now.

24/7 Tax, Bookkeeping and Payroll* support. Guaranteed.

We envisage a future where every small business can get the right advice, at the right time, at the right price.

Call our free business helpline now.

How much do
bookkeepers charge?

The hourly rate of a bookkeeper can vary widely. While there is no one-size-fits-all formula, the following elements are typically considered in bookkeeper fees:

Experience and Qualification

A bookkeeper’s level of experience and qualifications significantly influence their hourly rate. Those with more years in the field or advanced certifications may charge higher rates.

Scope of Service

The complexity of the bookkeeping tasks you require can affect the rate. Some bookkeepers may offer more specialised services or may charge more for their expertise.

Industry Knowledge

If a bookkeeper has experience in a particular industry, they may charge more for their specialised knowledge and understanding of industry-specific financial processes.

Software Proficiency

Proficiency in accounting and bookkeeping software can also influence the rate. A bookkeeper who is well-versed in a variety of software platforms may command a higher rate.

Overhead Costs

A bookkeeper’s overhead costs, including office space, utilities, and software subscriptions, may be factored into their hourly rate.

Demand and Availability

The demand for a bookkeeper’s services and their availability can also impact their rate. A highly sought-after bookkeeper may charge more.

As a small business owner it can be difficult to select the most cost-effective bookkeeping service for your business. But at Retinue, we don’t believe in an hourly-based billing model. You should have certainty and transparency around the cost of important services such as bookkeeping and accounting. That’s why we offer a fixed fee subscription model with no hidden fees or extra costs.

How much do
bookkeepers charge?

The hourly rate of a bookkeeper can vary widely. While there is no one-size-fits-all formula, the following elements are typically considered in bookkeeper fees:

Experience and Qualification

A bookkeeper’s level of experience and qualifications significantly influence their hourly rate. Those with more years in the field or advanced certifications may charge higher rates.

Scope of Service

The complexity of the bookkeeping tasks you require can affect the rate. Some bookkeepers may offer more specialised services or may charge more for their expertise.

Industry Knowledge

If a bookkeeper has experience in a particular industry, they may charge more for their specialised knowledge and understanding of industry-specific financial processes.

Software Proficiency

Proficiency in accounting and bookkeeping software can also influence the rate. A bookkeeper who is well-versed in a variety of software platforms may command a higher rate.

Overhead Costs

A bookkeeper’s overhead costs, including office space, utilities, and software subscriptions, may be factored into their hourly rate.

Demand and Availability

The demand for a bookkeeper’s services and their availability can also impact their rate. A highly sought-after bookkeeper may charge more.

As a small business owner it can be difficult to select the most cost-effective bookkeeping service for your business. But at Retinue, we don’t believe in an hourly-based billing model. You should have certainty and transparency around the cost of important services such as bookkeeping and accounting. That’s why we offer a fixed fee subscription model with no hidden fees or extra costs.

Resources

Download our free e-guides and resources to keep you up to date on your tax, bookkeeping and payroll obligations*

FAQ

What is bookkeeping and why is it essential for my business?

Bookkeeping is the process of recording and organising financial transactions for a business. It is essential for several reasons:

• It helps you track your business’s financial health and performance.
• Accurate bookkeeping is necessary for compliance with tax regulations.
• It provides a clear picture of your cash flow, making it easier to manage finances.
• It facilitates informed decision-making and helps secure financing or investment.

Bookkeeping is the process of recording and organising financial transactions for a business. It is essential for several reasons:

• It helps you track your business’s financial health and performance.
• Accurate bookkeeping is necessary for compliance with tax regulations.
• It provides a clear picture of your cash flow, making it easier to manage finances.
• It facilitates informed decision-making and helps secure financing or investment.

Bookkeeping is the process of recording and organising financial transactions for a business. It is essential for several reasons:

• It helps you track your business’s financial health and performance.
• Accurate bookkeeping is necessary for compliance with tax regulations.
• It provides a clear picture of your cash flow, making it easier to manage finances.
• It facilitates informed decision-making and helps secure financing or investment.

Get help when you need it, so you can spend more time achieving your business goals

*Retinue’s payroll service includes the processing of hours and wages rates provided by you. We do not determine award rates for your employees or provide advice on the correct employment status of your employees. It is your responsibility to ensure that your employees are paid correctly and we recommend obtaining advice from specialised employment relations experts.