In Melbourne’s fast-moving business landscape, having your finances in order isn’t a luxury—it’s essential. Whether you’re running a local café in Fitzroy, managing a plumbing business in the eastern suburbs, or scaling a tech startup in the CBD, effective bookkeeping is the key to managing compliance, cash flow, and growth.
This complete guide to Melbourne bookkeeping services will walk you through what’s typically included, how much you can expect to pay, and how to choose the right package based on your industry and business needs.
Why Your Business Needs Professional Bookkeeping
Bookkeeping is more than just entering transactions into accounting software. It’s the foundation for understanding your financial health, meeting ATO obligations, and making confident business decisions. Many Melbourne businesses delay hiring a bookkeeper until they’re facing overdue BAS statements, payroll issues, or tax audits—by then, it’s damage control.
Engaging a professional bookkeeper early saves you time, reduces errors, and ensures you stay compliant with ever-changing tax and payroll laws in Australia.
Typical Pricing Models for Bookkeeping in Melbourne
Bookkeeping costs in Melbourne vary based on your business size, transaction volume, and the level of service you need. Here are the most common pricing structures:
1. Hourly Rates
Most suitable for casual or ad hoc bookkeeping work (e.g., catching up on a backlog).
- Rates range: $50–$100/hour
- Pros: Pay only for time worked
- Cons: Hard to predict monthly costs
2. Fixed Monthly Packages
Ideal for ongoing support, with set inclusions each month (e.g., reconciliations, BAS, payroll).
- Typical cost: $250–$2,000/month
- Depends on:
- Number of bank accounts
- Staff on payroll
- Frequency of reporting
- Level of advisory included
- Number of bank accounts
3. Project-Based Pricing
Useful for one-off services like Xero or MYOB setup, historical cleanups, or end-of-year reconciliations.
- Typical range: $500–$5,000 depending on scope
4. Full-Service Virtual Bookkeeping
Often offered by cloud-based providers, this includes bookkeeping, payroll, and BAS with digital access.
- Starts around: $400/month for small businesses
- Often includes integrations with software like Xero, QuickBooks, or MYOB.
If you’re a startup or sole trader, basic packages can cost less. Larger businesses or those needing more frequent reporting and compliance support may pay more.
What Services Are Included in Melbourne Bookkeeping Packages?
While each bookkeeper or firm will offer different levels of service, most Melbourne bookkeeping services include the following:
1. Bank Reconciliation
Matching bank transactions to accounting records to ensure nothing is missed or duplicated.
2. BAS Lodgment
Registered BAS agents handle Business Activity Statement preparation and submission to the ATO. This includes tracking GST, PAYG withholding, and instalments.
3. Payroll Processing
- Employee onboarding
- PAYG tax calculations
- Superannuation payments
- Single Touch Payroll (STP) reporting
- Leave tracking
4. Accounts Payable & Receivable
- Invoicing and follow-ups
- Supplier payments
- Expense management
5. Financial Reporting
- Profit and Loss statements
- Balance sheets
- Cash flow statements
- Custom reports based on your KPIs
6. Cloud Accounting Support
Setup and ongoing support for platforms like:
- Xero
- MYOB
- QuickBooks
- Receipt Bank / Dext
Many Melbourne bookkeepers also offer end-of-year support for tax accountants, preparing your books for easy tax return filing.
Industry-Specific Bookkeeping in Melbourne
Not all bookkeeping is created equal. Different industries require specific knowledge, software, and reporting styles. Here’s what to expect based on your business type:
Retail
- Integration with POS systems (e.g., Vend, Shopify)
- Tracking inventory and cost of goods sold
- Managing seasonal fluctuations in revenue
- Cash vs card sales reconciliation
Hospitality
- Tip distribution
- Award rate payroll complexities
- Weekly rosters tied to payroll
- Supplier payment cycles (e.g., food/beverage deliveries)
Trades and Construction
- Project-based costing
- Subcontractor payments and ABN tracking
- Construction Industry Scheme (if applicable)
- Job profitability analysis
- Use of job management tools (e.g., Tradify, SimPRO)
Professional Services
- Time-based billing
- Expense reimbursements
- Consulting revenue management
- Fixed vs variable retainers tracking
Startups
- Investor reporting (burn rate, runway)
- R&D tax incentive tracking
- Cloud integrations (Stripe, PayPal, etc.)
- Custom dashboards for key metrics
When hiring a bookkeeper in Melbourne, look for one with direct experience in your industry. It saves time and reduces the risk of errors.
What to Look for in a Melbourne Bookkeeper
Beyond pricing and services, here’s what separates a good bookkeeper from a great one:
✅ Registered BAS Agent
Only registered BAS agents are legally allowed to lodge BAS with the ATO on your behalf.
✅ Experience with Your Software
Ensure they’re certified in your accounting platform (Xero, MYOB, QuickBooks, etc.).
✅ Local Knowledge
Melbourne-specific tax rules, grants (like the Victorian Business Support Fund), and award rates can vary. Local experience matters.
✅ Clear Communication
Your bookkeeper should explain financials in plain English and keep you updated.
✅ Scalability
If you’re growing, can they scale with you or refer you to a virtual CFO service?
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right bookkeeping services in Melbourne is a strategic move that impacts your day-to-day operations and long-term growth. Whether you’re a solo tradie, a family-run café, or an expanding tech business, a good bookkeeper gives you more than clean records—they give you peace of mind.
Take the time to evaluate packages, compare pricing, and speak with a few providers. When your books are in order, your business runs smoother—and your future looks clearer.