Let’s be honest—money stuff isn’t exactly the fun part of running a business. Most business owners don’t dream about reconciling bank statements or lodging BAS. But getting the right help can take a huge load off your shoulders. That’s where a small business accountant in Melbourne comes in.
But how do you find the right fit? This guide covers exactly what to look for—so you don’t just hire an accountant, you hire a game-changer.
✅ They Know Your Industry (and the Headaches That Come With It)
A great advisor doesn’t need to Google what a trade license is or how hospitality margins work. You want someone who already understands the financial quirks of your industry. That way, they’re not just doing the basics—they’re giving you advice that actually fits your world.
Ask this:
“Have you worked with businesses like mine before?”
If they say yes—and give real examples—that’s a good sign.
🎓 They’re Properly Qualified (and Can Prove It)
You’d be surprised how many people say they’re qualified but don’t meet the mark. Look for someone who’s a registered tax agent in Australia. Bonus points if they’re a CPA or CA—they’ve done the extra training and follow strict ethics rules.
Red flag:
They dodge the question or can’t show proof of registration.
💬 They Speak Human, Not Accountant
The best advisors break down financial jargon in a way that makes sense. You should leave meetings feeling clearer, not more confused. If they can’t explain something simply, they probably don’t understand it well enough—or worse, they don’t care that you don’t.
Green flag:
They listen first, talk second, and explain things in plain English.
💸 They’re Clear About the Cost (No Games, No Guessing)
Money matters—especially when it comes to how much you’re spending on support. You want someone who tells you upfront what things cost and what’s included. No vague pricing. No mystery charges.
Clarify this:
- Is it a fixed monthly fee or hourly rate?
- What’s included in that price?
- Are there extra charges for meetings or quick advice?
You should never be left guessing when the invoice comes.
💻 They Use the Same Tools You Do (or Better Ones)
If your advisor is still sending spreadsheets back and forth by email, it’s time to look elsewhere. Tools like Xero, QuickBooks, and MYOB exist for a reason—they save time, reduce errors, and help you see the numbers in real time.
What to ask:
“Do you use cloud accounting platforms? Can you help me set one up?”
The right person will streamline your systems, not make things messier.
👀 They Spot Problems Before They Get Ugly
There’s a difference between someone who lodges your BAS and someone who says, “Hey, your cash flow’s dropping. Let’s talk.” You want the second kind. Proactive advisors save you stress, money, and nasty surprises.
Green flags:
- They give suggestions without being asked.
- They notice trends in your numbers.
- They bring up strategy, not just compliance.
🧰 They Build a Service Around You, Not the Other Way Around
Cookie-cutter solutions don’t work when every business has its own quirks. A solid advisor will ask detailed questions and then shape their service to match what you need—not just hand you a brochure with three pricing tiers.
Good sign:
They don’t try to upsell you. They recommend only what fits.
🌟 They’ve Got Happy Clients Who Stick Around
Anyone can say they’re great. Proof comes from what their clients say—and how long those clients stay. Ask for testimonials. Look at Google reviews. Or just ask another business owner who they use and trust.
What to check:
- Are the reviews specific, not generic?
- Do clients talk about results, not just friendliness?
- How long have they worked with their clients?
🚀 They Can Support You as You Grow
Hiring, expanding, switching structures—your business isn’t staying the same forever. You want someone who can handle the now and the future. Someone who can help you scale without having to start over with someone new.
Ask this upfront:
“If I grow into a company or start hiring, can you still support me?”
A long-term fit saves you time, money, and a whole lot of hassle down the line.
🤝 You Actually Like Talking to Them
This one gets overlooked all the time. But it’s simple: you need to feel comfortable. You’re going to be talking about money, mistakes, stress points—maybe even during tough times. If they’re condescending, unapproachable, or just rub you the wrong way, move on.
You’re looking for:
- Respect
- Clarity
- A genuine interest in your business
You don’t need to be best friends, but you should feel like they’ve got your back.
Conclusion
Picking the right advisor isn’t about who’s the cheapest or who has the fanciest office. It’s about finding someone who gets your business, communicates well, charges fairly, and sticks around when things get tough. The wrong choice can lead to expensive mistakes. The right one can help your business thrive.
So take your time. Ask real questions. Don’t settle.
Because the person managing your numbers? They’re a key player in your business—and they should feel like part of the team.
