In this era of startups and remote job opportunities, one of the great job options for Australian business founders is the bookkeeping business. This position offers both flexible working hours and the opportunity to work remotely. If you want to pursue a career in this field, you must have the correct qualifications. In this article, we will explain in simple terms all the basics you need to become a bookkeeper.
Qualifications Needed to Become a Bookkeeper
- Certification: Don’t have a degree in finance or accounting? This is not a problem because you can obtain the necessary certificates. The certificate will enable you to learn the details of the business and specialize in this field. The certificate is also required for you to become a Business Activity Statements (BAS) agent. It is very important to get a certificate so that you can put your expertise on paper. The Australian government may make regulations in this field in the future. In order not to be disadvantaged, it is important to obtain a certificate to secure your business.
- Experience: After certification, you can start working as a bookkeeper. However, you need 1400 hours of experience to be able to perform BAS-related transactions.
- Join a Professional Organisation: The Certified Bookkeeper Institute or the Australian Bookkeeper Agency are available for bookkeepers in Australia to join. Joining such professional associations and institutes will ensure that you meet the professional qualifications as a bookkeeper as well as develop your skills.
- Become a BAS Representative: Becoming a BAS agent is very advantageous for a bookkeeper. It is beneficial in terms of having a wide range of authorizations such as BAS regulation and business representation to the Australian tax office.
- Insurance: No matter how much attention to detail you pay, it is possible to make mistakes. Therefore, insurance will protect both you and your business. In addition, if you want to become a BAS agent, the Australian tax enforcement board requires professional indemnity insurance. Therefore, obtaining insurance is an important step for your business both personally and professionally.
Bookkeeping Technology and Software
Software packages are now also very popular in the bookkeeping business sector. Next-generation software that allows for the organized and accurate storage of work can ease the workload and stress of the bookkeeper. Although there are many software packages on the market, it is worth taking the time to find one that suits the needs of your specific clients.
Skills Needed to Become a Bookkeeper
To become a bookkeeper, first and foremost you need to be good with numbers. It is also important to be able to work methodically and systematically to keep everything in order. Having an analytical mind and being able to communicate well with clients are other important bookkeeper skills.
Starting a Bookkeeping Business
To own your own bookkeeping business, it is important to get a certificate from a valid institution, gain experience and be able to use specific software. However, there are more detailed requirements to become a BAS agency. Although you do not need to be a registered BAS agency to become a bookkeeper, becoming a BAS agency can bring you several advantages. Have a goal in mind about which direction you want your bookkeeping career to progress in and take the necessary steps.
Conclusion
Acquiring skills and having the right qualifications are keys to becoming a successful bookkeeper. Being one can help especially if you are a business owner. In the meantime, if you think you need help in this area of your business, you’ll need to hire a professional bookkeeper for your professional needs.
