How much does a bookkeeper cost?

If you’re running a business, you’ve probably asked yourself: “Do I really need a bookkeeper?” quickly followed by: “But how much is it going to cost me?”

The truth is, good bookkeeping pays for itself. in saved time, cleaner financials, and better business decisions. But let’s break down what you can actually expect to pay for a bookkeeper in Australia, and what kind of value you get in return.

What Affects Bookkeeping Costs?

Before diving into the numbers, it’s important to understand that no two businesses are the same. A sole trader with a few monthly transactions won’t need the same level of support as a multi-entity business with payroll, BAS lodgements, and detailed reporting.

The cost of bookkeeping depends on:

The size and complexity of your business
The number of transactions and bank accounts
How often you need reporting
Whether you need payroll, BAS lodgement, or accounts receivable/payable
The systems and software you use (e.g. Xero, MYOB, QuickBooks)

Now, let’s look at the typical pricing tiers.

Basic Bookkeeping: $300–$500/month

This level of service usually suits smaller businesses with simple needs — think solo tradespeople, consultants, or startups.

What’s included?

Coding of bank transactions
Monthly bank reconciliations
Basic reporting

It’s enough to keep your accounts tidy and ready for your accountant come tax time, without you needing to spend hours every week inside Xero.

Full-Service Bookkeeping: $500–$700/month

This is where things get more hands-on. If you’re running a growing business, chances are you’ll want help staying on top of the day-to-day admin.

What’s included?

Everything in Basic Bookkeeping
Payroll processing
Accounts payable and receivable
BAS preparation and lodgement
Monthly or quarterly reporting

Full-service bookkeeping is ideal for businesses with staff, regular supplier payments, and a higher volume of transactions.

Advanced or Custom Bookkeeping: $700–$1200+/month

Larger or more complex businesses often need a customised approach. This might include managing multiple entities, providing detailed management reports, or meeting regularly to discuss financial performance.

What’s included?

Tailored services based on your business structure
Consolidated reporting for multiple entities
Regular meetings with your bookkeeper
Ongoing support and advice

These packages are highly flexible — we build them around what your business actually needs, not a one-size-fits-all model.

So, What Will Your Bookkeeping Cost?

At Bookkeeping Angels, we know that every business is unique — and so are their bookkeeping needs.

That’s why we don’t lock clients into fixed packages straight away. Instead, we start with a quick chat to get a feel for your setup, the systems you use, and what support you’re looking for. From there, we’ll provide a tailored quote that fits both your business and your budget.

Final Thoughts: Think of It As an Investment

Rather than asking “how much does a bookkeeper cost?” — a better question might be:
“What could it cost me not to have a good bookkeeper?”

Missed BAS deadlines, cash flow issues, or messy records can be far more expensive in the long run. Investing in professional bookkeeping gives you back time, reduces stress, and helps you make smarter financial decisions.