What to Expect from Your First Meeting with a Perth Business Tax Accountant

krish smisths

June 11, 2025

Table of Content

Meeting with a business tax accountant for the first time can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re a new business owner. However, it’s one of the smartest steps you can take toward managing your finances, meeting ATO obligations, and planning for long-term success. Whether you’re a sole trader, small business, or growing enterprise, your initial consultation sets the foundation for a strong professional relationship.

Here’s what to expect from your first meeting with a business tax accountant in Perth, and how to get the most value from it.

Understanding Your Business Needs

During your first meeting, the accountant will take the time to understand your business structure, operations, and financial goals. They may ask:

What type of business do you operate (sole trader, partnership, company)?
What are your current revenue streams?
Are you registered for GST and PAYG?
What accounting software or methods do you use?
Are there any pressing tax or financial issues?

This helps the accountant evaluate your situation and identify where they can provide the most support.

Reviewing Financial Records and Compliance

To provide accurate advice, the accountant will request access to your financial documents. These may include:

Business bank statements
Recent BAS or tax returns
Profit and loss statements
Invoices and receipts
Employee payroll details
Superannuation payment records

Even if your records aren’t perfectly organised, a small business tax accountant in Perth can assist in sorting and identifying missing or non-compliant areas.

Tax Obligations and Strategy

A key part of the meeting will focus on your current and future tax obligations. Your accountant will:

Review your GST, PAYG, and income tax status
Identify allowable deductions and concessions
Explain the timing and requirements for BAS lodgements
Recommend ways to minimise tax liability legally
Help you understand small business tax offsets or asset write-offs

This strategic guidance can lead to immediate tax savings and better financial clarity.

Assessing Bookkeeping and Systems

Many small businesses in Perth use cloud-based accounting software like Xero, MYOB, or QuickBooks. Your accountant will assess:

Whether your current system is efficient and compliant
How well your income and expenses are categorised
If automation can reduce manual bookkeeping errors

If needed, they’ll suggest upgrades or system improvements to save you time and enhance accuracy.

Business Growth and Planning Support

Beyond tax compliance, your business accountant in Perth can also offer guidance on:

Business structure optimisation (e.g., moving from sole trader to company)
Cash flow management and forecasting
Superannuation strategies
Budgeting and financial goal setting

Your first meeting is the ideal time to raise questions about scaling your business and ensuring long-term financial sustainability.

Setting Expectations and Engagement Terms

Once you decide to work together, the accountant will outline their services, fees, and the scope of engagement. This might include:

BAS and tax return lodgement
Tax planning advice
Payroll and superannuation compliance
Monthly or quarterly financial reporting
Business advisory services

They’ll also explain how and when you’ll communicate—monthly reviews, quarterly check-ins, or ad-hoc meetings as needed.

What You Should Bring to the Meeting

To get the most from your consultation, come prepared with:

Business ABN, TFN, and registration documents
Recent financial records or tax returns
List of business expenses and income
Questions or concerns you have about your business finances
Login details to any accounting software, if available

Preparation helps your accountant hit the ground running and provide actionable advice from the outset.

Choosing the Right Accountant

Your first meeting is not just about your numbers—it’s also about the relationship. A good business tax accountant in Perth should be:

Approachable and clear in their explanations
Knowledgeable about local and industry-specific regulations
Willing to tailor solutions to your specific needs
Transparent with their fees and service inclusions

If the meeting gives you confidence in their expertise and professionalism, you’re on the right track.

Conclusion

Your first meeting with a small business tax accountant in Perth is an opportunity to take control of your business finances, gain valuable insights, and reduce tax stress. With the right professional by your side, you’ll not only meet your ATO obligations but also position your business for smarter growth and success.

Need expert support with tax planning, compliance, or business advice?
Visit our website today https://perthtaxpeople.com.au/business-accountants-perth/ to connect with an experienced business accountant in Perth and schedule your first consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How long does the first accountant meeting usually take?
Typically, the initial consultation lasts between 45 to 90 minutes, depending on your business complexity.

Q2: Is the first consultation free?
Many accountants offer a complimentary initial meeting. Check ahead to confirm whether any fees apply.

Q3: What if my financial records are incomplete or disorganised?
No problem—your accountant can help you get things in order and set up proper record-keeping systems.

Q4: Can the accountant help me switch from a sole trader to a company structure?
Yes. A business accountant can advise on the best structure for your tax position and long-term growth.

Q5: Will they also handle my BAS lodgements and payroll?
Most small business tax accountants in Perth offer BAS, payroll, and full-service accounting as part of their packages. Be sure to ask what’s included.

Meta Title: What to Expect from Your First Meeting with a Perth Business Tax Accountant
Meta Description: Your first meeting with a small business tax accountant in Perth is an opportunity to take control of your business finances, gain valuable insights, and reduce tax stress.
Meta Tags: business tax accountant perth, business accountant perth, small business tax accountant perth