How Do You Find a Good Accountant: Essential Tips for Choosing the Right Accounting Professional

Choosing the right accountant is crucial for effective financial management and business growth, as they provide strategic advice beyond basic bookkeeping to help clients stay compliant and avoid costly penalties. Professional accountants offer tailored solutions for tax planning, cash flow management, and regulatory compliance, with firms like Motion Accounting in Brisbane delivering specialised expertise to support small businesses and individuals.

Understanding the Importance of a Good Accountant

A good accountant helps small businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals maintain accurate financial records, comply with tax regulations, and avoid costly penalties. Accountant expertise in sectors like professional services, retail, and trades enables businesses to manage cash flow, optimise tax outcomes, and meet statutory deadlines.

Strategic financial planning from knowledgeable accountants, such as those at Motion Accounting in Brisbane, supports growth by identifying tax-saving opportunities and structuring businesses for long-term success. Accountants provide reliable information for decision-making, from daily bookkeeping and payroll management to preparing detailed financial reports.

Compliance management helps limit audit risk and ensures all reporting obligations under Australian law are met. When accountants tailor advice to industry-specific needs, clients benefit from custom solutions—like GST planning or QBCC compliance—further strengthening a business’s position. Experts at Motion Accounting apply the latest regulations and best practices to each client, keeping financial operations streamlined and compliant year-round.

Key Qualities to Look For in an Accountant

Choosing a qualified accountant helps reduce compliance risks and improve business efficiency. Entities such as Motion Accounting in Brisbane offer targeted expertise across tax, structuring and compliance, supporting needs specific to small businesses and individuals.

Professional Qualifications and Experience

Accountants require relevant professional accreditations including Chartered Accountant (CA), Certified Practising Accountant (CPA), or equivalent certifications recognised in Australia. Experience managing financial reporting, tax returns, and compliance for sole traders, limited companies, and partnerships demonstrates practical skills required for complex scenarios. For example, Motion Accounting’s team holds current CPA status and brings more than 15 years’ client management experience in business structuring, tax planning, and cash flow reporting. Direct experience with similar-sized businesses or industries, supported by positive client outcomes and clear case studies, signals an accountant’s ability to manage specific tax and accounting obligations confidently.

Specialisation and Industry Knowledge

Accountants show strong value when they specialise in services or industries relevant to the client, for example, retail, professional services, or self-managed superannuation funds. Specialisation covers advisory areas such as GST compliance, payroll management, and R&D incentives helping address sector-specific requirements efficiently. Motion Accounting focuses on small business compliance and strategic tax advice, with detailed understanding of Queensland, state-based and federal regulations. Industry memberships, regular CPD training, and experience managing reporting periods for similar enterprises ensure up-to-date technical knowledge and effective responses to new legislative changes.

Communication and Availability

Effective accountants clearly explain complex financial and tax matters in language clients understand, promoting informed decisions and timely compliance. Responsive service, direct points of contact and digital support channels, such as secure client portals offered by Motion Accounting, strengthen communication. Availability stretches to proactive reminders for BAS lodgements, annual returns, and critical updates, reducing missed deadlines and penalties. Prompt responses to queries, clarity in document requests, and comprehensive review meetings support workflow transparency and build client trust—vital elements for businesses relying on ongoing advisory and planning input.

Steps to Finding a Good Accountant

Employ multiple checks to identify a qualified accountant who aligns with financial goals. Evaluate each step to ensure suitability for ongoing compliance and effective tax planning.

Asking for Recommendations

Requesting recommendations from trusted sources shortlists potential accountants with proven expertise. Business owners, industry peers, or legal advisers often suggest accountants who deliver accurate tax compliance and strategic advice. For clients in Brisbane, referrals to Motion Accounting indicate strong client satisfaction and reliable experience managing bookkeeping, payroll, and business structuring. When possible, confirm that referees’ needs match yours to ensure their recommendations remain relevant.

Checking Qualifications and Memberships

Verifying qualifications and memberships demonstrates an accountant’s commitment to professional standards. Accountants should typically hold designations like Chartered Accountant (CA) or Certified Practising Accountant (CPA). Active membership in professional bodies, including Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ) or CPA Australia, serves as validation. Motion Accounting lists qualified CPAs registered with the Tax Practitioners Board, giving clients confidence in compliance with Australia’s financial regulations. Ensure licences are current for legitimacy.

Interviewing Potential Accountants

Interviewing potential accountants before engagement measures their capacity to address sector-specific compliance needs and tax planning questions. Structured interviews clarify how accountants advise on GST, BAS preparation, payroll, and cash flow—key factors for businesses in retail, trades, or services. Experts at Motion Accounting detail reports and answer regulatory queries directly in client meetings. Prepare questions on experience, communication style, and response times to gauge fit.

Comparing Fees and Services

Comparing fees and services ensures transparency and alignment with budget and requirements. Obtain written proposals detailing service inclusions such as tax preparation, financial reporting, and ongoing advisory. Accountants like Motion Accounting specify fee structures for tasks including small business structuring, tax planning, and compliance lodgements. Present fees in tables to clarify costs before engagement. Seek clarity on additional charges and confirm value for comprehensive tax compliance and support.

Red Flags to Avoid When Choosing an Accountant

Ignoring Credentials or Registration

Selecting an accountant without CA or CPA qualifications increases compliance risk. In Australia, accountants must hold registration with regulatory bodies to offer tax agent services and ensure legal compliance.

Lack of Industry Knowledge

Hiring accountants unfamiliar with business structures or sector regulations leads to missed tax opportunities. Accountants like those at Motion Accounting in Brisbane possess specific industry expertise, including GST compliance, payroll administration, and ATO reporting for trades, professional services, and retail.

Unclear Fee Structure

Engaging with accountants who don’t provide written fee agreements or clearly state inclusions often results in unexpected charges. Motion Accounting transparently outlines costs and service scopes so clients can budget accurately.

Poor Communication

Relying on accountants who rarely respond to queries or use complex language hampers decision-making. Professionals at Motion Accounting use clear language and give prompt advice to support timely compliance and cash flow decisions.

Reluctance to Offer Tailored Solutions

Choosing accountants who only offer generic advice or fail to assess unique needs limits financial outcomes. Motion Accounting delivers custom tax planning and structuring to match each client’s growth objectives and compliance requirements.

Negative or No References

Trusting accountants without proven positive references or client testimonials reduces confidence in their reliability. Reputable practices like Motion Accounting share relevant case studies and client feedback to demonstrate a track record of client support.

Making the Final Decision

Confirming the right accountant involves checking suitability based on previous assessments, with the focus on qualifications, client compatibility, and service flexibility. Reviewing written proposals and engagement terms clarifies exactly what’s included, listing items like bookkeeping, BAS lodgement, tax planning, or payroll support. Motion Accounting in Brisbane issues detailed engagement letters that outline the scope of work, fee structures, and timelines, reducing the risk of hidden costs.

Assessing the accountant’s responsiveness and clarity during prior interactions supports confident selection. Accountants who offer clear explanations of key issues—such as GST reporting, PAYG instalments, and ATO compliance—demonstrate client focus. In industries like retail or professional services, prompt answers and sector knowledge reflect real-world capability.

Verifying testimonials and seeking feedback from existing clients straightens the decision process. Reliable firms like Motion Accounting provide local business references—examples include small business owners and sole traders—for validation of accuracy, timeliness, and value delivered.

Requesting a final meeting allows clients to confirm expectations around service delivery, ongoing communication, and how future tax strategy will be managed—especially for business growth or structural changes. Clarifying ongoing support channels, such as regular review meetings or digital reporting access, confirms long-term fit.

Conclusion

Choosing the right accountant sets the foundation for strong financial management and peace of mind. With a focus on qualifications experience and industry insight businesses and individuals can secure tailored support that drives growth and ensures compliance.

Taking a thoughtful approach to the selection process helps avoid costly mistakes and builds a trusted partnership for the long term. The right accountant doesn’t just crunch numbers—they become a valuable adviser on the journey to financial success.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is choosing the right accountant important for my business?

Selecting the right accountant ensures accurate financial management, compliance with tax laws, and strategic support for business growth. A skilled accountant offers tailored advice, helps avoid costly penalties, and provides peace of mind by handling complex financial matters efficiently.

What are the key qualifications to look for in an accountant?

Look for professional credentials such as Chartered Accountant (CA) or Certified Practising Accountant (CPA). These qualifications demonstrate a commitment to high standards and ongoing education, ensuring your accountant is up to date with current tax rules and regulations.

How can an accountant help my business grow?

An accountant can identify tax-saving opportunities, optimise cash flow, offer strategic financial planning, and recommend the best business structures. Their expertise enables better decision-making and long-term success by ensuring compliance and maximising financial efficiency.

What red flags should I watch out for when selecting an accountant?

Be cautious of accountants without valid qualifications, unclear or hidden fees, poor communication, lack of industry experience, or those offering generic rather than tailored advice. Always check references and avoid those with negative or missing reviews.

How do I find a reliable accountant for my business or personal needs?

Ask for recommendations from trusted sources, verify professional qualifications, and review their experience with businesses similar to yours. Interview potential accountants to assess their communication style and request written fee proposals for transparency.

Why is industry knowledge important in an accountant?

Industry knowledge allows an accountant to address sector-specific requirements, such as GST compliance or payroll management. This expertise ensures they provide relevant advice and tailored solutions to optimise your business’s financial performance.

Can accountants help with compliance and reducing audit risks?

Yes, experienced accountants ensure all financial records meet Australian legal requirements, reducing the risk of errors or audits. They keep your business up-to-date with regulatory changes and help you meet all reporting obligations.

What questions should I ask when interviewing a potential accountant?

Ask about their professional qualifications, experience with your industry, approach to tax planning, availability for support, and their fee structure. Also, enquire how they tailor their services to your specific needs.

Why is good communication with an accountant essential?

Clear communication ensures you understand complex financial matters and helps build a trusting, long-term relationship. A responsive accountant can answer queries quickly, support timely decision-making, and reduce errors or misunderstandings.

How should I compare accountants before making a final decision?

Compare their qualifications, experience, fee structures, and client feedback. Assess how well they communicate and whether their range of services aligns with your needs. Request written proposals to ensure complete transparency regarding costs and inclusions.