How much does a bookkeeper cost in 2026?
If you’re a business owner in Australia, one of the first questions you’ll ask when deciding whether to outsource your bookkeeping and payroll needs in 2026 is: “How much does a bookkeeper cost in 2026?”
The short answer: it depends on your business size, complexity, and support needs — but this guide will give you realistic, up-to-date figures for 2026 so you know exactly what to expect.
What Affects the Cost of a Bookkeeper? Find out how much a bookkeeper will cost in 2026 and what will affect pricing
Bookkeeping fees are not one-size-fits-all. The final cost is influenced by several factors.
Transaction Volume
Businesses with higher numbers of bank transactions require more time and ongoing management.
Payroll and Superannuation
Employers with staff, awards, overtime, or multiple pay runs generally incur higher fees due to increased compliance requirements.
BAS and Compliance Requirements
Quarterly or monthly BAS lodgements, PAYG withholding, and GST reporting add to the scope of work.
Accounting Software
Most bookkeepers work with platforms such as Xero, MYOB, or QuickBooks. Initial setup or ongoing software management can affect pricing.
Condition of Your Books
Businesses that are behind or have incorrect records will usually pay more initially to bring everything up to date before moving to regular maintenance.
Hourly Rates vs Fixed Monthly Fees
Hourly Bookkeeping Rates
Hourly rates in Australia typically range between $60 and $100 per hour.
This option is often used for:
- Catch-up work
- One-off clean-ups
- Short-term assistance
Fixed Monthly Packages
Many businesses prefer fixed monthly pricing because it:
- Provides predictable costs
- Includes ongoing support
- Is generally better value long term
For most businesses, a fixed monthly arrangement offers greater certainty and consistency.
Does Using a BAS Agent Cost More?
A registered BAS agent may charge slightly higher fees than an unregistered bookkeeper, but they are legally authorised to:
- Prepare and lodge BAS
- Manage payroll compliance
- Communicate directly with the ATO on your behalf
In many cases, this reduces the risk of errors, penalties, and additional accountant fees later.
Why Very Cheap Bookkeeping Can Be Risky
Low-cost bookkeeping services can sometimes result in:
- Incorrect BAS lodgements
- Payroll and superannuation errors
- ATO penalties
- Higher costs when an accountant has to fix issues later
Quality bookkeeping is not just an expense — it is a key part of managing risk and keeping your business compliant.
Is a Bookkeeper Worth the Cost?
For most Australian businesses of any size, the answer is yes.
A reliable bookkeeper helps:
- Keep financial records accurate and up to date
- Reduce stress and time spent on admin
- Ensure compliance with tax and payroll obligations
- Provide clean data for your accountant
Average Bookkeeping Costs in Australia (2026)
While fees vary between providers, most businesses in Australia can expect pricing to fall within the following ranges:
| Business Type | Typical Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Sole trader, small business (low transaction volume) | $400 – $600 |
| Medium business | $600 – $800 |
| Large business | $800 – $1,200 |
| High-volume or payroll-heavy businesses | $1,200+ |
These figures usually cover ongoing bookkeeping services such as transaction processing, reconciliations, and basic reporting. Payroll is usually an optional add-on for a set fee per employee.
Our monthly costs at 365 Bookkeeping and BAS are very competitive with this guide and you can find our pricing information here and get started with one of our plans today: https://365bookkeepingandbas.com.au/pricing/
Final Thoughts
If your bookkeeping is not up to date, it becomes difficult for anyone to give you accurate financial advice. For many businesses, engaging a professional bookkeeper early can save both time and money in the long run.
If you’re unsure what level of support your business needs, a short consultation can help clarify whether bookkeeping services are right for you and what they may cost.
You can book a consultation with our team today and we will be able to provide some more clarity about why engaging in a bookkeeper in 2026 is a great idea for your business.
