What does it cost to start a bookkeeping business?
A bookkeeping business has very low startup costs — it is mostly a laptop, accounting software and the right registrations. If you offer BAS services you must register as a BAS agent, which is the main regulatory hurdle and cost.
As a guide, plan for around $1,600 – $10,500 in one-off setup costs and $300 – $2,600 per month in running costs. Adding a three-month cash buffer puts a realistic launch figure at $2,500 – $18,300.
One-off setup costs
The costs you pay once to get up and running:
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Computer & home office setup | $500 – $4,000 |
| Accounting software setup | $100 – $800 |
| BAS agent registration | $0 – $1,200 |
| Branding & website | $500 – $3,000 |
| Professional membership join fee | $200 – $600 |
| Insurance setup | $300 – $900 |
Totals roughly $1,600 – $10,500. Buying used or starting lean lands you near the lower end.
Monthly running costs
The ongoing costs of operating each month:
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Accounting software subscriptions | $50 – $400 |
| Professional indemnity insurance | $50 – $200 |
| Marketing & lead gen | $100 – $1,000 |
| Professional development & membership | $50 – $250 |
| Office/co-working (optional) | $0 – $600 |
| Phone & internet | $50 – $150 |
Totals roughly $300 – $2,600 per month. Work out your break-even point →
Licences & registrations
- ABN registration
- BAS Agent registration with the Tax Practitioners Board (to lodge BAS)
- Professional indemnity insurance
- Membership of a recognised body (e.g. ICB, IPA)
- Relevant qualification (Cert IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping)
Not legal advice — requirements vary by state and council. Check business.gov.au and your local council.
Tips to start lean
- Recurring monthly bookkeeping retainers give predictable, scalable income.
- Specialising in one industry lets you charge more and work faster.
- Cloud accounting software lets you serve clients anywhere in Australia.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to start a bookkeeping business in Australia?
A small, owner-operated start typically costs around $2,500 – $18,300. That covers roughly $1,600 – $10,500 in one-off setup costs plus a three-month buffer for running costs of about $300 – $2,600 per month. Your actual figure depends heavily on scale, location and whether you buy new or used.
What are the ongoing monthly costs?
Expect ongoing running costs of roughly $300 – $2,600 per month, covering items like accounting software subscriptions, professional indemnity insurance, marketing & lead gen and more. Use the break-even calculator to see how many sales cover these.
What licences or registrations do I need?
Common requirements include: ABN registration; BAS Agent registration with the Tax Practitioners Board (to lodge BAS); Professional indemnity insurance; Membership of a recognised body (e.g. ICB, IPA); Relevant qualification (Cert IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping). Always confirm the exact requirements with your state and local council.
Can I start a bookkeeping business cheaply?
Yes — the low end of the range (around $2,500) is realistic if you start lean: buy used equipment, start from home or solo where possible, and avoid a fixed lease until demand is proven.
Cost ranges are general estimates for 2025–26 and vary widely by location, scale and choices. Not financial or business advice.