By Wayne Lock – Achieve Business & Financial Solutions
Thinking About Working with a Virtual Accountant?
Smart move! For many Australian business owners, the idea might be new, but it’s becoming the go-to choice for growth-focused small to medium-sized businesses.
Whether you’re not ready for a full-time in-house accountant or simply want the convenience of expert help without geographical limits, a virtual accountant could be exactly what you need.
At Achieve Business & Financial Solutions, we specialise in helping business owners gain clarity, control, and confidence in their numbers – and working virtually makes that easier than ever.
Our guide will walk you through:
- What a virtual accountant does
- Why it could be the best decision for your business
- The right questions to ask before you hire one
- Common challenges (and how to overcome them)
- How to get the most from your virtual accounting partnership
What Is a Virtual Accountant?
A virtual accountant, (sometimes referred to as virtual management accounting) is a qualified professional who manages your bookkeeping, tax, payroll, financial consulting, and business advisory needs remotely – all via secure cloud platforms.
No matter where you are in Australia (or the world), you get direct access to high-level accounting expertise without the cost of an in-house hire or extra office space.
Why Work with a Virtual Accountant?
- Cost-Effective
You only pay for the services you need – no salaries, superannuation, office space, or equipment costs.
- Flexible & Accessible
We can meet on your schedule, even outside the traditional 9–5, and without travel delays.
- Tailored Advice
With fewer clients than a large firm, we can provide the personalised attention your business deserves.
- Specialist Expertise
We cover all areas of your compliance requirements from GST, Income Tax, ASIC, to payroll, Financial Reporting, SMSF administration and more.
We also provide management reporting, business structuring, growth strategies and protection and succession planning advice – you get access to the right skills for your specific needs.
- Streamlined Processes
We use secure, cloud-based systems to process work efficiently, giving you real-time visibility over your numbers.
The Smart Questions to Ask Your Virtual Accountant Before You Choose
- What experience do you have in my industry?
- Which accounting platforms do you use, and do you provide training?
- How will we communicate, and how often will I hear from you?
- How do you safeguard my financial data?
- Exactly what services are included in your fee?
- How is your pricing structured – hourly, monthly, or project-based?
- Can you share examples of results you’ve achieved for similar businesses?
- How do you keep up with tax changes and compliance rules?
These are no different to the questions you would ask of any accountant.
Challenges You Might Face (and How We Solve Them)
Challenge | What It Means for You | Achieve’s Solution |
Document Delays | Work slows when documents arrive late | Secure client portal + reminders |
Software Overwhelm | Struggling with new platforms | Personalised onboarding & training |
Communication Gaps | Missed messages or delays | Clear communication plan & regular check-ins |
Data Security Concerns | Worry about your sensitive information | Encrypted systems & multi-factor authentication |
Unclear Deliverables | Confusion about what’s included | Written scope of work & fixed-fee packages |
Compliance Worries | Risk of non-compliance | Ongoing monitoring of tax and legal changes |
Tech Skills | Not confident with digital tools | Step-by-step guidance & support |
Automation Errors | Risk of system glitches | Regular manual reviews & quality checks |
How to Get the Most Out of Your Virtual Accountant
- Stay Organised – Upload documents by agreed deadlines.
- Communicate Often – Ask questions and clarify instructions early.
- Embrace the Tech – Use the cloud systems to your advantage.
- Review the Agreement – Be clear on inclusions and extras.
- Schedule Reviews – Regularly check on business performance and strategy.
Quick Benefits Recap
- Save Money – Only pay for what you need.
- Enjoy Flexibility – Meet when and how it suits you.
- Access Expertise – Work with a specialist who understands your business.
- Streamline Operations – Get faster, more accurate results.
- Stay Compliant – Keep ahead of ATO and regulatory changes.
A great virtual accountant doesn’t just “do the books” – they become your trusted business partner. With the right systems, communication, and expertise, working virtually can feel just as personal as meeting face-to-face – and often more efficient.
At Achieve Business & Financial Solutions, we help business owners across Australia make better decisions, grow stronger businesses, and protect their financial future – all without the need for another desk in your office.
Ready to work smarter with your numbers?
Let’s talk about how our virtual accounting services can help you take control of your business finances. Call today for a free consultation.
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