Accountants & Auditors

About the Accounts and Auditors heading in Yellow Pages®

An accountant looks after the financial information of an individual or a firm and also serves as an advisor. An auditor, on the other hand, is someone who is involved in the evaluation of a business, property, project or product among other things.

Accountants provide individuals with services such as annual tax returns, retirement and estate planning and asset protection. Accountants also keep financial records for individuals and conduct periodic reporting according to legislative requirements. Businesses both large and small utilise the services of an accountant for activities including payroll processing, GST reporting and corporate accounting. Clients planning on starting a small business make use of accountants for advice and assistance with business planning, administration and registration. Auditors are engaged to conduct an independent financial audit of a business, to determine whether the financial reports of a business accurately reflect its financial position. An independent financial audit must be conducted by a qualified auditor.

There are three legally recognised professional accounting bodies in Australia. The Institute of Public Accountants, CPA Australia, and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Australia all provide members with education and training, advocacy and professional and ethical standards.

Accountants offer fixed pricing for one-off activities such as the completion of tax returns and ongoing fees for regular services such as GST reporting. Auditors charge a fee for their services that is dependent upon the size of the organisation being audited. Search with Yellow Pages® to find a number of accountants and auditors in all states in Australia.