If you run a small business in Bunbury or the South West of Western Australia, you might be wondering:
What is the difference between a bookkeeper, an accountant and a financial adviser?
They all deal with financial matters, but their roles are clearly defined and operate at different levels of responsibility.
As a Registered BAS Agent servicing Bunbury and the wider South West WA region, this is one of the most common questions we receive at TLS BAS & Bookkeeping.
Understanding who does what ensures you receive the right support at the right time, for the right price, particularly when it comes to payroll, BAS lodgements, tax planning and long-term financial strategy.
Here is a clear breakdown.
The Bookkeeper: The Financial Backbone of Your Bunbury Business
A professional bookkeeper in Bunbury manages the day-to-day financial records of your business.
At TLS BAS & Bookkeeping, we provide bookkeeping services to Bunbury and South West WA businesses, including:
- BAS preparation and lodgement as a Registered BAS Agent
- Payroll processing and superannuation compliance
- Bank and credit card reconciliations
- Accounts payable and receivable
- Cashflow reporting
- Xero and MYOB bookkeeping support
- Ongoing ATO compliance
For Bunbury small businesses, accurate bookkeeping is not simply data entry. It is risk management.
Without accurate bookkeeping:
- Your BAS may be incorrect
- Payroll obligations may be exposed
- Your accountant cannot provide reliable tax advice with out charging hefty fees
- You may lack clarity around business performance
Strong bookkeeping provides financial clarity throughout the year.
The Accountant: Tax Planning and Business Strategy
Your business accountant in Bunbury operates at a higher compliance and advisory level.
They typically handle:
- Annual financial statements
- Company, trust and individual tax returns
- Business structure advice
- End of financial year tax planning
- Strategies to legally reduce taxable income
If you are asking:
“How can I reduce my taxable income before 30 June?”
That is a tax planning discussion with your accountant.
Tax planning for Bunbury small businesses may include:
- Superannuation contribution strategies
- Timing of income and expenses
- Asset purchases and write-offs
- Reviewing the suitability of your business structure
Effective tax planning depends on clean and accurate bookkeeping. Your accountant relies on accurate financial data to provide strategic advice.
The Financial Adviser: Wealth and Retirement Planning in Bunbury
A licensed financial adviser servicing Bunbury focuses on building and protecting your personal wealth.
They assist with:
- Superannuation strategy
- Retirement planning
- Investment portfolios
- Personal and business insurance
- Long-term wealth accumulation
While your business generates income, a financial adviser supports the process of converting that income into structured, long-term wealth.
Their focus is your future financial security beyond compliance reporting.
Bookkeeper vs Accountant vs Financial Adviser: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Area of Responsibility | Bookkeeper (Registered BAS Agent) | Accountant | Financial Adviser |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Day-to-day financial records and compliance reporting | Tax compliance and business strategy | Personal wealth and long-term financial planning |
| Compliance Role | BAS, GST, payroll, STP and super reporting | Tax returns, financial statements and tax planning | Licensed financial advice under an Australian Financial Services Licence |
| Timeframe | Ongoing monthly or quarterly reporting | Annual reporting and strategic tax planning | Long-term wealth and retirement planning |
| Handles BAS Lodgements? | Yes, if registered as a BAS Agent | Uses BAS data for tax reporting | No |
| Prepares Tax Returns? | No | Yes | No |
| Provides Investment Advice? | No | No | Yes |
| Focus Outcome | Accurate records and compliant reporting | Tax efficiency and business structure guidance | Wealth growth and financial security |
Why This Matters for Bunbury Business Owners
For small business owners in Bunbury and the South West, confusion between these roles can lead to:
- Missed tax planning opportunities
- Delayed strategic decisions
- Gaps in personal wealth planning
- Compliance risks
Each professional has a defined role:
- Bookkeeper Bunbury: Keeps your records accurate and compliant
- Accountant Bunbury: Manages tax and financial strategy
- Financial Adviser Bunbury: Builds and protects personal wealth
When these professionals work together appropriately, your business operates with structure and clarity.
Bookkeeping & BAS Services in Bunbury
If you are a Bunbury business owner and unsure who you should speak to, start with a bookkeeper you can trust.
At TLS BAS & Bookkeeping, we provide professional bookkeeping and BAS services to Bunbury and South West WA businesses. We work alongside your accountant or financial adviser to ensure your financial records support informed decisions.
Clear roles.
Accurate numbers.
Stronger financial outcomes.
Contact our team for an assement of your business.
FAQ’s about Bookkeeper v Accountant v Financial Adviser
What is the difference between a bookkeeper, an accountant and a financial adviser?
Who should I speak to about BAS and payroll reporting in Bunbury?
Who should I speak to about reducing taxable income before 30 June?
Why does accurate bookkeeping matter before I speak with my accountant?
What does a financial adviser help with that a bookkeeper does not?
Where should I start if I am unsure who I need?
