This role has a high level of AI exposure. While some human skills are required, many tasks could be automated or replaced by new technology.
Explore all careersHow do I become a BAS Agent?
Get qualified to work as a BAS Agent with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to BAS Agent
Common questions
BAS Agents in Australia are regulated by the Tax Practitioner’s Board (TPB) and must have appropriate qualifications and professional experience as a bookkeeper. To obtain TPB registration you must: 1. Complete a TPB-approved bookkeeping course that includes the BAS Agent Registration Skill Set. Suitable qualifications include the Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping, Diploma of Accounting, and Diploma of Payroll Services. 2. Complete at least 1,400 hours of work experience under the supervision of a registered BAS Agent or accountant. However, this can be reduced to 1,000 hours if you join a professional association that is recognised by the TPB. 3. Hold professional indemnity insurance.
Courses.com.au Team
The average weekly earnings for a full-time BAS Agent is currently $1,400 per week ($72,800 annually). This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. Self-employed BAS Agents often earn higher salaries.
Courses.com.au Team
There are approximately 97,500 qualified bookkeepers working in Australia right now, many of these are also registered BAS Agents. There are job opportunities for BAS Agents in all regions of the country, including remote and rural locations. While some BAS Agents work for large corporations, government departments, and accounting firms, many are self-employed or work part-time for smaller bookkeeping agencies. Becoming a BAS Agent is an excellent career choice for anyone wanting flexible hours or to work remotely or from a home office.
Source: Jobs and Skills Australia, 2024
Courses.com.au Team
Further reading
What can you do with a Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping?
18th August 2020
How to become a Finance Broker in Australia
14th August 2019All bas agent courses
BAS Agent careers
BAS Agents are specialist bookkeepers. They hold additional qualifications that allow them to prepare and lodge Business Activity Statements (BAS) with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) on behalf of their clients.
As a BAS Agent, you help businesses manage their GST (goods and services tax) obligations, superannuation liabilities, PAYG instalments, and other key tax payments. Your work day might include: setting up a computerised accounting system for a new client, processing invoices and incoming payments, generating a BAS statement and advising the client of their GST obligations, updating the computerised payroll to include the tax tables for the new financial year, ensuring the client has appropriate receipts and documents on file, lodging a return with the ATO.
To be successful in this role you will need an eye for detail and committed to data accuracy and integrity. BAS Agents also need outstanding interpersonal skills so they can provide expert advice to their clients.
