Accountants and Tax Agents in Melbourne 2026 — How to Find a Good Accountant and What to Expect

Accountants and Tax Agents in Melbourne 2026

Melbourne has a large and competitive accounting market with the full spectrum from Big Four firms in the CBD down to local suburban tax agents. The city's strong small business and hospitality sector means demand for small business accountants (BAS, payroll, Xero/MYOB bookkeeping) is particularly high. ato.gov.au

How to Find a Registered Tax Agent in Melbourne

• Tax Practitioners Board (TPB) Register: Verify your tax agent is registered before engaging them. Search at tpb.gov.au/registered-tax-practitioners.
• CPA Australia member locator: Find CPA-qualified accountants in Melbourne at cpaaustralia.com.au.
• Chartered Accountants ANZ: Directory of CA ANZ members. charteredaccountantsanz.com.

What Does a Tax Return Cost in Melbourne 2026?

• Individual (simple, PAYG only): $100-$280
• Individual (with investment income, rental property): $200-$550+
• Sole trader annual return: $400-$1,800+
• Company return: $800-$3,000+ depending on complexity

Key ATO Tax Deadlines for Melbourne Residents 2026

• Individual self-lodge deadline: 31 October 2026 for FY 2025-26
• Via registered tax agent: Extended deadlines apply — agents typically have until May or later for registered clients. Engage your agent before 31 October to access the extension.
• BAS: Quarterly or monthly — check your ATO portal for exact dates.

Victorian Land Tax Note for Property Investors

Melbourne property investors should note that Victoria's land tax regime is among the more complex in Australia, with the additional windfall gains tax and the temporary COVID land tax surcharge still affecting some assessments. A Victorian tax accountant familiar with state taxes is particularly valuable for property investors. sro.vic.gov.au

This article was compiled by AI and screened before publishing. See our editorial standards.