Starting your own accounting business from home is exciting—but also overwhelming. The right accounting software can save you time, keep you compliant, and help you look professional from day one.
Loved for its clean design, real-time bank feeds, and smooth ATO compliance (GST, BAS, STP).
Built with Australian tax rules in mind. Great for payroll-heavy businesses.
Feature-rich with invoicing, forecasting, inventory, and project tracking.
Super simple invoicing + time tracking for freelancers and service providers.
AI-powered and combines banking + accounting. Still evolving but promising.
Budget-friendly, perfect for sole traders needing essentials done right.
100% free! Invoicing, expenses, and receipt capture—but light on advanced features.
✅ Bank integration – automate reconciliations
✅ ATO compliance – BAS, GST, PAYG, STP ready
✅ Invoicing & expense tracking – keep it clean and professional
✅ Mobile access – work on the go
✅ Security – encryption, 2FA, backups
1️⃣ Open a dedicated business bank account
Avoid messy tax time. Keep personal and business money separate.
2️⃣ Set up your structure & registrations
ABN, GST, PAYG, or Pty Ltd—choose wisely and stay compliant.
3️⃣ Find a mentor or senior advisor
A guiding hand can save you from costly mistakes early on.
4️⃣ Stay organized from day one
Block time, categorize expenses immediately, avoid last-minute stress.
5️⃣ Keep learning & networking
New laws, software updates, and industry connections keep you competitive.
6️⃣ Ask smart questions
Clients respect clarity—cover data security, workflow, integrations early.
7️⃣ Make security a priority
Use strong passwords, encryption, and accounting software with bank-level protection.
8️⃣ Draft a launch checklist
📌 Target clients
📌 Pricing model
📌 Legal setup
📌 Software trial & training
| Software | Best For | Strengths |
|---|---|---|
| Xero | Small businesses & startups | Easy ATO integration, mobile, cloud |
| MYOB | Payroll-heavy businesses | Strong payroll & reporting |
| QuickBooks | Growth & scalability | Advanced features, flexible reporting |
| FreshBooks | Freelancers & services | Easy invoicing & time tracking |
| Thriday | Tech-forward early adopters | AI + integrated banking |
| Reckon | Sole traders on a budget | Simple, affordable essentials |
| Wave | Cost-conscious beginners | Free invoicing & expense tracking |
As a junior accountant, starting from home doesn’t mean starting small. With the right software and smart systems, you’ll look professional, stay compliant, and build credibility fast.
👉 Pick a tool that fits your goals.
👉 Build efficient habits from day one.
👉 Keep compliance at the heart of everything you do.
Your future clients will thank you.
