Can A Bookkeeper Lodge BAS In Australia?

A bookkeeper can perform many bookkeeping tasks, but BAS lodgement is different from ordinary bookkeeping. In Australia, providing BAS services for a fee generally requires the person or business providing those services to be appropriately registered as a BAS agent or tax agent. The Tax Practitioners Board regulates registered BAS agents and tax agents. A registered BAS agent can provide specified BAS services and deal with the ATO on behalf of clients within the scope of their authority. 

This distinction is important because a business may have a bookkeeper who handles day-to-day bookkeeping but uses a registered BAS or tax agent for BAS lodgement. 

Bookkeeping tasks can include entering transactions, reconciling bank accounts, managing accounts payable and receivable, maintaining records and preparing financial information. BAS preparation and lodgement involves additional responsibilities. If you're a Melbourne business owner, ask your bookkeeper exactly what they are authorised and qualified to do before engaging them for BAS work. 

You should also clarify who is responsible for reviewing the figures before the BAS is lodged. Young Guns Bookkeeping can help Melbourne businesses keep their bookkeeping organised and work alongside their accountant or registered BAS professional where required. 

Keeping the accounts accurate throughout the year makes BAS preparation significantly easier because transactions, GST coding and reconciliations are dealt with regularly rather than left until the lodgement deadline.