Position Description: Accountant

Location: Melbourne (CBD)

Organisation: The Co. Accountants

About The Co. Accountants

The Co. Accountants is a modern, growth-focused public practice firm based in Melbourne, supporting SMEs, high-growth businesses and entrepreneurial clients across a broad range of industries. The firm is known for its commercial mindset, strong client relationships and commitment to delivering proactive, value‑adding advice beyond compliance.

Role Overview

The Accountant is responsible for delivering high-quality accounting, taxation and advisory support to a portfolio of clients. This role suits a technically capable accountant who enjoys working closely with business owners, contributing to advisory conversations and developing long-term client relationships in a collaborative, professional services environment.

The role provides exposure to end-to-end accounting, direct client interaction and the opportunity to progress technically and commercially within a growing firm.

Key Responsibilities

Client & Advisory

• Manage and support a portfolio of SME clients across multiple industries

• Build trusted relationships with clients and act as a key point of contact

• Assist with advisory services including cash flow management, budgeting, forecasting and business structuring

• Identify opportunities to add value and proactively support client needs

Accounting & Compliance

• Prepare financial statements in accordance with accounting standards

• Prepare and review tax returns for companies, trusts, partnerships and individuals

• Prepare and review BAS, IAS and FBT returns

• Assist with tax planning strategies and year-end processes

• Ensure compliance with ATO and ASIC requirements

Workflow & Team Collaboration

• Manage workflows to meet deadlines and service standards

• Liaise with managers and partners on client matters

• Review work of junior team members where required

• Contribute to process improvement and efficiency initiatives

Systems & Tools

• Use cloud-based accounting platforms such as Xero, MYOB and related add-ons

• Maintain accurate client records and documentation

• Support ongoing adoption of technology and best-practice processes

Key Skills & Experience

Technical Skills

• Strong understanding of Australian accounting and tax legislation

• Experience preparing financial statements and tax returns for SME clients

• Proficiency with cloud accounting software (Xero experience highly regarded)

• Strong Excel and analytical skills

Professional Experience

• 2–5+ years’ experience in public practice accounting (intermediate to senior level)

• Experience working with SME and privately owned businesses

• Exposure to advisory work highly regarded

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Commerce or related discipline

• CA or CPA qualified, or currently undertaking

Personal Attributes

• Commercially minded with a client-first approach

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

• Proactive, organised and deadline-driven

• Ability to work autonomously and as part of a team

• Desire to learn, develop and progress within public practice

What’s On Offer

• Competitive salary package aligned to experience

• Exposure to advisory work and direct client engagement

• Clear career progression and professional development support

• Collaborative, high-performing team culture

• Modern systems and flexible working environment

Reporting Line

Reports to: Manager / Partner

This position description outlines the core responsibilities and expectations of the role and may be adjusted in line with business needs.