• Home
  • Courses by Subject
      • Accounting
      • Bookkeeping
      • Finance
      • MYOB
      • Payroll
      • Xero
      • Animal Care
      • Animal Science
      • Dog Training
      • Pet Grooming
      • Veterinary Nursing
      • Arts
      • Dance
      • Design
      • Graphic Design
      • Interior Design
      • Photography
      • User Experience Design
      • Web Design
      • Building and Construction
      • Carpentry
      • Plumbing
      • Business
      • Business Administration
      • Business Development
      • Business Operations
      • Change Management
      • Customer Service
      • Entrepreneurship
      • Human Resources
      • Leadership and Management
      • Logistics
      • Management
      • MBA
      • Organisational Development
      • PRINCE2
      • Product Management
      • Project Management
      • Quality Management
      • Reception
      • Small Business
      • Supply Chain Operations
      • Aged Care
      • Alcohol and Other Drugs
      • Celebrancy
      • Community Services
      • Disability
      • Individual Support
      • Youth Work
      • Child Care
      • Education
      • Education Support
      • Training and Assessment
      • Manufacturing
      • Agriculture
      • Conservation and Land Management
      • Horticulture
      • Sustainability
      • Beauty
      • Eyebrow
      • Hairdressing
      • Lash
      • Makeup
      • Nail Technology
      • Allied Health
      • Counselling
      • Dental Assisting
      • Fitness
      • Health
      • Health Administration
      • Health Science
      • Health Services Assistance
      • Life Coaching
      • Massage
      • Medical Administration
      • Mental Health
      • Naturopathy
      • Nursing
      • Nutrition
      • Personal Training
      • Pharmacy
      • Practice Management
      • Psychology
      • Sports Management
      • Event Management
      • Hospitality
      • Retail
      • Travel and Tourism
      • Wedding Planning
      • Agile
      • Artificial Intelligence
      • AWS
      • Cloud Computing
      • Coding
      • CompTIA
      • Cyber Security
      • Data Analytics
      • Data Science
      • IT
      • ITIL
      • Microsoft
      • Networking
      • Programming
      • Software
      • Systems Administration
      • Web Development
      • Compliance and Risk
      • Criminology
      • Government
      • Legal
      • Work Health and Safety
      • Digital Marketing
      • Marketing
      • Social Media Marketing
    • Blended
    • In-class
    • Online
    • Virtual
  • Courses by State
    • ACT
    • New South Wales
    • Northern Territory
    • Queensland
    • South Australia
    • Tasmania
    • Victoria
    • Western Australia
    • Graduate Diploma
    • Diploma
    • Advanced Diploma
    • Associate Degree
    • Graduate Certificate
    • Certificate II
    • Certificate III
    • Certificate IV
    • Bachelor
    • Masters
    • Short
  • Courses by Provider
  • Government Funded Courses
  • Student Hub
  • The Workforce Training Hub
  • FAQs
 Homepage
Student Hub Career Advice Industry Insider Study Tips Resources Video Gallery
  1. Home
  2. Student Hub
  3. Careers
  4. How to Grow Your Career in Bookkeeping in 5 Simple Steps
In this post
  • What type of bookkeeping career do you want?
  • Step 1: Study a course
  • Step 2: Learn bookkeeping software
  • Step 3: Get your BAS registration
  • Step 4: Continue to upskill
  • Step 5: Get Professional Indemnity (PI) Insurance
  • Browse Results
Published on November 3, 2023

How to Grow Your Career in Bookkeeping in 5 Simple Steps

Avatar photo Kristen Michaelides
How to Grow Your Career in Bookkeeping in 5 Simple Steps
In this post Show
  • What type of bookkeeping career do you want?
  • Step 1: Study a course
  • Step 2: Learn bookkeeping software
  • Step 3: Get your BAS registration
  • Step 4: Continue to upskill
  • Step 5: Get Professional Indemnity (PI) Insurance
  • Browse Results

Financial literacy and accountability for decision-making are key to the success of many small to medium businesses. That’s why there’ll always be a demand for bookkeeping jobs.

As these businesses navigate complex financial landscapes, you play a pivotal role as a skilled bookkeeper to ensure financial accuracy, compliance, and success.

This guide outlines five simple yet essential steps to help you grow your bookkeeping career and become a trusted expert in the field.

 

Browse Bookkeeping Courses

What type of bookkeeping career do you want?

Before diving into the steps, first, you need to identify the bookkeeping career path you want to take, what salary you’re aiming for, and whether you’re interested in a part-time or full-time role.

Do you envision yourself working for a well-established organisation? Or offering your services to a variety of clients as an independent bookkeeper? Perhaps you’d even like to establish your own bookkeeping business.

Your career aspirations and annual salary goals will influence the steps you take and the courses you pursue, so it’s essential to have a clear vision from the outset.

How to Become a Bookkeeper

Interested in becoming a bookkeeper? Learn more about the role, and the steps you need to take to be successful with our how to become a bookkeeper guide.


Step 1: Study a course

The foundation of a successful bookkeeping career lies in a solid understanding of accounting and bookkeeping principles. To achieve this, Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping provides comprehensive training and the right skill set. This course offers a wealth of knowledge, from financial reporting and analysis to budgeting and tax preparation.

While studying an accounting and bookkeeping course, you’ll develop essential skills such as financial data analysis, generating financial statements, and a deep understanding of accounting software. These skills will serve as the building blocks of your bookkeeping expertise.


Step 2: Learn bookkeeping software

Bookkeeping is made more efficient and accurate with the use of dedicated accounting and bookkeeping software. There are a lot of platforms you can learn about but the most popular and widely used platforms in the industry are Xero and MYOB. Familiarising yourself with these tools through studying a short course in Xero or MYOB is a must if you want to stand out in the job market.

Learning to navigate these software solutions allows you to efficiently manage financial data, financial records, and financial transactions. You can also reconcile accounts, and generate essential financial reports. This knowledge is invaluable, whether you’re working within an organisation or serving multiple clients as an independent bookkeeper.


Step 3: Get your BAS registration

Becoming a registered Business Activity Statement (BAS) agent is an essential step to become a certified bookkeeper in Australia. To achieve this, you must accumulate 1,400 hours of relevant work experience and then register with the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB). This registration is vital for ensuring you can legally provide BAS services, a core function of many bookkeeping roles.

Not only does BAS registration enhance your credibility in the field, but it also enables you to offer services such as lodging activity statements, auditing, and assisting clients with tax compliance. You can also become a registered BAS agent, further expanding your career opportunities.


Step 4: Continue to upskill

Bookkeeping is a dynamic field that continually evolves with changing regulations and technologies. To stay ahead, consider continuing your education and upskilling. You might explore advanced accounting courses such as a bachelor’s degree or the Diploma of Accounting, or delve into specialised areas, such as forensic accounting or taxation.

Additionally, if you’re passionate about entrepreneurship, you can explore the option of starting your own bookkeeping business. This step can provide both financial autonomy and career satisfaction.


Step 5: Get Professional Indemnity (PI) Insurance

Professional Indemnity (PI) insurance is a vital consideration for any practicing bookkeeper. It safeguards your career by providing protection in the event of professional disputes or claims of negligence. PI insurance is often a requirement when working for larger organisations or taking on government contracts.

Obtaining PI insurance offers peace of mind and reinforces your commitment to delivering high-quality bookkeeping services. It’s a crucial step towards building a resilient and secure career in bookkeeping.


Building a bookkeeping career requires dedication, education, and ongoing professional development. By following these five steps, you’ll embark on a journey towards becoming a trusted expert in the field. Whether you aspire to work for established firms, support small businesses, or run your own bookkeeping practice, these steps give you the right bookkeeping skills and credentials to achieve success.

So, why wait? Take the first step today and enquire about a course to kickstart your bright and fulfilling future as a professional bookkeeper.

Loading...
Navigator Illustration
Not sure which course to choose? Let us recommend the best courses to suit you!
gator tooltip icon
Our course navigator helps refine thousands of courses into a personalised list that suits you. Click to answer each question, so we can provide you with the best possible courses, tailored to your preferences.
Not sure which course to choose? Let us recommend the best courses to suit you!

Try our navigator tool and find the right course.

Start Here
Navigator Illustration

Browse Results

Loading...
Courses found:
Top Result

Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert

Short Course
This is a short course focused on skill based training rather than a nationally accredited certificate or diploma.

Why choose the Azure Solutions Architect Expert? The Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert course elevates your expertise in designing and implementing Azure solutions. The course teaches you to craft solutions tailored to specific busi...

Learning People -  Course
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Azure Solutions Architect
Learning People -  Course

Full Stack Developer Micro-credential: Technology Product Development Essentials Certificate

Short Course
This is a short course focused on skill based training rather than a nationally accredited certificate or diploma.

Excited about solving real-world business and community challenges by builiding full-scale web applications? Step into the future of tech with our Full Stack Developer programme. You’ll dive into the world of software development – combining fron...

Mission Ready HQ -  Course
Study Method Blended, Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Junior Web Developer +5
Mission Ready HQ -  Course

Data Analytics and Advanced Business Intelligence Diploma

Short Course
This is a short course focused on skill based training rather than a nationally accredited certificate or diploma.

Ready to build a complete skillset in data analytics, step-by-step? Whether you’re just starting or looking to grow into a more technical role, this programme gives you the hands-on skills and confidence to extract insights, automate workflows, a...

Mission Ready HQ -  Course
Study Method Blended, Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Junior Data Analyst +5
Mission Ready HQ -  Course

Business Analyst & Salesforce Certification

Short Course
This is a short course focused on skill based training rather than a nationally accredited certificate or diploma.

Ready to drive strategic decisions and shape powerful tech solutions? Excited to bridge the gap between business needs and technology? Learn to analyse, strategise, and design innovative solutions as an AI-Powered Business Analyst. From mastering Agile...

Mission Ready HQ -  Course
Study Method Blended, Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Business Analyst +4
Mission Ready HQ -  Course

AI-Powered Full Stack Developer Diploma

Ready to go from the basics to become the centre of AI innovation? Launch your tech career with our structured 32-week Diploma, combines two powerful Accelerators. You’ll start by learning to create modern full stack applications from scratch, th...

Mission Ready HQ -  Course
Study Method Blended, Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Junior Web Developer +5
Mission Ready HQ -  Course

AI-Powered Full Stack Business Analyst Diploma

Bridge strategy and code. Lead with insight. Build with impact. The Diploma in AI-Powered Full Stack Business Analyst uniquely blends business analysis, UI design, creating applications with low-code tool, front-end coding skills, and AI-driven workflo...

Mission Ready HQ -  Course
Study Method Blended, Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Technical Business Analyst +5
Mission Ready HQ -  Course

Data Analytics Launchpad Certificate

Short Course
This is a short course focused on skill based training rather than a nationally accredited certificate or diploma.

Curious about the world of data but not sure where to start? The Data Analytics Launchpad is your entry point into one of the fastest-growing fields in tech. Over 10 weeks, you’ll build practical skills in data analysis, visualisation, and storytelling...

Mission Ready HQ -  Course
Study Method Blended, Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Junior Data Analyst +4
Mission Ready HQ -  Course

Diploma of Information Technology (Cyber Security) ICT50220

The ICT50220 Diploma of Information Technology (Cyber Security) is a specialised qualification that equips you with the essential knowledge, technical expertise, and hands-on practical skills needed to build a successful career in Cyber Security. With...

TrainSmart Australia -  Course
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Network Engineer / Technicia... +7
TrainSmart Australia -  Course

Graduate Certificate in Athlete Wellbeing and Management

The Graduate Certificate in Athlete Wellbeing and Management (GCAWM) provides students with the opportunity to target specific employment opportunities related to the management of athletes and other participants within sport. Target roles include: Hig...

The Australian College of Physical Education -  Course
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Athlete Wellbeing & Enga... +4
The Australian College of Physical Education -  Course

Diploma of Business

In the BSB50120 Diploma of Business, you’ll delve into the intricacies of business management. This program equips you with the knowledge and expertise to excel in strategic planning, task prioritization, and decision-making. You’ll become...

MCI Institute -  Course
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Executive Officer +5
MCI Institute -  Course
New

Dual Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs & Certificate IV in Mental Health CHC43215,CHC43315

This dual Certificate IV program will train you to assist people who are struggling with mental health, alcohol and drugs. You will graduate equipped to deliver treatment tailored to the individual, to improve their lives and give them hope for the fut...

Open Colleges -  Course
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Case Worker +10
Open Colleges -  Course

Certificate IV in Entrepreneurship and New Business & Certificate IV in Marketing and Communication BSB40320,BSB40820

Get your business off to a solid start with professional skills and knowledge across strategic planning, financial management, and digital marketing. Small businesses are booming in Australia, with over 2.4 million in operation across the country. Thes...

Open Colleges -  Course
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Advertising Account Coordina... +18
Open Colleges -  Course

Cyber Security Engineering: Transform

Short Course
This is a short course focused on skill based training rather than a nationally accredited certificate or diploma.

Save 20% on all Academy Xi courses this EOFY. Discount applies until 30th June 2025 and only to Pay-in-Full prices. Enquire now to claim your discount. Cyber Security Engineering: Transform – 12 months of access, can be completed in 3 months (any-time...

Academy Xi -  Course
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Cyber Security Analyst +2
Academy Xi -  Course

Certificate III in School Based Education Support and Certificate IV in School Based Education Support CHC30221,CHC40221

The combined CHC30221 Certificate III in School Based Education Support + CHC40221 Certificate IV in School Based Education Support reflects the role of workers who assist teachers and support student learning in a range of classroom settings. By compl...

Foundation Education -  Course
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Teachers Assistant +3
Foundation Education -  Course

Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care CHC30221,CHC40221

The combined CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care + CHC50121 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care will earn you the required experience, training and expertise to work in a variety of early childhood education jobs. T...

Foundation Education -  Course
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Long Day Care Educator +8
Foundation Education -  Course

Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (Family Day Care) and Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care CHC30121,CHC50121

The combined CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (Family Day Care) + CHC50121 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care equips you with the required experience, training and expertise to work in a variety of early childho...

Foundation Education -  Course
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Family Day Care Educator +9
Foundation Education -  Course

Certificate III in Dental Assisting and Certificate IV in Dental Assisting – Dental Radiography HLT35021,HLT45021

Enter the dental industry with a nationally recognised qualification. Combine the HLT35021 Certificate III in Dental Assisting and HLT45021 Certificate IV in Dental Assisting to become fully qualified in dental assisting and ready to start work in the...

Foundation Education -  Course
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Dental Radiographer +5
Foundation Education -  Course

Certificate III in Dental Assisting + Certificate IV in Dental Assisting HLT35021,HLT45021

Become fully trained in dental assisting with a nationally recognised qualification. The combined HLT35021 Certificate III in Dental Assisting and HLT45021 Certificate IV in Dental Assisting gives you everything you need to work as a professional denta...

Foundation Education -  Course
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Dental assistant +4
Foundation Education -  Course

Certificate III and Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance HLT33021,HLT40321

Turn your passion for helping people into a career in Allied Health Assisting. If you’re ready to advance your career in healthcare support, the HLT33021 Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance and HLT40321 Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistanc...

Foundation Education -  Course
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Allied Health Assistant +5
Foundation Education -  Course

Project Management Fundamentals

Short Course
This is a short course focused on skill based training rather than a nationally accredited certificate or diploma.

In today’s increasingly matrixed work environment, managing projects that cross job functions, geographies, and seniority is increasingly commonplace. Yet it is estimated that up to 70% of projects do not meet their original objectives, stay within the...

AIM Short Courses -  Course
Study Method In-class, Virtual
Location Adelaide South Australia +4
Job Outcomes Project Manager +1
AIM Short Courses -  Course
12328

Online courses also available

Refine Results
Subject
Qualification Level
Institution
Course Category
Looking For A Short Course?
With a huge range of short courses from Australia's leading online providers, you will be sure to find a course that's perfect for you.
Navigator Illustration
Not sure which course to choose? Let us recommend the best courses to suit you!
gator tooltip icon
Our course navigator helps refine thousands of courses into a personalised list that suits you. Click to answer each question, so we can provide you with the best possible courses, tailored to your preferences.
Not sure which course to choose? Let us recommend the best courses to suit you!

Try our navigator tool and find the right course.

Start Here
Navigator Illustration
Avatar photo
Kristen Michaelides
Kristen Michaelides

Kristen is a writer specialising in education and the future of work. She is passionate about bringing industry trends and insights to light to help students and professionals take that next step in their career.

Latest Articles


The Future of Counselling Jobs in Australia

Thinking about a career in counselling? You might wonder—is it a good career choice right now? Will...

Avatar photo
Kristen Michaelides
May 6, 2025
Read More

How to Get Your Counselling Accreditation and Registration

Embarking on a counselling career in Australia offers a fulfilling opportunity to support people in...

Avatar photo
Kristen Michaelides
May 6, 2025
Read More

What Are Counselling Microskills?

Microskills are fundamental communication techniques used to build rapport, actively listen, and gui...

Avatar photo
Kristen Michaelides
May 6, 2025
Read More

Want to read more?


Free Big Five Personality Test: How Do You Score?

Take the free Big Five Personality Test now, learn about your personality type and traits, and disco...

Avatar photo
Michael Yi
Feb 17, 2023
Read More

Making a Career Change as an Older Adult: The Complete Guide

What can you do when career unhappiness is niggling at the back of your mind? As an older adult, you...

Avatar photo
Candlefox
Nov 6, 2020
Read More

The Complete Guide to Changing Careers

It happens all the time and you’re no different, so there’s no need to feel as though you’re on your...

Claudia Reiners
Claudia Reiners
Jan 12, 2018
Read More

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get expert advice, insights, and explainers on tricky topics — designed to help you navigate your learning journey with confidence.

By submitting this enquiry I accept the "Privacy & Policy" and "Terms of Use"
  • Popular Subjects
  • Qualification Type
  • Government Funded Courses
  • Courses by Location
  • Accounting
  • Aged Care
  • Animal Care
  • Beauty
  • Business
  • Business Admin
  • Child Care
  • Community Services
  • Counselling
  • Disability
  • Education
  • Health
  • IT
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Photography
  • Project Management
  • Psychology
  • View More
  • View More
  • South Australia
  • Brisbane
  • Canberra
  • Melbourne
  • Perth
  • Tasmania
  • Victoria
  • Western Australia
  • View More
  • Courses In ACT
  • Courses In NSW
  • Courses In NT
  • Courses In QLD
  • Courses In SA
  • Courses In Tasmania
  • Courses In VIC
  • Courses In WA
  • View More

Newsletter sign up

We'll email you updates on job trends, career advice, study tips, news and more.
Courses
  • All Subjects
  • Online Courses
  • Courses by Location
Education Providers
  • Our Providers
  • What is an RTO?
Government Funded Courses
  • What is a government funded course?
  • Am I eligible?
  • Funding by State
Resources
  • Our blog
About us
  • About training.com.au
  • FAQs
Contact us
  • Advertise your course
  • Become an affiliate
Certified B Corporation
Training AU Facebook Training AU Instagram Training AU Tiktok
Certified B Corporation
Australian Aboriginal flag Torres Strait Islander flag
In the spirit of reconciliation, training.com.au acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Copyright © 2025 Training.com.au
All Rights Reserved.

Newsletter Sign Up

We’ll email you updates on job trends, career advice, study tips, news and more.

By submitting this enquiry I accept the "Privacy Policy" and "Terms of Use"
Back to Top

You are currently visiting our Australian website Training.com.au

Would you like to visit our New Zealand website instead?

Visit Training.co.nz