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How to Become a Registered Tax Agent in Australia: careers in Accounting and Bookkeeping
Definition of a Registered Tax Agent
A Registered Tax Agent is a licensed expert who prepares tax returns and gives tax advice for a fee. You must register with the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB) before charging for any tax agent services. The TPB sets the education, experience, and character tests all applicants must pass.
Day-to-day work includes preparing and lodging income tax returns and advising on tax plans. They also act for clients in ATO matters. They check financial records for errors, find allowable deductions, and file BAS for GST businesses. The role needs precision and up-to-date knowledge of tax law.
Tax agents also play an advisory role. They explain complex tax rules to clients. They model the tax impact of financial choices and help businesses cut their tax load. Building client trust over time is a core part of the job.
Average annual earnings sit at around $95,700 (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025). Experienced specialists can earn $120,000 to $150,000 or more per year (The Tax Institute, 2025). Future demand is strong, with 9.2% projected growth over five years (SEEK, 2025). For those with an accounting degree and a drive for excellence, this is a high-value career. The path to practice is clear.
About the author
Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.
