How to Find Remote Accounting and Bookkeeping Jobs

Accounting and bookkeeping are among the professions well suited to remote work. With cloud-based accounting software, digital document management and online communication tools, many financial responsibilities can now be completed without attending a traditional office.

Businesses across Australia rely on accountants, bookkeepers, payroll officers and finance administrators to manage financial records, process transactions, prepare reports and maintain accurate accounts. While some employers still require office attendance, others offer fully remote positions that allow employees to work from home.

For experienced accounting professionals, remote employment can provide an opportunity to maintain an established career while reducing commuting time and gaining greater flexibility. For people entering the industry, junior bookkeeping and accounts administration positions may offer a pathway into finance-related work.

However, finding a genuine remote accounting or bookkeeping job isn't always straightforward. Some positions advertised as remote involve hybrid working arrangements, while others require professional qualifications, specific software experience or registration with an Australian regulatory body.

The key is understanding which roles match your experience and where employers advertise suitable opportunities.

In this guide, we'll explain how to find remote accounting and bookkeeping jobs in Australia, what qualifications you may need, which software skills employers value and how to improve your chances of securing a work-from-home position.

1. Understand the Different Types of Remote Accounting and Bookkeeping Jobs

Accounting and bookkeeping cover a broad range of responsibilities, and employers use different job titles depending on the size of the business and the complexity of the work.

Understanding these distinctions can help you identify positions that match your qualifications and experience.

Remote Bookkeeper

Bookkeepers maintain accurate financial records and help businesses manage their everyday transactions. Responsibilities may include recording income and expenses, reconciling bank accounts, processing invoices and maintaining financial information.

Many small businesses use cloud accounting software, allowing bookkeepers to access records and complete their work remotely.

Some bookkeeping positions involve payroll or BAS-related responsibilities, which may require additional knowledge or professional registration depending on the services being provided.

Remote Accounts Payable Officer

Accounts payable officers help businesses manage money owed to suppliers. Their responsibilities typically include processing invoices, checking purchase orders, reconciling supplier statements and preparing payments for approval.

These positions can be particularly suitable for applicants with experience in administration, purchasing, procurement or business operations.

Although accounts payable roles involve financial information, some employers offer junior positions that don't require a university accounting degree.

Remote Accounts Receivable Officer

Accounts receivable officers manage incoming payments and outstanding customer accounts. They may issue invoices, allocate payments, reconcile customer records and follow up on overdue balances.

These positions often require strong attention to detail, professional communication and familiarity with accounting or business management systems.

Experience in customer accounts, invoicing or credit control can be valuable.

Remote Payroll Officer

Payroll officers help ensure employees are paid accurately and on time. Their responsibilities can include processing timesheets, calculating wages, maintaining leave records and administering payroll-related deductions.

Australian payroll positions frequently require knowledge of employment conditions, superannuation and relevant payroll obligations.

Because payroll errors can have significant consequences, employers often prefer applicants with previous payroll experience or relevant training.

Remote Assistant Accountant

Assistant accountants support more experienced accounting professionals with reconciliations, financial reporting, journal entries and month-end processes.

These positions may require accounting qualifications or progress towards a relevant degree.

They can provide a pathway towards more senior accounting responsibilities.

Remote Financial Accountant

Financial accountants prepare and analyse financial information, assist with reporting obligations and support financial management.

These positions generally require formal accounting qualifications and relevant professional experience.

Some employers also prefer candidates who hold or are working towards CPA Australia or Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand qualifications.

Remote Management Accountant

Management accountants focus on financial information used to support business decisions. Responsibilities may include budgeting, forecasting, analysing business performance and preparing management reports.

These positions often require strong analytical abilities and experience interpreting financial information.

Remote management accounting roles can be found within businesses that operate across multiple locations or use distributed finance teams.

2. Can You Get a Remote Bookkeeping Job Without Experience?

It is possible to enter bookkeeping without previous professional experience, although finding an entry-level remote position can be challenging.

Employers generally want confidence that you understand basic financial processes and can maintain accurate records.

For someone entering the industry, junior accounts administration, accounts payable or finance assistant positions may provide a more accessible starting point than roles requiring independent management of an entire business's accounts.

Experience from other industries can also be relevant.

For example, someone who has worked in purchasing may already understand supplier invoices, purchase orders and payment terms. A retail manager might have experience reconciling transactions, processing refunds and maintaining financial records.

These responsibilities can provide useful foundations for bookkeeping and accounts administration.

However, transferable experience isn't a substitute for the technical knowledge required to complete specialised accounting tasks correctly.

If you're entering the profession, consider developing your understanding of bookkeeping fundamentals before applying for positions involving financial reconciliations, payroll or reporting.

3. What Qualifications Do You Need for Remote Accounting Jobs?

Qualification requirements vary considerably between accounting and bookkeeping positions.

General accounts administration roles may not require a university degree, while professional accounting positions typically expect relevant tertiary qualifications and experience.

Bookkeeping Qualifications

A Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping is a common vocational qualification for people entering the Australian bookkeeping industry.

It can provide foundational knowledge in financial transactions, accounting systems, payroll and bookkeeping processes.

However, completing a qualification doesn't automatically authorise someone to provide every type of accounting or taxation service.

Accounting Degrees

Professional accounting positions often require a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related discipline.

Employers may also look for candidates who are members of, or working towards membership with, professional bodies such as CPA Australia or Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand.

The requirements depend on the position and the responsibilities involved.

BAS Agent Registration

If you intend to provide certain business activity statement services for a fee, you may need registration with the Tax Practitioners Board.

Registration requirements can involve relevant qualifications, experience and other eligibility criteria.

It's important to distinguish between performing bookkeeping tasks as an employee and independently providing regulated BAS services to clients.

For current requirements, visit the Tax Practitioners Board.

Tax Agent Registration

Providing tax agent services for a fee generally requires registration with the Tax Practitioners Board unless an exemption applies.

A bookkeeping qualification or accounting degree alone doesn't automatically make someone a registered tax agent.

If you're interested in offering tax-related services independently, make sure you understand the applicable registration requirements before accepting clients.

4. Learn the Accounting Software Employers Use

Cloud accounting software is one of the main reasons accounting and bookkeeping can be performed remotely.

Rather than relying on paper records or software installed on one office computer, businesses can manage financial information through secure online platforms.

Developing familiarity with these systems can improve your employment prospects.

Xero

Xero is widely used by Australian small businesses, accounting firms and bookkeeping practices.

The platform supports invoicing, bank reconciliation, financial reporting and other accounting processes.

Some employers specifically advertise positions requiring Xero experience.

If you're interested in bookkeeping or accounts administration, becoming familiar with Xero can be a practical starting point.

Xero also provides educational resources through Xero Central.

MYOB

MYOB is another established accounting software provider used by Australian businesses.

Depending on the product, its systems support bookkeeping, payroll, invoicing and financial reporting.

Some employers use MYOB exclusively, while others expect candidates to have experience across multiple accounting platforms.

QuickBooks Online

QuickBooks Online is used by businesses and accounting professionals to manage financial transactions, invoices and reporting.

Although software preferences vary by employer and market, familiarity with QuickBooks can be useful when applying for remote positions with international businesses.

Microsoft Excel

Excel remains an important tool across accounting and finance.

Employers may use spreadsheets for reconciliations, reporting, financial analysis and organising information.

Useful skills include formulas, sorting, filtering, lookup functions and pivot tables.

For more advanced accounting positions, employers may expect stronger spreadsheet and financial modelling abilities.

Enterprise Accounting Systems

Larger organisations may use enterprise resource planning systems such as SAP, Oracle NetSuite or Microsoft Dynamics 365.

These platforms can support finance, procurement, inventory and broader business operations.

Experience with ERP systems may be particularly valuable for remote accounts payable, accounts receivable and financial accounting positions.

5. Where to Find Remote Accounting and Bookkeeping Jobs in Australia

Finding suitable remote finance positions often requires searching across several recruitment channels.

Traditional employment platforms can be useful, but some businesses advertise vacancies directly through their own career websites.

Discover Remote Accounting Jobs on Deskless

Deskless is a dedicated remote job board featuring opportunities sourced directly from Australian and international company websites.

Instead of relying exclusively on major employment platforms, Deskless helps job seekers discover remote vacancies advertised through employer recruitment channels.

This can include accounting, bookkeeping, payroll, finance administration and related positions when available.

New remote opportunities are added daily, and the platform operates through a paid membership model.

Not every vacancy will be suitable for Australian applicants. Some international employers restrict hiring to particular countries or require knowledge of local accounting standards.

Always review the job description to confirm the qualifications, location requirements and employment arrangement.

Explore Remote Jobs on Deskless

Search SEEK, Indeed and LinkedIn

Major employment websites remain useful resources for discovering remote accounting and bookkeeping positions.

Use remote-work filters where available, but read advertisements carefully to confirm whether the role is fully remote or hybrid.

It's also worth searching for several different finance-related job titles.

Explore Accounting Firm Career Websites

Accounting firms may employ remote bookkeepers, accountants and administrative support staff.

Some firms have distributed teams or provide services to clients across Australia.

Research firms that offer cloud accounting, outsourced bookkeeping or virtual finance services, and check their careers pages for vacancies.

Search Company Career Pages

Businesses in technology, ecommerce, professional services and other industries often maintain internal finance teams.

These teams may recruit accounts payable officers, payroll specialists, assistant accountants and finance managers.

Searching company career websites can help you discover positions outside traditional employment platforms.

6. Use Alternative Keywords to Find More Opportunities

One common mistake is searching exclusively for "remote accountant jobs" or "work from home bookkeeping jobs".

Employers use many different titles for finance-related positions, and expanding your search terms can help you discover more opportunities.

Useful searches include:

• Remote accounting jobs Australia
• Work from home bookkeeping jobs
• Remote bookkeeper Australia
• Remote accounts payable officer
• Remote accounts receivable jobs
• Work from home payroll officer
• Remote assistant accountant
• Remote finance administrator
• Remote financial accountant
• Remote management accountant
• Remote Xero bookkeeper
• Remote finance officer

You can also combine job titles with particular industries or software platforms.

For example, searching for "remote Xero bookkeeper" may reveal positions requiring Xero experience, while "remote ecommerce accountant" can help identify finance roles supporting online retailers.

If you're entering the industry, consider searching for junior accounts administration and finance assistant positions alongside dedicated bookkeeping roles.

7. Understand the Difference Between Fully Remote and Hybrid Accounting Jobs

Accounting is well suited to remote work, but not every accounting position allows employees to work from home full-time.

Some employers offer hybrid arrangements requiring staff to attend an office several days per week.

Others allow remote work for most of the month but expect employees to attend during particular reporting periods, meetings or training sessions.

Accounting firms may also require occasional client visits.

Before applying, check whether the position is fully remote, hybrid or temporarily home-based.

You should also review any geographic restrictions.

A position advertised as remote may still require employees to live within a particular state or country.

International accounting positions can involve additional requirements relating to local accounting standards, taxation systems and working hours.

If the advertisement is unclear, contact the employer to confirm the arrangement before spending time preparing an application.

8. How Much Do Remote Accounting and Bookkeeping Jobs Pay?

Accounting and bookkeeping salaries vary depending on qualifications, experience, responsibilities and the employer.

An entry-level accounts payable officer will generally have different earning expectations from an experienced financial accountant or finance manager.

Specialised knowledge can also influence compensation.

For example, positions involving complex payroll, financial reporting, taxation or enterprise accounting systems may require additional expertise.

When comparing opportunities, consider whether the advertised amount is an annual salary, hourly wage or contractor fee.

Check whether superannuation is included or additional, and whether the position is permanent, casual or contract-based.

Some accounting and clerical positions are covered by modern awards or enterprise agreements that establish minimum employment conditions.

For current Australian pay information, visit the Fair Work Ombudsman.

Remote work doesn't automatically mean accepting lower compensation. Pay should reflect the responsibilities of the position, your qualifications and applicable employment requirements.

9. Should You Work as an Employee or Freelance Bookkeeper?

Remote bookkeeping can involve traditional employment or independent contracting.

Both arrangements have advantages, but they involve different responsibilities.

Working as an Employee

An employed bookkeeper generally works for a business or accounting firm under an employment agreement.

The employer determines the responsibilities, working arrangements and compensation.

Eligible employees receive applicable employment entitlements, including minimum wages, leave and superannuation.

Employment may be suitable if you prefer predictable income and don't want to spend time finding your own clients.

Working as a Freelance Bookkeeper

Freelance bookkeepers provide services to businesses as independent contractors.

They may work with several clients and negotiate their own fees and service agreements.

This arrangement can provide greater flexibility, but it also involves finding clients, managing invoices, maintaining business records and meeting tax obligations.

Freelancers must also ensure they're appropriately qualified and registered for any regulated services they provide.

Importantly, describing a worker as a contractor doesn't automatically determine their legal employment status.

If you're considering freelance bookkeeping, make sure you understand the relevant business and professional obligations before offering services.

10. Create a Resume for Remote Accounting and Bookkeeping Jobs

Your resume should demonstrate accuracy, financial knowledge, organisational skills and familiarity with relevant systems.

Employers want confidence that you can handle financial information responsibly and complete tasks within required deadlines.

Start with a professional summary that highlights your experience and the type of position you're seeking.

For example, an experienced bookkeeper might write:

"Detail-oriented bookkeeping professional with experience managing accounts payable and receivable, performing bank reconciliations and maintaining accurate financial records. Confident using cloud accounting software and supporting businesses with day-to-day financial administration."

If you're entering the industry from another profession, focus on transferable experience.

Someone with purchasing or procurement experience might highlight supplier invoice processing, purchase order reconciliation and maintaining financial records.

A retail manager could emphasise cash reconciliation, transaction processing and financial reporting responsibilities.

Include relevant software skills, particularly Xero, MYOB, Excel and any ERP systems you've used.

Where possible, demonstrate measurable achievements, such as improvements to processing accuracy or experience managing substantial transaction volumes.

Avoid exaggerating your qualifications or claiming professional registrations you don't hold.

11. Prepare for Remote Accounting Interviews

Accounting and bookkeeping interviews often assess technical knowledge, attention to detail and your ability to manage financial responsibilities independently.

Employers may also ask about your experience with particular software platforms.

Some recruitment processes include practical assessments involving reconciliations, spreadsheet tasks or accounting scenarios.

Common Interview Questions

How do you ensure accuracy when maintaining financial records?

A strong response should explain how you follow established procedures, verify source information and review completed work.

You might describe your approach to reconciling accounts or identifying discrepancies.

What accounting software have you used?

Discuss your experience with platforms such as Xero, MYOB, QuickBooks or enterprise accounting systems.

Be specific about the tasks you've performed rather than simply listing software names.

How do you manage competing deadlines?

Accounting and finance teams often work towards recurring reporting and payment deadlines.

Explain how you organise responsibilities, prioritise urgent tasks and communicate when additional support is required.

How do you handle confidential financial information?

Employers want confidence that you understand the importance of privacy and information security.

Discuss your approach to secure systems, appropriate access controls and following company procedures.

How would you work effectively as part of a remote finance team?

Explain how you communicate progress, maintain accurate documentation and collaborate with colleagues through digital platforms.

If you haven't worked remotely before, use examples demonstrating independence and reliability in previous positions.

12. Understand the Security Requirements of Remote Finance Work

Remote accounting and bookkeeping employees often handle sensitive financial information.

This can include bank account details, payroll records, customer information and confidential business reports.

Employers may therefore have strict requirements relating to devices, networks and information security.

Some businesses provide company-managed computers and require employees to access financial systems through approved software.

Others may use multifactor authentication, secure document storage and restricted access permissions.

If you're working as an independent bookkeeper, you may be responsible for establishing appropriate security practices within your own business.

Avoid storing confidential client information on unsecured personal devices or sharing account credentials.

Understanding information security can help demonstrate professionalism during recruitment and reduce risks when working remotely.

13. Consider International Remote Accounting Opportunities

Some international businesses recruit remote accounting and finance professionals.

These positions can provide additional opportunities, particularly for applicants with experience using internationally recognised accounting platforms.

However, international roles often involve specific eligibility requirements.

An employer may only recruit applicants who have work authorisation in a particular country or who understand its accounting and taxation systems.

For example, a US-based accounting position may require familiarity with US generally accepted accounting principles, payroll requirements or tax procedures.

Working hours can also be a consideration.

An Australian employee supporting an overseas finance team may need to attend meetings outside standard Australian business hours.

Before applying, confirm the location requirements, employment arrangement, currency of payment and any relevant professional qualifications.

A job advertised as remote doesn't automatically mean it's open to applicants worldwide.

14. Avoid Remote Accounting and Bookkeeping Job Scams

Although legitimate remote finance positions are available, job seekers should remain cautious when evaluating unfamiliar employers.

Some fraudulent advertisements impersonate accounting firms or established businesses.

Others attempt to obtain personal information, banking details or access to financial accounts.

Be particularly cautious if someone offers employment without a meaningful recruitment process or asks you to transfer money through your personal bank account.

A legitimate accounts payable or bookkeeping position should involve clear responsibilities and appropriate financial controls.

You should never be expected to use your personal bank account to receive or transfer business funds as part of an ordinary bookkeeping job.

Before sharing sensitive information, independently verify the employer using its official website.

The Australian Government's Scamwatch provides information about employment scams and how to recognise suspicious offers.

15. How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Hired

Finding a remote accounting or bookkeeping job can take time, particularly when you're applying for positions that attract candidates from across Australia.

However, a targeted approach can improve your chances.

Begin by identifying the finance roles that match your qualifications and experience.

If you're entering the industry, focus on junior accounts administration, accounts payable or finance assistant positions.

If you're an experienced bookkeeper, consider roles involving cloud accounting, reconciliations and ongoing financial administration.

Develop familiarity with the software commonly used in your preferred positions, particularly Xero, MYOB and Excel.

Prepare a resume that demonstrates accuracy, reliability and relevant financial responsibilities.

Expand your search beyond traditional employment websites by researching accounting firms, company career pages and specialist remote job boards.

When you find a suitable vacancy, tailor your application to the employer's requirements rather than sending the same generic resume to every business.

Finally, track your applications and review which types of positions generate interviews.

This can help you identify where your experience is most competitive and refine your job search.

16. Build a Long-Term Career in Remote Accounting

Accounting and bookkeeping can provide several opportunities for professional development.

Someone entering the industry through accounts administration may eventually progress into bookkeeping, payroll or assistant accounting positions.

With additional qualifications and experience, professionals may move into financial accounting, management accounting, financial analysis or finance management.

Experienced bookkeepers may also choose to establish their own businesses, subject to the relevant professional and regulatory requirements.

Cloud accounting technology can make it possible to support businesses across different locations, but career progression still depends on developing technical knowledge and professional judgement.

If your long-term goal is to build a remote finance career, consider employers that provide training, professional development and opportunities to take on more complex responsibilities.

Your first remote accounting or bookkeeping position can provide valuable experience that supports future career opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a remote bookkeeping job in Australia with no experience?

Yes. Some employers offer junior bookkeeping, accounts administration and finance assistant positions. However, basic accounting knowledge, spreadsheet skills and familiarity with relevant software can improve your chances.

Do I need a degree to become a remote bookkeeper?

A university degree isn't generally required for basic bookkeeping roles. However, relevant vocational qualifications may be useful, and certain services require professional registration.

Can accountants work fully remotely?

Yes. Many accounting responsibilities can be performed remotely using cloud accounting software and digital communication tools. However, some employers require hybrid arrangements or occasional office attendance.

What accounting software should I learn?

Xero, MYOB, QuickBooks and Microsoft Excel are useful platforms to understand. Larger employers may also use enterprise systems such as SAP, Oracle NetSuite or Microsoft Dynamics 365.

Do I need to be a registered BAS agent to work as a bookkeeper?

Not for every bookkeeping position. However, providing certain BAS services for a fee generally requires registration unless an exemption applies. Check the Tax Practitioners Board's requirements for your circumstances.

Can Australian accountants work remotely for overseas companies?

Some international employers accept Australian-based applicants, but eligibility varies. Positions may require knowledge of foreign accounting standards, local qualifications or particular working hours.

Are remote bookkeeping jobs suitable for part-time work?

Some employers offer part-time bookkeeping and accounts administration positions. Freelance arrangements may also provide flexibility, although income and workload can vary.

Where can I find legitimate remote accounting jobs?

You can search accounting firm career websites, company recruitment pages, SEEK, LinkedIn, Indeed and dedicated remote job boards such as Deskless.

Final Thoughts

Finding a remote accounting or bookkeeping job in Australia is a realistic goal for professionals with relevant financial skills and experience.

Cloud accounting software has made it possible for businesses to manage many financial responsibilities remotely, creating opportunities across bookkeeping, payroll, accounts administration and professional accounting.

However, not every position is fully remote, and qualification requirements vary significantly depending on the responsibilities involved.

If you're entering the industry, focus on developing foundational accounting knowledge, spreadsheet skills and familiarity with commonly used software.

If you're already experienced, highlight your technical expertise, accuracy and ability to manage financial responsibilities independently.

Most importantly, expand your search beyond traditional employment websites. Many accounting firms and businesses advertise vacancies directly through their own career pages, and exploring these opportunities can help you discover employers you might otherwise overlook.

Ready to find your next remote accounting or bookkeeping opportunity?

Explore remote jobs on Deskless and discover positions sourced directly from Australian and international company websites.

Find accounting, finance, administration and other remote opportunities beyond traditional job boards and take the next step towards building a more flexible career.