AAPB Members and consumers have become frustrated over the inconsistencies received from the financial services industry. AAPB has received many concerns from consumers who have been poorly treated by bookkeepers and accountants. AAPB has actively lobbied Government to develop policies and standards to protect consumers. AAPB's persistance in the development of standards has already led to The Treasury releasing the "Guidelines for 'working under the direction of a registered tax agent.'" Though we applaud the Government for this initiative, more is required.
As an interim, AAPB Members have formed a committee to develop a nationally recognised bookkeeper standard that is appropriate to the bookkeeping industry. The AAPB bookkeeper standard will provide the industry with clarity, consistency and guidance to achieve efficient processes.
The AAPB booklet (
'Is Your Bookkeeper Putting You At Risk?') provides business owners with a simple 9 point checklist to bring your bookkeeper up the to the professional standard you expect and need.
Background Information
From 2003-2005, AAPB performed extensive investigations into the quality assurance of the bookkeeping industry. Our investigations into the Australian Accounting Standards, the Australian Professional Statements and International Standards (ISO 9001: 2000) identified that there were no nationally recognised standards for the bookkeeping industry.
The investigation was validated by The Treasury, the ATO, Australian Accounting Standards Body, the Accounting Bodies and Standards Australia. To date, noone has been able to provide AAPB with a recognised national standard.
In January 2005, AAPB applied to Standards Australia to become accredited as the Standards Development Organisation for the bookkeeping industy.
In February 2006, AAPB convened a meeting with industry stakeholders to commence the development of a brand new nationally recognised bookkeeper standard. Unfortunately, due to objections raised by Australian Bookkeepers Network (ABN), the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) and the National Institute of Accountants (NIA), the process through Standards Australia was ceased. Interestingly, these parties chose not to attend the meeting.
AAPB has decided to develop a Bookkeepers Code of Practice for its Members. The process is Member driven as they believe this is critcal to setting the standards for our Association and industry.