“With the increasing number of businesses seeking help, the industry requires more skilled individuals to support small businesses in managing their accounts and meeting compliance obligations,” Platinum Accounting Australia, CEO, Coco Hou CPA said.

Hou emphasised that side gigging not only supports the industry but also offers professionals working in finance and accounts areas in corporates and boutique accounting firms to earn additional income and use the experience as a pathway to build their own business and eventually become a registered tax agent. 

“We are seeing an increasing number of businesses that need bookkeeping and accounting support, and it is putting pressure on the industry. We need more people to step up and help, especially those already skilled and working in corporate accounting,” Hou said. 

“Taking on a side hustle can be a great way to earn more money and for those with an entrepreneurial spirit, it is the perfect stepping stone to starting and growing their own accounting business. 

"Many businesses are in need of experts to assist them to find ways to reduce costs, improve their bookkeeping and get their businesses humming while they grow sales." 

Platinum Accounting Australia, a national chain of bookkeepers and accounting experts, provides a network for professionals to deliver high-quality accounting services, including BAS lodgement and financial reporting. Hou believes that working as a side gigger’ in the accounting field allows individuals to gain hands-on experience with clients while balancing their full-time roles. 

Great way to earn extra income 

“The beauty of a side hustle in accounting is that it provides flexibility and real-world experience,” Hou said. 

“You can start small, build your clientele and eventually turn it into a full-fledged business. The demand for tax agents and bookkeepers is on the rise and there’s a tremendous opportunity for those willing to take the leap.” 

Plenty of flexibility

“Not only is having a side hustle a great opportunity to earn more money, it also provides the ability for people to work on a flexible basis,” Hou said.

“The work can be done at night or on the weekend, which allows people the perfect opportunity to continue working during the day while growing a flourishing side hustle. It really is a win win for everyone.”

Hou encourages accountants and finance professionals looking to move beyond employment to consider side gigs as a strategy for transitioning to business ownership. 

Ideal way to explore business ownership in the sector 

“Building and growing your own business in the accounting sector is an incredibly rewarding experience. For those in corporate roles who want more independence and the ability to work ‘hands-on’ with businesses and owners, taking on a side gig can help them build the foundation for something bigger,” Hou said. 

“There is plenty of support as well for people wanting to take on a side hustle. We offer mentoring, support and guidance as part of our national network.” 

Side hustle provides professional pathway 

“Side giggers can develop the expertise and undergo on-the-job learning helping them to up-skill to lodge business activity statements and eventually become a registered tax agent themselves. We provide this pathway while they are undertaking side gig work and building their own business," Hou said.  

"It also provides significant real-world experience and this is important when working with businesses.  You need to be able to really understand the life and challenges of a business owner and the difficulties of running a small to medium size business.   Industry professionals that have this practical experience are able to provide much better support and are highly sought after."

Plenty of work available 

“With the increasing number of businesses in need of bookkeepers and accounting support and advice, there is plenty of work available for people wanting to take on a side hustle,” Hou said. 

With the accounting and bookkeeping industry under pressure, Hou’s message is clear: now is the time for people working in accounts and finance to step up, not only to support the industry but to take control of their financial future.