ICB Annual Bookkeeping Survey 2024 Highlights Key Industry Shifts

Bookkeeping rarely makes headlines-but when the profession pauses to reflect on itself, the insights can be surprisingly powerful. The Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) has released its Annual Bookkeeping Survey Report 2024, offering a clear and grounded look at how the profession is evolving across Australia.

Based on responses from 811 participants, the report captures voices from across the bookkeeping ecosystem—professionals working in accounts, finance, payroll, consulting, and even students preparing to enter the field. With over 88% respondents being ICB members, the findings provide a credible snapshot of the profession today and where it’s heading.

Who’s Doing the Work - And Why It Matters

One consistent theme remains unchanged: bookkeeping continues to be a female-led profession, with 88% of respondents identifying as women. Many work independently or in small teams, often valuing flexibility and long-term career stability over rapid job switching.

Interestingly, a significant number of bookkeepers entered the profession early and chose to stay-an indicator that bookkeeping offers not just employment, but sustainability. Vocational education continues to be the dominant entry point, aligning practical training closely with real-world work.

The Bookkeeper’s Role Is Expanding

Perhaps the most important shift highlighted in the report is how the role itself is changing. Traditional responsibilities like compliance, payroll, and BAS remain essential, but many bookkeepers are now stepping into advisory roles.

Clients are increasingly relying on bookkeepers to interpret numbers, flag risks, and support business decisions. This mirrors broader global movements, including how bookkeeping services in inida are also transitioning from transaction-focused work to strategic financial support.

Professional Fees Are Rising - And With Good Reason

The data points to a strong and maturing market. Across bookkeeping, BAS, and high-end consulting services, average hourly rates rose by 7.3% in 2024. This reflects not only rising operational costs, but also the growing complexity and value of professional bookkeeping.

Nationally, the average hourly rate for general bookkeeping services stands at $79.27, with higher rates near capital cities. Geography plays a role, but so does professional credibility.

Why Professional Membership Makes a Difference

One of the clearest takeaways from the report is the impact of professional affiliation. ICB members earn noticeably higher hourly rates than non-members-$79.91 per hour compared to $69.

This gap isn’t just about branding. It reflects access to benchmarks, peer networks, continuous education, and confidence in pricing. Membership appears to empower bookkeepers to charge in line with the true value of their work.

A Profession Built on Trust and Adaptability

The report doesn’t just document the present-it signals what’s next. Bookkeeping in Australia is grounded in trust, strengthened by community, and shaped by practical expertise. As technology advances and regulations evolve, adaptability remains the profession’s strongest asset.

For practitioners, students, and industry partners alike, the ICB Annual Bookkeeping Survey 2024 serves as both a mirror and a roadmap-showing where the profession stands and how it can continue to grow with confidence.