In March 2010, the Tax Practitioners Board set out education requirements that impact your registration as a BAS Agent. Previously registration was by notification however from the 29th of February 2012 all BAS agents must meet minimum educational requirements.
For an individual to become (or remain) registered as a BAS Agent the two mandatory BAS agent education requirements are:
awarded at least either a Certificate IV in Bookkeeping or a Certificate IV in Accounting from an RTO (or equivalent); and
successfully completed a course in basic GST/BAS taxation principles that is approved by the Board (BAS Agent Skill Set).
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I already have a Cert IV?
Many Cert IV courses include the BAS Agent Skill Set Units. If you have already completed a Cert IV course, check whether it included the two units below. If not, you can elect to complete these seperately with AIFA.
FNSBKG404A Carry out BAS and IAS
FNSBKG405A Establish and maintain a payroll system
Why have the TPB brought in these requirements now?
The TPB has been given a strong consumer protection function under the legislation they administer. Their goal is to ensure that tax agent and BAS services provided to members of the public on a commercial (fee paying) basis are delivered in a professional and consistent manner. In the long run, the requirement will mean that less desirable and less qualified agents will leave the market leaving more clients for those who are serious about providing great service.
When should I get the new qualifications?
The simple answer is the sooner the better. It is better to start now and achieve your qualifications on a sensible schedule. Imagine trying to rush through training in February 2012 when your clients are screaming for their December BAS to be done! Also, it is likely that clients and prospective clients will start to look for BAS agents with these requirements so by completing the requirements sooner, you can continue to take on new clients without any concerns. If you do need to do a Cert IV, consider that the average time to complete can be as much as 26 weeks depending on your level of experience.
Are there courses that meet all requirements?
Yes - AIFA have compiled a program that will help you to meet all of your requirements.
