Construction & Trades
Accountant for Tradies and Subcontractors in Sydney
Vehicle deductions, BAS, subcontractor management and business structure — we handle the numbers so you can stay on the tools.
Construction and trade businesses in Sydney face specific accounting challenges — project-based cash flow, subcontractor PAYG, vehicle and equipment deductions, and quarterly BAS obligations. ANH Accounting works with sole trader tradies through to multi-crew construction businesses.
Who we help in construction & trades
Electricians, plumbers and carpenters
Sole traders and small companies who need clean BAS, GST set-up, vehicle claims and a tax plan that fits job-by-job income.
Builders and head contractors
TPAR reporting, subcontractor payments, WIP and cash flow across multiple jobs.
Subcontractors working under a head contractor
Contractor versus employee status, ABN compliance and protection against back-liabilities.
The accounting challenges construction & trades face
We have seen these issues repeatedly — and know exactly how to resolve them.
Project-based cash flow
Income arrives in lumps when projects complete. Expenses are ongoing. Managing BAS, super, and tax obligations against irregular cash flow requires careful planning.
Subcontractor payments and PAYG
Paying subcontractors incorrectly — treating employees as contractors — creates significant ATO back-liability. We review your arrangements and ensure correct classification.
Vehicle and equipment deductions
Utes, vans, tools, and equipment have specific depreciation rules. The instant asset write-off threshold changes regularly. We ensure every legitimate deduction is captured without triggering audit flags.
Business structure for growth
Many tradies start as sole traders but a growing business often benefits from a company structure — for tax efficiency, liability protection and easier future sale. We advise on the right timing and structure.
Free 30-minute strategy session
Get clear advice for your construction & trades business
- A registered tax agent reviews your situation
- You leave with at least one practical next step
- No obligation, and we reply within 24 hours
What we do for construction & trades
- Bookkeeping (Xero)
- Quarterly BAS preparation & lodgment
- Payroll & STP compliance
- Vehicle & equipment deductions
- Subcontractor management
- Business structure advice
- Annual tax returns
- ATO correspondence
What you can expect
BAS lodged on time every quarter
Vehicle and tool deductions maximised
Subcontractor arrangements documented and compliant
Cash flow planned around project income cycles
Why construction & trades choose ANH Accounting
Start with a free 30-minute session
We review your situation, identify savings opportunities, and outline exactly what we can do for your construction & trades business — no charge, no obligation.
After hours & weekend appointments available
Rated 5.0 on Google from 36 reviews
What clients say about working with ANH Accounting
Khaled was incredibly professional and prompt in assisting us with our ASIC paperwork. His efficiency and attention to detail made the process seamless. This is the kind of exceptional service everyone desires. Thank you, ANH Accounting, and a special thanks to Khaled!
I recently had the pleasure of working with ANH, and I can confidently say it was a fantastic experience! The quality of service was outstanding, with attention to detail and a commitment to excellence evident in every interaction. I appreciated their transparency throughout the process, making it easy to stay informed and involved.
Khaled was my accountant, very professional and gets the job done quickly. 5 Stars all day.
Common questions from construction & trades
Should a tradie operate as a sole trader or company?
It depends on your income level, risk profile and growth plans. Sole trader is simple but offers no liability protection and can mean higher tax at higher income levels. A company structure at the 25% corporate tax rate may save significant tax once net profit exceeds approximately $120,000. We model both options and advise based on your specific numbers.
How do I manage GST and BAS as a tradie?
If your turnover exceeds $75,000, you must be registered for GST and lodge BAS quarterly. We handle BAS preparation and lodgment, reconcile your accounts monthly, and flag any instalment rate changes so you are never caught short at lodgment time.
How should I pay subcontractors on my jobs?
Subcontractors must provide an ABN — if they don't, you must withhold 47% under PAYG. You should also assess whether the subcontractor arrangement meets the ATO's contractor tests. Incorrect classification as a contractor (when they are actually an employee) can create significant back-liability. We review your arrangements and help you document them correctly.
Do I need to lodge a Taxable Payments Annual Report (TPAR), and when is it due?
If your business pays contractors in the building and construction industry, you generally need to lodge a TPAR with the ATO each year, due 28 August. The report lists what you paid each contractor and their ABN. We collect the data through the year so you are never scrambling in August.
When do I have to register for GST as a tradie?
You must register once your GST turnover reaches $75,000, or earlier if you choose to. Registration affects your pricing, invoices and BAS, so timing matters. We help you register at the right moment and set up Xero so GST is tracked automatically.
Am I a subcontractor or an employee for super and tax?
It depends on the real working relationship, not just the label on your agreement. Factors include who controls the work, who supplies tools and whether you work for one client. A wrong call can trigger super and PAYG liabilities, so we review your arrangements and document them properly.
What can a tradie claim for tools, vehicle and work clothes?
Tradies can claim tools and equipment used for work, protective and branded clothing, licences and insurance, and the work-related portion of vehicle costs, using the cents per kilometre or logbook method. Records are essential. We maximise your claims and keep your evidence audit-ready.
How much should I set aside from each job for tax and BAS?
As a rule of thumb you need to set aside the GST you collect, plus an amount for income tax and super. The right figure depends on your profit and structure. We calculate a percentage for your business and show you how to automate the transfers.
Related accounting specialisations
General information only, last reviewed October 2026. Tax rules and thresholds change, so confirm your situation with ANH Accounting (Registered Tax Agent RN 26258346) before acting.
Ready to get your accounting handled properly?
Book a free 30-minute session with ANH Accounting. We'll review your current situation, find opportunities, and tell you exactly what we can do for your construction & trades business.
Registered Tax Agent RN 26258346 · IPA · IFA · CPA · CA · Xero Certified · Est. 2018