Nortax is based in Cairns, Far North Queensland, offering the opportunity to build your career in public practice while enjoying the lifestyle benefits of the region, including a relaxed pace of life, outdoor lifestyle and lower cost of living compared with major cities.
Due to increasing workflow, we are seeking a Graduate / Junior Accountant with prior tax experience to join the firm during an active growth phase.
This role offers hands-on exposure across tax compliance, SMSF work and audit engagements, with the opportunity to grow in responsibility as the practice expands over the next 12 months.
About the Role This is a hands-on role suited to a graduate or junior accountant who has already gained some exposure to Australian tax compliance and is looking to build a career in public practice accounting.
You will work closely with the Principal in an open and collaborative environment where learning, accountability and professional input are encouraged, with early exposure to real client work.
Key responsibilities include Preparation of income tax returns for individuals, companies, trusts, partnerships, and SMSFs Preparation of financial statements for small business clients BAS and IAS preparation and lodgement SMSF compliance work (accounts and tax returns) Workpapers and first-pass preparation of compliance engagements Assisting with client queries and ATO correspondence Audit Assurance Exposure The successful candidate will also gain exposure to: SMSF audits Real estate trust audits Not-for-profit audits and verification engagements Audit experience is not required, and training will be provided.
Systems Software The practice uses contemporary cloud accounting systems including: Xero BGL Simple Fund 360 BGL CAS 360 The practice is also transitioning to Access Practice Management software.
About You Essential Completed,



or near completion of, a Bachelor of Accounting / Commerce Prior experience in an Australian public practice environment (minimum 3 months – internship, part-time role or graduate position) Basic understanding of Australian tax compliance Robust attention to detail and willingness to learn Good written and verbal communication skills Highly regarded Experience preparing individual tax returns or BAS Experience using Xero Exposure to practice management systems such as Xero Practice Manager or Access Practice Management Exposure to BGL Simple Fund 360 or BGL CAS 360 Interest in pursuing IPA or CPA accreditation Culture Opportunity This is an open practice with direct access to the Principal.
We value initiative, accountability and skilled curiosity.
Team members are encouraged to ask questions, contribute ideas and take ownership of their work rather than simply follow instructions.
The role provides exposure to a broad range of work early in your career, including tax, SMSF and audit engagements, with the opportunity to grow in capability and responsibility as the practice continues to expand.
What You Will Gain Exposure to a wide range of tax entities early in your career Direct mentoring from the Principal Exposure to SMSF and audit engagements rarely available in junior roles Broad technical development across tax, business advisory and compliance Salary $60,000 – $70,000 + super, depending on experience.
Salary will be reviewed as experience and responsibilities increase.
Additional Requirements Employment is subject to: Reference checks A satisfactory National Police Check Australian citizenship or permanent residency with unrestricted working rights How to Apply Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your tax experience and what you are looking to develop in your accounting career.

📌 Graduate / Junior Accountant – Public Practice (Tax Experience Required) (Queensland)
🏢 Nortax accountants and advisors
📍 Queensland