News, analysis and practical guidance for accounting professionals.https://thefirm.media/https://thefirm.media/articles/98-of-accountants-already-use-ai-only-1-in-5-are-doing-it-on-purpose/https://thefirm.media/articles/98-of-accountants-already-use-ai-only-1-in-5-are-doing-it-on-purpose/Despite 98% of accountants using AI, only 21% have a formal strategy or policy in place, leading to inefficiencies. This article explores how firms can optimise AI use, highlighting the importance of structured SOPs and the strategic overlap between existing tech and innovative tools.Wed, 24 Jun 2026 22:11:45 GMTAI in AccountingTwyla Verhelsthttps://thefirm.media/articles/build-apps-without-coding-accounting/https://thefirm.media/articles/build-apps-without-coding-accounting/This article reveals how a chartered accountant, with no coding skills, successfully built 17 apps in a year by leveraging AI and simple planning techniques.Wed, 24 Jun 2026 22:09:40 GMTAI in AccountingMark Wickershamhttps://thefirm.media/articles/accounting-firms-pricing-tool-ai/https://thefirm.media/articles/accounting-firms-pricing-tool-ai/Many accounting firms struggle with pricing, often undervaluing their services due to a lack of structured frameworks. This article highlights the importance of building a comprehensive pricing tool that incorporates context and team knowledge, ensuring accurate pricing that reflects true value.Wed, 24 Jun 2026 22:07:23 GMTAI in AccountingAnderson Peter Georgehttps://thefirm.media/articles/ai-proposal-creation-ignition-mcp/https://thefirm.media/articles/ai-proposal-creation-ignition-mcp/Creating proposals in Ignition can be streamlined dramatically using the new MCP, which connects AI like Claude to automate tasks in just minutes. This innovative approach not only saves time but also allows for conditional pricing updates without the manual hassle.Fri, 19 Jun 2026 01:40:42 GMTAI in AccountingBen Walkerhttps://thefirm.media/articles/ai-aml-risk-assessments-accountants/https://thefirm.media/articles/ai-aml-risk-assessments-accountants/From 1 July, firms must conduct AML risk assessments for clients, but traditional forms can be cumbersome. This article reveals how AI can streamline the process by generating assessments from recorded onboarding calls in just ninety seconds, enhancing efficiency and compliance.Fri, 19 Jun 2026 01:37:58 GMTAI in AccountingCorey Cacichttps://thefirm.media/articles/ai-in-practice-summit-accounting-insights/https://thefirm.media/articles/ai-in-practice-summit-accounting-insights/The AI in Practice Summit offered 18 hours of transformative learning for Lorraine Ellison, a seasoned practice owner who found practical insights on leveraging AI tools for her firm. This free event challenged her expectations, reigniting her ambition to innovate rather than simply delegate.Fri, 19 Jun 2026 01:35:11 GMTAI in AccountingThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/ai-in-practice-summit-recap/https://thefirm.media/articles/ai-in-practice-summit-recap/New to AI? You're in good company. 17 practitioners share how they're using AI in their firms — and how you can take a confident first step, whatever your starting point.Mon, 15 Jun 2026 08:02:01 GMTAI in Practice SummitThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/admin-costs-accounting-firms/https://thefirm.media/articles/admin-costs-accounting-firms/The hidden costs of your admin team can significantly inflate their perceived value, leading to a friction tax that may total around $900k annually.Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:41:04 GMTFirm OperationsDarren Hosioskyhttps://thefirm.media/articles/ai-accounting-month-end-close-claude/https://thefirm.media/articles/ai-accounting-month-end-close-claude/Kayley Perry's article highlights how AI, specifically Claude, is revolutionising the month-end close for a $20 million manufacturing business using NetSuite.Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:37:21 GMTAI in AccountingThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/intuit-cuts-3000-jobs-accounting-ai-impact/https://thefirm.media/articles/intuit-cuts-3000-jobs-accounting-ai-impact/Intuit's recent layoff of 3,000 employees raises concerns about the future of accounting roles in light of AI advancements. However, the cuts primarily affected middle management, not those directly involved in AI development.Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:33:40 GMTAI in AccountingThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/xero-force-month-end-automation/https://thefirm.media/articles/xero-force-month-end-automation/Xero has introduced XeroForce, a no-code agent builder for automating financial workflows, allowing accountants to streamline tasks using plain English.Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:19:38 GMTAI in AccountingThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/unlocking-client-conversations-accounting/https://thefirm.media/articles/unlocking-client-conversations-accounting/The accounting profession has historically focused on financial metrics while neglecting the crucial client conversations that drive relationships. With the emergence of vast data from client interactions, firms can uncover missed opportunities and respond proactively to client needs.Fri, 22 May 2026 01:41:45 GMTAI in AccountingTrent Mclarenhttps://thefirm.media/articles/ai-tool-silos-accounting-firm/https://thefirm.media/articles/ai-tool-silos-accounting-firm/Many accounting firms struggle with SaaS tools that create data silos, hindering productivity and workflow integration. The Xero case study on Shapes highlights the importance of asking the right questions before purchasing tools to ensure they support existing processes.Fri, 22 May 2026 01:36:35 GMTAI in AccountingThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/ai-agent-templates-accounting-firms/https://thefirm.media/articles/ai-agent-templates-accounting-firms/Anthropic's recent release of ten AI agent templates includes five specifically tailored for accounting tasks, such as month-end closing and GL reconciliation.Tue, 05 May 2026 23:41:00 GMTAI in AccountingThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/xero-price-increase-2026-impact-firms/https://thefirm.media/articles/xero-price-increase-2026-impact-firms/Xero's upcoming price increases effective 1 July 2026 will affect all business plans in Australia, including the removal of the multi-organisation discount, which may significantly impact firms managing multiple subscriptions.Tue, 05 May 2026 23:27:00 GMTPricingThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/accountant-thoughts-client-relationships/https://thefirm.media/articles/accountant-thoughts-client-relationships/In a candid reflection, CPA Martin Kamenski highlights a critical issue in the accounting profession: the shift from relationship-building to mere deliverables.Mon, 04 May 2026 23:00:00 GMTAI in AccountingThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/copilot-adoption-in-australian-accounting-firms-the-productivity-is-real-but-the-value-is-uneven/https://thefirm.media/articles/copilot-adoption-in-australian-accounting-firms-the-productivity-is-real-but-the-value-is-uneven/Copilot is improving productivity in accounting firms, but results vary based on how consistently it’s used. Firms that build it into daily workflows see stronger gains, while others see limited impact. The challenge is turning it from a tool into a routine.Fri, 01 May 2026 05:19:00 GMTAI in AccountingNick Fergusonhttps://thefirm.media/articles/ai-accounting-human-connection-efficiency/https://thefirm.media/articles/ai-accounting-human-connection-efficiency/In the era of AI, accounting firms must prioritise creating a cohesive and manageable work environment over simply adding more tools.Wed, 29 Apr 2026 23:15:00 GMTAI in AccountingCorinne Smithhttps://thefirm.media/articles/vibe-coding-integrations-karbon/https://thefirm.media/articles/vibe-coding-integrations-karbon/Firm owners are taking control by creating their own tools to integrate with Karbon, eliminating the need for developers or custom software budgets. This trend highlights the ability to automate workflows and enhance reporting, allowing firms to address specific needs effectively.Wed, 29 Apr 2026 23:00:00 GMTAI in AccountingThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/ignition-mcp-accounting-proposals/https://thefirm.media/articles/ignition-mcp-accounting-proposals/The introduction of the Model Context Protocol (MCP) by Ignition revolutionises proposal workflows by allowing AI assistants like Claude to interact seamlessly with software platforms.Wed, 29 Apr 2026 06:20:00 GMTAI in AccountingTrent Mclarenhttps://thefirm.media/articles/open-banking-changes-accounting-firms/https://thefirm.media/articles/open-banking-changes-accounting-firms/Open banking is transforming how financial data flows between banks and accounting platforms, with significant changes set to take effect as legacy bank feeds shut down by April 2026.Wed, 29 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMTFirm OperationsMeagan Wood and Lara Thompsonhttps://thefirm.media/articles/ai-notetakers-accounting-growth/https://thefirm.media/articles/ai-notetakers-accounting-growth/AI notetakers and meeting assistants are rapidly transforming the accounting landscape by capturing crucial client conversations and context that have historically been lost.Tue, 28 Apr 2026 23:15:00 GMTAI in AccountingThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/claude-cowork-accounting-firms-benefits-costs/https://thefirm.media/articles/claude-cowork-accounting-firms-benefits-costs/Claude Cowork transforms how accounting firms interact with AI by minimising repetitive tasks through its connectors and skills. By linking to existing tools and automating workflows, it streamlines operations and enhances efficiency.Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:35:00 GMTAI in AccountingThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/finance-costs-ai-case-study/https://thefirm.media/articles/finance-costs-ai-case-study/A finance team successfully cut 40% of its operational costs without acquiring new tools by reengineering workflows and reallocating tasks between AI and humans.Wed, 15 Apr 2026 23:37:00 GMTAI in AccountingThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/ai-in-accounting-firm/https://thefirm.media/articles/ai-in-accounting-firm/As AI transforms the accounting landscape, understanding its strategic fit within your firm is crucial. While many firms experiment with tools, a lack of clear direction can lead to fragmented adoption and increased complexity.Fri, 10 Apr 2026 05:01:00 GMTAI in AccountingPeter Sacassanhttps://thefirm.media/articles/jenesys-ai-accounting-journey/https://thefirm.media/articles/jenesys-ai-accounting-journey/The story of Jenesys AI, which recently shut down despite promising innovation in accounting technology, highlights the challenges of building AI tools in a complex environment.Thu, 09 Apr 2026 01:03:00 GMTAI in AccountingThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/benchmarking-client-conversations-accounting/https://thefirm.media/articles/benchmarking-client-conversations-accounting/Benchmarking transforms client conversations by providing context that goes beyond standard financial reports.Tue, 07 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMTClient AdvisoryMatthew Feehanhttps://thefirm.media/articles/structure-before-scale-accounting-growth-strategy/https://thefirm.media/articles/structure-before-scale-accounting-growth-strategy/Tue, 07 Apr 2026 03:47:00 GMTGrowthAmy Holdsworthhttps://thefirm.media/articles/fbt-blind-spots-accounting-firms/https://thefirm.media/articles/fbt-blind-spots-accounting-firms/FBT has traditionally been overlooked by many accounting firms, but recent scrutiny from the ATO is shifting this dynamic, particularly for SMEs.Tue, 07 Apr 2026 03:07:00 GMTAustralian TaxPaul Matherhttps://thefirm.media/articles/ai-accounting-review-self-healing-ledger/https://thefirm.media/articles/ai-accounting-review-self-healing-ledger/The concept of a self-healing ledger revolutionises traditional accounting workflows by integrating AI to detect and rectify discrepancies before the review stage.Tue, 07 Apr 2026 02:58:00 GMTAI in AccountingAndrew Noblehttps://thefirm.media/articles/streamlining-quickbooks-fragmented-workflows/https://thefirm.media/articles/streamlining-quickbooks-fragmented-workflows/Fragmented workflows in growing businesses can hinder efficiency, with multiple systems causing delays and duplicated efforts.Tue, 07 Apr 2026 02:47:00 GMTAI in AccountingDale Pearsonhttps://thefirm.media/articles/hidden-asset-knowledge-ledger-accounting/https://thefirm.media/articles/hidden-asset-knowledge-ledger-accounting/The article highlights that the most valuable asset in accounting firms lies in the conversations with clients, not just in financial reports.Mon, 30 Mar 2026 03:57:15 GMTTips & TricksJordan Vickeryhttps://thefirm.media/articles/one-platform-accounting-firm-efficiency/https://thefirm.media/articles/one-platform-accounting-firm-efficiency/In an era of abundant technology, many accounting firms struggle with inefficiencies caused by fragmented systems. The Intuit Accountant Suite offers a solution by integrating client management, workflows, and insights into a single platform, reducing friction and enhancing productivity.Mon, 30 Mar 2026 03:44:00 GMTAI in AccountingTing Fuhttps://thefirm.media/articles/automation-better-cash-flow-accounting-firms/https://thefirm.media/articles/automation-better-cash-flow-accounting-firms/Automation is essential for improving cash flow in accounting firms, as operational delays, rather than client issues, often hinder timely payments.Mon, 30 Mar 2026 02:54:00 GMTAI in AccountingTyler Caskeyhttps://thefirm.media/articles/abe-2026-side-events-worth-knowing-about-in-sydney/https://thefirm.media/articles/abe-2026-side-events-worth-knowing-about-in-sydney/Wed, 11 Mar 2026 02:51:00 GMTEvents - AustraliaThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/gender-inequity-accounting-practices/https://thefirm.media/articles/gender-inequity-accounting-practices/The article highlights the persistent inequities in the accounting profession and the broader business landscape, particularly regarding women.Fri, 06 Mar 2026 05:02:45 GMTOpinionShaye Thyerhttps://thefirm.media/articles/crunch-2026-australian-accounting-benchmark-data/https://thefirm.media/articles/crunch-2026-australian-accounting-benchmark-data/The Crunch 2026 is Australia’s annual benchmark report for accounting firms. It provides data on AI adoption, pricing, and productivity to help practices stop guessing and start making evidence-based decisions. Register by March 31 for early bird rates to see how your firm compares to the market.Thu, 19 Feb 2026 05:51:00 GMTIndustry NewsThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/hidden-costs-agent-representation-accounting-firms/https://thefirm.media/articles/hidden-costs-agent-representation-accounting-firms/Agent representation has quietly become a high-risk, unpaid burden for accounting firms. As regulatory demands grow, firms are absorbing more work, risk, and stress without pricing it properly, making current compliance models unsustainable.Fri, 30 Jan 2026 23:33:00 GMTComplianceThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/bas-agent-vs-tax-agent-pathways/https://thefirm.media/articles/bas-agent-vs-tax-agent-pathways/This article breaks down the BAS agent and tax agent pathways for overseas-qualified accountants, explaining the differences in scope, risk, and timing, and why many firms recommend BAS registration first to build experience, income, and career momentum.Fri, 30 Jan 2026 07:02:00 GMTTaxThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/payday-super-compliance-payroll-risks/https://thefirm.media/articles/payday-super-compliance-payroll-risks/The introduction of PayDay Super aims to enhance superannuation compliance by mandating that contributions be made on payday. However, many payroll systems expose critical vulnerabilities by relying on a single approver, leading to compliance risks when that individual is unavailable.Fri, 30 Jan 2026 04:28:00 GMTComplianceThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/the-big-four-are-shrinking-mid-tier-firms-are-exploding-the-data-tells-a-wild-story/https://thefirm.media/articles/the-big-four-are-shrinking-mid-tier-firms-are-exploding-the-data-tells-a-wild-story/The latest AFR Top 100 Accounting Firms list reveals a significant shift in the Australian accounting landscape, with the Big Four experiencing a decline while mid-tier firms like BDO and RSM thrive in a hypergrowth phase.Mon, 01 Dec 2025 08:36:00 GMTIndustry NewsThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/build-your-own-tech-stack-with-ai-an-educational-guide-for-accountants-2/https://thefirm.media/articles/build-your-own-tech-stack-with-ai-an-educational-guide-for-accountants-2/Unlock the potential of AI in your accounting practice with this hands-on guide that shows you how to create internal tools efficiently and without coding. Learn from industry experts as they build a pricing calculator in under 30 minutes, demonstrating how to streamline workflows.Mon, 01 Dec 2025 07:42:00 GMTTechnologyThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/is-private-equity-the-only-path-for-accountancy-firms-to-survive/https://thefirm.media/articles/is-private-equity-the-only-path-for-accountancy-firms-to-survive/Sat, 29 Nov 2025 05:54:16 GMTLeadershipScott Heathhttps://thefirm.media/articles/building-a-firm-you-can-sell-or-step-away-from/https://thefirm.media/articles/building-a-firm-you-can-sell-or-step-away-from/Sat, 29 Nov 2025 05:54:16 GMTLeadershipThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/what-solo-and-micro-firms-really-need-to-thrive/https://thefirm.media/articles/what-solo-and-micro-firms-really-need-to-thrive/Sat, 29 Nov 2025 05:54:16 GMTLeadershipThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/hiring-your-first-employee-the-revenue-benchmarks-red-flags-and-growth-tips-for-year-1-2/https://thefirm.media/articles/hiring-your-first-employee-the-revenue-benchmarks-red-flags-and-growth-tips-for-year-1-2/Sat, 29 Nov 2025 05:54:16 GMTCareerThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/the-rise-of-ai-meeting-agents-in-accounting-what-tools-are-firms-actually-using/https://thefirm.media/articles/the-rise-of-ai-meeting-agents-in-accounting-what-tools-are-firms-actually-using/Sat, 29 Nov 2025 05:54:16 GMTOperationsThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/how-much-should-you-charge-clients-to-use-your-office-for-asic-correspondence/https://thefirm.media/articles/how-much-should-you-charge-clients-to-use-your-office-for-asic-correspondence/Sat, 29 Nov 2025 05:54:16 GMTOperationsThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/what-google-gemini-3-0-means-for-the-future-of-accounting-tech/https://thefirm.media/articles/what-google-gemini-3-0-means-for-the-future-of-accounting-tech/Sat, 29 Nov 2025 05:54:00 GMTTechnologyThe Firmhttps://thefirm.media/articles/navigating-ma-as-an-independent-accounting-firm-lessons-from-nikki-and-nigel-adams/https://thefirm.media/articles/navigating-ma-as-an-independent-accounting-firm-lessons-from-nikki-and-nigel-adams/Sat, 29 Nov 2025 05:54:00 GMTM&ANigel Adams