Small School Business Services

Working with small schools since 2012

Specialised Accounting Services for Independent Schools Australia-wide

SSBS grew out of the challenge that small schools often face when looking for specialised accounting and bookkeeping support, particularly in regional areas. Partnering with SSBS allows schools to reduce the administrative burden on Principals and Business Managers while having access to a skilled team with over ten years of experience working with alternative and small schools in the independent sector.

Finance & Accounting Services

Annual Service Agreement activities

Budget Forecasts
Compliance with the ATO, and State and Federal Departments of Education
Audit Preparation
Asset Recording
School Board Reporting
Payroll*
Bookkeeping*
Cashflow Management
Monthly, Quarterly and Annual compliance including BAS/GST obligations*

Special Project activities

Capital works funding applications and acquittals
Fringe Benefit Tax obligations
Financial viability statements for new schools, additional year levels and campuses
Financial scenario reports
Financial ratio development and reporting

* BAS Agent work is completed by Small School BAS Services

Compliance Services

Victorian schools only

Policy development and review
Policy related work processes
Tailored policy review schedule and compliance calendar
Maintenance of compliance register templates
Data collections for state and federal governments
ACNC reporting
Insurance questionnaires
Quarterly compliance updates

New School Start-up Support

New school registration advice
Policies required for minimum standards
Development of governance processes
Navigating town planning and building requirements
Assistance with the preparation of staffing budgets
Understanding how school funding works
Activities to manage Child Safety compliance
Enrolment Agreements and processes
Mentoring of school founders and start-up groups

Our Team

The SSBS team are specialists in working with small and alternative schools. We understand the importance of compliance while aiming to keep things uncomplicated and practical.

School Start-up Support
Fiona McKenzie - Director

Fiona is a passionate educator who has established three independent schools in Victoria since 2012. Supporting other small schools and new school start-ups through SSBS is another great way to continue to expand the options for children and young people around Australia.

"The requirements to get a new school started in Victoria are becoming increasing complex. Without any start-up support, it can easily become an overwhelming experience. Now there is help available, don't hesitate to reach out."

Financial Services
Natasha Rhodes - Lead Accountant
Hannah McGrath - Finance Assistant

Natasha has had a successful career as both a Public Practice Tax Accountant and a Finance Manager in numerous businesses and independent schools. Combining her BAS agent registration and small school experience, Natasha joined SSBS in 2014 to use her unique combination of skills and experience in a new way.

Natasha works with Hannah McGrath in our Financial Services Team.

"Not all accountants understand the industry specific complexities of running an independent school. State and Federal Government regulations are very specific. Working with SSBS can make that part of running a school so much easier."

Compliance Support
Kelly Kirkpatrick - Compliance

Kelly heads-up the newest area of SSBS services, supporting Victorian schools in their compliance with state-based regulations.

"Schools are certainly at the forefront of society's increasing complexity, and navigating an increasing number of policies and regulations can be daunting. Having support to navigate all the incoming compliance information makes it much more doable for a small school."