Accountant for Cafes, Restaurants and Bars in Melbourne
Tight margins, award wages, cash takings and a BAS every quarter. We keep your books, payroll and tax under control and show you where the profit is going.
The short answer
Most hospitality businesses don’t fail on sales. They fail on wages, food costs and cash flow. We set up your POS, payroll and Xero so you see your numbers every week, pay staff correctly under the award, and lodge on time. From 1 July 2026, super must also be paid with each pay run under Payday Super.
What we help with
Payroll & awards
Award rates, penalty rates, casual loading and rosters set up correctly in your payroll software, with Single Touch Payroll.
Payday Super
From 1 July 2026, super is paid with wages each pay run. We set up your payroll and cash flow for it.
Bookkeeping & POS
Square, Lightspeed or other POS linked to Xero, with daily takings, delivery apps and card fees reconciled.
GST & BAS
Restaurant meals are taxable, but some grocery-type items are GST-free. We get the split right and lodge your BAS.
Profit reporting
Weekly or monthly reports on wage %, food and beverage cost % and gross profit, so you can act fast.
Buying or opening a venue
Budgets, finance, lease review with your lawyer, fit-out depreciation and choosing the right structure.
Numbers we help you watch
| Measure | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Wages as % of sales | Usually your biggest cost. Includes super, payroll tax and workers comp. |
| Food and beverage cost % | Shows waste, theft and menu prices that are too low. |
| Delivery app sales after fees | Commissions can wipe out the margin on delivery orders. |
| Cash at bank vs GST, PAYG and super owed | Stops the ATO money being spent on running costs. |
Getting payroll right
Most venues are covered by the Hospitality Industry (General) Award, the Restaurant Industry Award or the Fast Food Industry Award. Underpaying staff is costly: back pay, penalties and, for intentional underpayment, criminal charges since 1 January 2025.
- Check the right award and classification for each staff member.
- Pay penalty rates, overtime and casual loading correctly.
- Pay super with every pay run from 1 July 2026.
- Keep time and wage records for 7 years.
- Watch the Victorian payroll tax threshold ($1 million a year) as you grow or open new sites.
Cash and the ATO
The ATO compares hospitality businesses with its small business benchmarks. If your reported income or costs look out of line, you may be reviewed. Recording all takings, including cash, and keeping clear records is the best protection.
Running a franchise outlet? See our franchise accounting page.
Frequently asked questions
Which award covers my cafe or restaurant?
Usually the Restaurant Industry Award for restaurants and cafes, the Hospitality Industry (General) Award for hotels, pubs and bars, or the Fast Food Industry Award for takeaway. It depends on what your business mainly does. We check this when we set up payroll.
What is Payday Super?
From 1 July 2026, employers must pay super at the same time as wages, rather than quarterly. Super generally needs to reach the fund within 7 days of payday.
Do I charge GST on food?
Meals and drinks served in a cafe or restaurant are taxable. Some basic food sold for people to prepare at home, such as a loaf of bread or a carton of milk, can be GST-free. Hot food and takeaway meals are taxable.
Can I claim my new coffee machine straight away?
Yes, if your turnover is under $10 million and it costs less than $20,000. Each asset is tested separately.
Should I use a company or trust for my venue?
Often a company or a trust with a company trustee, to protect your personal assets and manage tax. Lease guarantees still make you personally liable, so we work with your lawyer on this.
How much do you charge?
We quote a fixed monthly fee based on your sales, staff numbers and what you need.