Hiring an Accounts Administrator: Permanent vs Contract Options for Employers
23 February 2026
Hiring an accounts administrator? Galaxy Personnel explains permanent vs contract options to help employers choose the right staffing solution.
For Australian businesses, maintaining accurate and compliant financial records is essential to operational stability and long-term growth. As organisations scale or adapt to changing workloads, hiring an accounts administrator becomes a critical decision that directly impacts efficiency, cash flow management, and compliance with Australian financial regulations. Employers must also determine whether a permanent or contract arrangement best aligns with their business needs, budget, and workforce strategy.
Understanding the differences between these employment options allows employers to make informed decisions that support productivity while remaining compliant with Fair Work and Australian Taxation Office requirements.
What Does an Accounts Administrator Do?
An Accounts Administrator plays a vital role in supporting day-to-day financial operations. This position ensures that financial transactions are processed accurately and on time, providing business owners and managers with reliable financial information.
Typical responsibilities may include:
• Processing accounts payable and accounts receivable
• Performing bank and account reconciliations
• Preparing invoices and managing payment schedules
• Supporting payroll administration and expense claims
• Maintaining accurate financial records and documentation
• Assisting with month-end and end-of-financial-year reporting
Hiring an Accounts Administrator: Permanent vs Contract
Before selecting a candidate, employers should consider the structure of the role. Both permanent and contract arrangements offer distinct advantages depending on the nature of the workload and business objectives.
The table below outlines the key differences to support informed decision-making:
| Employment Type | Permanent Accounts Administrator | Contract Accounts Administrator |
| Employment Duration | Ongoing role with no fixed end date | Fixed-term or project-based |
| Flexibility | Lower flexibility once engaged | High flexibility for short-term needs |
| Costs | Salary plus leave entitlements and on costs | Higher hourly rate but limited long-term obligations |
| Business Knowledge | Builds strong organisational knowledge over time | Limited continuity after contract completion |
| Best Used For | Stable, ongoing accounting functions | Peak periods, leave cover, or system transitions |
For employers, hiring an accounts administrator permanently often suits businesses with consistent accounting workloads. Contract arrangements, however, provide flexibility when temporary expertise or immediate support is required.
Which Option is Right for Your Business?
Choosing between a permanent or contract Accounts Administrator depends on several factors, including workload stability, budget considerations, and future business plans. Businesses with predictable financial administration requirements may benefit from a permanent hire who can integrate into company processes and support long-term financial planning.
Conversely, contract roles are well-suited to organisations experiencing seasonal demand, system implementations, or short-term staff absences. For employers uncertain about long-term requirements, hiring an accounts administrator on a contract basis can also provide an opportunity to assess skills and suitability before committing to a permanent arrangement.
Engaging a specialist recruitment partner can further simplify the process by ensuring candidates meet technical, cultural, and compliance expectations.
Supporting Employers with Hiring an Accounts Administrator Solutions
At Galaxy Personnel, we understand that hiring an accounts administrator is a strategic decision that requires the right balance of expertise, flexibility, and reliability. Our recruitment specialists work closely with Australian employers to deliver tailored staffing solutions, whether you require permanent placements or contract professionals.
If you are seeking expert guidance or immediate assistance with your accounting recruitment needs, contact us and learn how our professional staffing services can support your business objectives.
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