Professional Advisors for Industry Specialists
"Work ON the business, not IN the business."
We all know the saying, but how often do you really do it?
So many times we hear from doctors, mechanics, lawyers, financial planners and many other professionals who just don’t have the time to look after their high-level financial needs. At The Garis Group, we have a wealth of experience providing professional services to firms in Newcastle and beyond. Helping them to achieve their short-term, medium-term and long-term goals.
Drawing on our deep knowledge of your industry means that when you talk to us, we understand your operational challenges as well as your business needs.
You’re great at your job, and we’re great at ours. So, whether you want basic bookkeeping and tax filing or a full-service CFO on call, get in contact with us and find out how our flexible service packages will fit your needs. Contact us today on (02) 4969 4699 to learn more.
We are members of The Institute of Public Accountants -Australia’s leading Professional Accounting Organisation dedicated to small and medium businesses.
Our Chartered Accountants have undergone rigorous professional training ensuring only the highest level of service and knowledge.
Why Choose Us?
Clear financial reporting and long-term planning are critical for firms delivering high-trust professional services. We help you stay in control of your obligations and aligned with your broader business goals — without the guesswork.
- Planning that drives results: We support proactive decision-making through structured planning tools, benchmarking, and financial performance analysis tailored to your industry.
- Confidence in compliance: With ongoing support across tax, superannuation and reporting, we help reduce stress around regulation and free up space to focus on your clients.
- Advice that grows with you: From foundational support to virtual CFO services, our team works alongside you to align financial strategy with your growth path and operating model.
Whether you’re running a specialised practice or a multidisciplinary firm, we deliver support that fits your scale, stage and aspirations — not just your spreadsheets.
John Garis | Managing Director
BCom – University of Newcastle
MIPA AFA
Registered Tax Agent
Certified Xero Adviser
Joining The Garis Group in 2004 as a trainee accountant under the guidance of then principal and founder Jim Garis, John has progressively increased his experience and knowledge at the firm over the past 16 years and now holds the role of Managing Director at The Garis Group.
During this time, John completed a Bachelor of Commerce degree, majoring in Accounting at the University of Newcastle. John is a registered tax agent and also holds membership with the Institute of Public Accountants (IPA) & with the Tax Institute of Australia.
Born and bred Novocastrian, John has lived in the great city of Newcastle all his life and has a great passion for helping individuals and small businesses thrive in our community so they can achieve all their financial goals!
"Our purpose here at The Garis Group is to help our clients create a beautiful financial future for themselves, their families and the people around them so that together we create a huge and lasting impact in our world.”
John & his lovely wife Aylin were married at the Burwood Rotunda in Whitebridge overlooking Dudley beach in Oct 2011 and are also very proud parents to their son Charlie who is now 6 and two cavoodle fur babies Quinnie and Benji.
Inspired by author & motivational speaker Simon Sinek, John says “his visionary thinking and rare intellect inspires business owners worldwide to think differently and challenge the status quo”
“We seem to, in business & life sometimes follow the same pattern over and over again expecting things to be different or magically change to something better than the day before. Simon is able to clearly analyse these patterns and succinctly diagnosis them with very simple solutions & strategies to make you think differently about business and life in general which inspires you to make the changes you need to make to feel fulfilled and ultimately a better version of yourself which inspires others around you.”
Book in for a friendly chat with John and the team, and begin the journey towards a beautiful financial future.
Flexible Accounting Packages For Your Business
In our initial (free) consultation we will help you understand which package best suits your needs, and which add-ons may or may not be useful to you now, and in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is accounting for professional services, and how is it different from general accounting?
Accounting for professional services focuses on the unique financial needs of industries like law, consulting, financial planning, and healthcare. Unlike general accounting, it often involves tracking billable hours, managing project-based income, and confirming compliance with industry-specific regulations. Key aspects include cash flow management, tax planning, and strategic financial advice tailored to the operational demands of professional services firms. This specialised approach supports professionals in managing their finances efficiently while addressing challenges like fluctuating revenue streams and complex reporting requirements. By tailoring accounting practices to their needs, professionals can optimise their operations and achieve long-term financial goals.
How can accounting support the success of professional services businesses?
Accounting provides the financial tools and insights needed to support the success of professional services businesses. Accurate financial reporting and cash flow management help businesses track profitability and make informed decisions. Tax planning and compliance services confirm that businesses meet regulatory obligations while optimising their tax position. Performance benchmarking allows firms to measure success against industry standards, identifying areas for improvement. Strategic advice on budgeting, pricing, and resource allocation helps businesses grow sustainably. With tailored accounting support, professional services firms can streamline operations, improve financial clarity, and focus on delivering value to their clients.
Why should professional services firms seek accounting support?
Professional services firms face unique financial challenges, such as managing billable hours, fluctuating income, and compliance with industry-specific regulations. Professional accounting support addresses these needs by providing tailored solutions for bookkeeping, tax planning, and financial reporting. Accountants with knowledge in professional services can offer insights into improving cash flow, optimising pricing strategies, and managing growth effectively. By alleviating administrative burdens, professional accounting allows professionals to focus on their core services while promoting financial stability. For businesses seeking clarity, compliance, and strategic growth, professional accounting support is an invaluable resource.
Professional Firms We Work With
