What to Look For
The key qualities that separate great R&D advisors from the rest
Industry Credentials
Ensure your advisor has a strong history of successful R&D Tax Incentive claims. Ask for case studies or references. Some R&D Advisors may also be registered under the tax practioner board, but this is not a requirement.
Relevant Industry Experience
An advisor who understands your sector, whether it's SaaS, biotech, or manufacturing, will identify eligible activities faster and more accurately.
Transparent Pricing
Look for clear fee structures: fixed fee, percentage of claim, or hybrid. Understand exactly what's included before you engage.
End-to-End Support
The best advisors handle everything from eligibility assessment and documentation to AusIndustry registration and ATO compliance.
Strong Communication
Your advisor should explain the process clearly, provide regular updates, and be responsive when you have questions.
Firm Size & Capacity
Consider whether you need a boutique specialist or a larger firm. Make sure they have the bandwidth to prioritise your claim.
How to Choose
A simple process to find the advisor that's right for you
Define Your Needs
Start by understanding your R&D activities, estimated claim size, and timeline. This helps you shortlist advisors with the right expertise.
Research & Shortlist
Use our directory to filter advisors by industry, location, and firm type. Read verified reviews and compare profiles side by side.
Request Consultations
Reach out to 2–3 advisors for an introductory call. Most offer a free initial consultation. Use it to gauge fit and expertise.
Compare & Decide
Evaluate advisors on experience, communication style, pricing, and client references. Choose the one that aligns with your business goals.
Define Your Needs
Start by understanding your R&D activities, estimated claim size, and timeline. This helps you shortlist advisors with the right expertise.
Research & Shortlist
Use our directory to filter advisors by industry, location, and firm type. Read verified reviews and compare profiles side by side.
Request Consultations
Reach out to 2–3 advisors for an introductory call. Most offer a free initial consultation. Use it to gauge fit and expertise.
Compare & Decide
Evaluate advisors on experience, communication style, pricing, and client references. Choose the one that aligns with your business goals.
What Size Firm Is Right for You?
The best advisor isn't always the biggest. It's the one that matches your stage, complexity, and budget.
R&D Expenditure
Sole Trader Advisory (≤ $100K) : Best for very early-stage companies with straightforward R&D activities and smaller claims (under $100K). You'll typically get direct access to the person doing the work, with lower fees and faster turnaround. Ideal if your R&D is focused on a single project.
Small Business ($100K to $5M) : A strong choice for startups and SMEs with moderate R&D spend. Small firms often specialise in specific industries (like software or biotech) and bring deep domain expertise without the overhead of a large practice. Expect hands-on service and competitive pricing.
Medium Firm ($500K to $10M) : Suited to established companies with multiple R&D projects or cross-disciplinary activities. Medium firms have broader teams covering both technical and tax expertise, and can handle more complex claims including overseas findings and multi-entity structures.
Large Firm ($1M+) : Best for enterprise-scale operations with significant R&D expenditure, complex corporate structures, or high audit risk. Large firms offer dedicated teams, robust audit defence, and can manage claims across multiple jurisdictions. Fees are higher, but the rigour can be worth it at scale.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about working with R&D tax advisors