Accountants disappointed by lacklustre take-up of Standard Business Reporting scheme

Accountants and SMEs are disappointed by the less-than-stellar performance of the Governments’ new Standard Business Reporting scheme, with only 25 lodgements recorded so far.

But representatives say the problem lies in the software industry’s take-up of the platform and suggest reports will increase as more businesses integrate the service with their own products.

CPA Australia spokesperson Paul Drum says he was surprised to hear the take-up was so low but suggests this is because, “the software houses haven’t got their act together”.

“So many people can’t use the service with their current software, and until that connection has been made, the reports aren’t going to happen. I’m actually quite surprised the software providers haven’t been able to update their products for it yet. It was launched on July 1.”

The multi-million Standard Business Reporting platform allows businesses to pre-fill dozens of forms to save hours of work and money. These reports include BAS forms, PAYG summaries, tax file declarations, payroll tax returns and others.

But Council of Small Business of Australia chief executive Peter Strong confirms only 25 lodgements have been made. Drum says it looks as though we won’t see any solid performance until 2011, when more software companies jump on board.

“There won’t be good polling because no one is using it, although it’s a terrific platform. I don’t want to nominate a particular brand that isn’t integrating the service, but the software here is the main reason.”

Strong says the Government is aware of the issue but isn’t worried. He says that as more software providers start updating their programs with the ability to lodge, the awareness will grow and SMEs will be more comfortable with using such a service.

“I’ve delved into it with treasury, and they say they have a four year plan to get people on board. The biggest issue is the take-up with software developers, because if you have MYOB you can’t use the platform.”

“The thing that’s surprised me is the lack of interest from big businesses. But with regards to software developers I know Quickbooks has jumped on board, so you would hope to see an increase in people lodging. It’s going to take longer than few months.”

Marc Peskett, partner at accounting advisory firm MPR Group, also believes many accountants are stuck in their ways and are resistant to change, so it could be some time before lodgements increase.

“I think accountants already have their systems in place, and they lodge forms online already, so there is no need to change from their point of view. It’s a great platform, but maybe there is no particular drive for them to change.”

Treasury was contacted for comment, but no reply was received due to the Labor Day public holiday.