Guides · 15 October 2026
Fractional CFO in Brisbane: what you get and what it costs
A fractional CFO is a senior finance person you share with other businesses. You get the thinking without the $250k salary. Here’s how to judge whether it’s worth paying for.
What they actually do
- Cash flow forecasting and a monthly look at the numbers that matter
- Pricing and margin reviews
- Planning for tax, wages and big purchases before they happen
- Bank and finance conversations
- A sounding board for hiring, growth and exit decisions
How it differs from your accountant
Your accountant and bookkeeper look back: compliance, tax returns, BAS. A CFO looks forward. Most businesses keep all three. Our earlier guide, when to bring in a fractional CFO, covers the warning signs.
How pricing usually works
Most Brisbane providers charge a fixed monthly fee scoped to the work, some offer a one-off project first, and a few still bill hourly. Prices vary widely with the size of the business and how often you meet. Ask for a written scope with deliverables and meeting frequency so you can compare like with like.
Is it worth it?
A simple test: name two decisions in the next 12 months where better numbers could be worth more than the annual fee. A price change, a hire, a vehicle or equipment purchase, a tax position. If you can’t, it may be too early, and good bookkeeping plus a tax plan might be enough.
Questions to ask any provider
- Who will I actually work with, and how often?
- Who is the registered tax agent behind any tax work?
- What do I get each month, in writing?
- Can I stop at any time?
Where PRM fits
PRM works with Brisbane owner-run businesses on year-round guidance, and runs PRM Rising for businesses under $2M. Book a 15-minute chat to see if it fits.
Quick answers
What is a fractional CFO?
A part-time chief financial officer shared across several businesses, usually on a fixed monthly fee.
Do I still need an accountant if I have a fractional CFO?
Usually yes. The accountant handles compliance and tax returns; the CFO focuses on forward-looking decisions.
Want to see your own numbers?
If you were sent a pack with a code, enter it on the Got a code? page to open the calculators. Otherwise, book a 15-minute chat with Tereza or take the free business tax health check.
General information only. This doesn’t take your circumstances into account and isn’t tax, financial or legal advice. Talk to your accountant or registered tax agent before acting. PRM is not a registered tax agent; tax agent services are provided by Australian Tax & Super Pty Ltd (TPB 25291395).