Where to Look for Experienced Part-Time CFO Consultants in Australia

My name is Layla Taylor, and for the past 35 years, I’ve worked closely with small and medium-sized businesses across Australia. Over this time, I’ve seen just how much effort it takes to run a business. Owners are constantly juggling sales, operations, staff, marketing—and of course, finances.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: managing the financial side of a business can make or break it. And while many owners are brilliant at what they do—whether that’s running a café, a construction company, or a tech startup—they often struggle when it comes to financial strategy.

That’s where part-time CFO consultants come in. They give small and medium businesses access to high-level financial expertise without the cost of hiring a full-time Chief Financial Officer. Over the years, I’ve worked with many business owners who discovered just how valuable these consultants can be.

But the big question I hear all the time is:
“Layla, where can I actually find a good part-time CFO consultant in Australia?”

That’s exactly what I want to share in this guide. Based on my experience, I’ll walk you through why they matter, what they do, and most importantly—where to look for experienced part-time CFO consultants.

Why Do Businesses Need Part-Time CFOs?

I’ve seen businesses of every shape and size. And while their industries are different, their challenges are often very similar:

• Struggling with cash flow despite strong sales.

• Making quick decisions without financial planning.

• Growing too fast and running into funding issues.

• Feeling overwhelmed by tax and compliance requirements.

• Lacking a clear financial strategy for the future.

A part-time CFO steps in as a guide. They don’t just crunch numbers—they help you understand what those numbers mean for your business today, and where you’re heading tomorrow.

For example, I once worked with a family-owned business in NSW that had steady sales but always seemed short on cash. Their part-time CFO built a proper cash flow plan, restructured their debt, and within months, the owners were sleeping better at night. That’s the kind of difference these consultants make.

If managing your books is taking up too much of your time, let Globus Prosourcing take the stress off your plate. As a trusted bookkeeping services provider, we ensure your financial records are accurate, up-to-date, and compliant. Focus on growing your business while we take care of the numbers behind the scenes.

What Exactly Does a Part-Time CFO Consultant Do?

From my years of experience, here’s what a good part-time CFO usually helps with:

1. Cash Flow Management

   • Making sure money is moving in and out smoothly.

2. Financial Forecasting

   • Helping businesses plan for the future, not just survive today.

3. Budgeting and Strategy

   • Setting realistic budgets and aligning finances with long-term goals.

4. Profitability Analysis

   • Finding out which parts of the business are profitable and which are draining money.

5. Funding and Capital Support

   • Preparing financial documents for banks, grants, or investors.

6. Risk Management

   • Identifying financial risks before they become big problems.

7. Compliance

   • Ensuring businesses stay on top of tax and reporting obligations.

In short, they act like a financial partner—someone you can lean on to make informed business decisions.

Where to Find Experienced Part-Time CFO Consultants in Australia

Now, let’s get into the main question: where can you find them? After decades of experience, here are the best places I recommend.

1. Referrals and Word of Mouth

Honestly, some of the best CFO consultants I’ve seen come through recommendations from other business owners. If you’re part of a local business network or industry group, ask around. Business owners love to share contacts when they find someone reliable.

2. Accounting Firms with CFO Services

Many Australian accounting firms now offer CFO consulting services alongside bookkeeping and tax. They often have teams that specialise in small business strategy, giving you both compliance and financial leadership under one roof.

3. Professional Networks

LinkedIn and business networking events can be excellent sources. I’ve met countless talented finance professionals through these channels. Look for CFOs who highlight SME experience rather than just corporate backgrounds.

4. Industry Associations

If your business is part of an industry association or chamber of commerce, check their resources. They often have connections to trusted consultants.

5. Online Business Directories

Websites such as Advisory directories, LinkedIn Services, or even industry-specific directories can point you towards CFO consultants in your region.

6. Cloud Accounting Platforms

Modern accounting software like Xero, MYOB, and QuickBooks maintains directories of certified advisors. Many of them also offer CFO-level support in addition to bookkeeping.

7. Freelance Platforms

Platforms such as Upwork or Expert360 list part-time CFO consultants. While you’ll need to vet carefully, this can be a flexible option for project-based needs.

What to Look For in a Good CFO Consultant

In my 35 years, I’ve seen businesses thrive with the right CFO—and struggle with the wrong one. Here are the qualities I believe matter most:

• SME Experience – They should understand small business realities, not just corporate finance.

• Clear Communication – No jargon. They should explain financials in plain English.

• Trustworthiness – They’ll be handling sensitive data, so trust is vital.

• Technology Skills – They should be comfortable with cloud tools like Xero or MYOB.

• Problem-Solving Ability – Look for someone who focuses on practical solutions, not just reports.

Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring

I’ve also seen mistakes many business owners make when hiring part-time CFOs. Avoid these traps:

1. Choosing based on cost alone – The cheapest option isn’t always the best.

2. Skipping references – Always ask for client testimonials.

3. Not defining needs – Be clear on whether you need cash flow help, growth planning, or funding advice.

4. Overcomplicating things – A good CFO should simplify your finances, not confuse you further.

Real Stories from My Experience

Let me share a few quick examples that I’ll never forget:

• A café owner in Melbourne couldn’t figure out why profits were low despite full tables every weekend. Their part-time CFO showed them how food costs were eating into profits. A few supplier changes later, margins improved dramatically.

• A tech startup in Sydney landed investor funding after their CFO consultant prepared solid financial forecasts. Before that, they were turned away because their numbers weren’t convincing.

• A construction business in regional NSW avoided financial collapse when their consultant helped restructure debt and introduced better project costing.

Each time, the business owners told me: “I wish I had done this sooner.”

Final Advice for Small Business Owners

If you’re a business owner wondering whether to bring in a part-time CFO, here’s my advice after decades of experience:

1. Be honest about your struggles – The right consultant can only help if they know the full picture.

2. Don’t wait until it’s too late – Too many businesses only seek help when cash is already tight.

3. Think of it as an investment – A good CFO will save you money and stress in the long run.

4. Start small if you’re unsure – Even a few hours a month can make a big difference.

5. Choose someone who feels like a partner – You need someone you can trust, not just a service provider.

Closing Thoughts

After 35 years of working with Australian businesses, I can confidently say this: the right financial guidance changes everything.

Part-time CFO consultants give small and medium businesses the chance to access top-level expertise without the big-company price tag. They provide clarity, reduce stress, and help owners make smarter decisions.

And most importantly, they give business owners back their confidence—the peace of mind that comes from knowing their finances are in safe hands.

So, if you’re asking yourself, “Where should I look for an experienced part-time CFO in Australia?”—start with your network, check accounting firms, explore professional platforms, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Because when you find the right person, it won’t just change your business—it will change your life as a business owner.