Client Agent linking

If you’ve been reading your latest ATO and BAS Agent News (and let’s be honest, if you’re reading this, you probably have), you might have heard a little rumble from the ATO about upcoming changes to how clients link to their tax or BAS agent. Yes, Client Agent Linking is expanding to individuals and sole traders.

Now, before you panic and start imagining yet another digital hoop to jump through, take a breath. Grab a coffee and maybe a Tim Tam. This is actually a good thing.

So, what’s happening?

We all remember the ATO rolling out Client Agent Linking a few years ago. In fact, just saying those words may give some of you PTSD flashbacks. But this was only for ABN entities. Sole traders were excluded. Linking has shown to be a solid fraud-prevention tool, helping stop identity theft and unauthorised access to tax records.

Now the ATO are extending that same protection to individuals and sole traders, which means:

• When someone engages a new agent, or
• The client wants to change what their existing agent can access,

There will be a new authorisation step.

How will it work?

This is the part I actually like. This time, it’s agent‑initiated. That means we start the process. We send a nomination request through Online Services for Agents then the client gets a little nudge from the ATO app or myGov saying: “Hey, your agent wants access. Is that cool with you?”

The client taps yes, and boom, we’re linked. No more mystery agent access. No more “I didn’t know they could see that.” Just clean, transparent authorisation.

Why this matters?

This new step:

• Ensures only authorised agents can access tax info.
• It reduces identity theft and fraud.
• It gives individuals more visibility and control.
• It supports a safer digital environment for everyone.

Honestly, it’s hard to argue with any of that. We’ve all seen the rise in identity-related fraud over the last few years, and anything that helps protect our clients, and our practices, is a win.

What about clients who aren’t digital?

The ATO knows not everyone is living their best paperless life. Alternative pathways are being developed for people who can’t use digital services or need extra support. So no, your lovely seventy-eight‑year‑old founder of a start-up, who still prints every email, won’t be left behind.

When is this happening?

The ATO is taking a slow-and-steady approach.

• Pilot program starts March 2027.
• Full rollout planned for November 2027

Agents who collaborate with individuals and sole traders will soon be invited to express interest in joining the pilot. If you’re the kind of bookkeeper who loves being ahead of the curve (and let’s be honest, most of us do), keep an eye out for where to express your interest. You can even reach out to me if you want to be involved. Being on BASAAG means I can put your name forward to be considered for the pilot program.

What should you do now?

For now, just stay informed. The ATO will keep updating their website and communication channels as rollout gets closer.

And if you’re a sole trader or individual client reading this (hi, welcome, you’re doing great), just know this change is designed to protect you. It’s one extra tap on your phone, but a whole lot of extra security behind the scenes.

Last thoughts from the beach

Bookkeeping is changing (again), but this time it’s in the name of safety, clarity, and giving clients more control. And honestly, that feels pretty aligned with the Beachy Bookkeeping vibe. We’re here to make things easier, safer, and less stressful. This change helps us do exactly that.

If you’ve got questions, want to chat it through, or just need reassurance that the sky isn’t falling, you know where to find me.

Stay cool and hit the beach!