The Access Group is strengthening its position in the Asia-Pacific accounting software market with the acquisition of ATO SmartDocs, a cloud-based SaaS provider focused on automating Australian Tax Office (ATO) compliance workflows.
The acquisition enhances Access’ practice management portfolio with a platform already trusted by more than 700 accounting firms. Founded in 2015, ATO SmartDocs brings capabilities spanning over 600 tax administration workflows, designed to help firms streamline regulatory obligations and reduce manual processing. Alongside the technology, the deal also brings in 13 employees, including senior leadership, who will continue to develop and expand the platform under Access’ umbrella.
For Access, the move reflects a broader strategy of consolidating fragmented accounting technology tools into a more integrated and scalable ecosystem. It follows the company’s acquisition of Brisbane-based ChangeGPS last year, underscoring its intent to build out end-to-end solutions for compliance-heavy industries like accounting.
Jared Baker, General Manager of Access Accountants, framed the deal as a turning point:
“This platform addresses specific regulatory requirements for Australian accounting firms while creating possibilities for integration with our broader business software portfolio. By bringing ATO SmartDocs into our connected suite alongside HandiSoft, APS, Fathom, ChangeGPS and Elite, we’re delivering on our vision of providing integrated solutions while maintaining open standards.”
Baker also stressed the importance of flexibility and interoperability, confirming that ATO SmartDocs will continue supporting third-party practice management integrations while benefitting from Access’ commitment to open APIs and data portability standards. This ensures firms can continue leveraging existing tools while tapping into Access’ broader ecosystem.
From the ATO SmartDocs side, CEO Ron Drost said the acquisition brings immediate and long-term value to customers:
“Our clients will benefit from market-leading innovation in AI technology via the Access Evo platform, opportunities to explore enhanced product capabilities and integration with broader business management solutions, as well as ongoing investment in Australian regulatory requirements. This partnership delivers immediate value by combining the scale of a global software group with the local expertise essential for our compliance-heavy industry.”
The acquisition arrives at a critical moment for Australia’s accounting sector. Firms are facing mounting regulatory pressure, particularly around compliance with the ATO, and are increasingly turning to automation and AI-driven platforms to stay efficient while reducing risk. By uniting ATO SmartDocs’ compliance-first capabilities with Access’ broader business software suite, the group is positioning itself as a stronger partner for firms navigating digital transformation and regulatory complexity.
As accounting practices across the region continue to embrace cloud-first, compliance-ready platforms, Access’ latest acquisition not only broadens its product lineup but also signals a commitment to driving efficiency, integration, and innovation across Australia’s professional services sector.