Compare the true cost
Signs it's time to go full-time
- Finance team of 5+ needing daily leadership
- Revenue above about A$30–50M with multiple entities or states
- Preparing for an IPO or institutional private equity
- Monthly board and investor obligations taking more than 8–10 days a month
Until then, a fractional CFO plus an AI CFO gives you most of the capability at a fraction of the cost. When you do hire full-time, a fractional CFO can run the recruitment and the handover.
Frequently asked questions
When should a company hire a full-time CFO?
Typically above A$30–50M revenue, when preparing to list, or when the finance team needs daily leadership.
Is a fractional CFO as good as a full-time CFO?
For most SMEs, yes. A fractional CFO is often more experienced than the full-time CFO the business could afford, and brings a team behind them.
Can a fractional CFO help hire my full-time CFO?
Yes. We write the brief, assess candidates and run the handover.
What's the true cost of a full-time CFO in Australia?
About A$270,000–A$400,000+ a year including salary, 12% super, payroll tax, bonus, recruitment and on-costs.