The Bookkeeping Buddy: How Philippa Rickards is Giving Time and Power Back to Small Business Owners

Most people don't dream of spreadsheets — but Philippa Rickards isn’t most people. In fact, what many small business owners see as a daunting chore, she sees as an opportunity for transformation. From her base in Victoria, Australia, Rickards has built My Bookkeeping Buddy not just as a financial service, but as a lifeline for overwhelmed entrepreneurs.

From Overload to Order: A Purpose-Driven Launch

The idea behind My Bookkeeping Buddy was born out of real-life challenges and empathy. In 2015, after witnessing countless small business owners crumbling under the weight of financial confusion, Philippa decided to change the narrative. She wasn’t offering “just bookkeeping.” She was offering relief.

"I witnessed entrepreneurs exhausting themselves while attempting to handle their books. I wanted to give them back time, which is something they never have enough of," says Philippa.

What began as a solo venture has evolved into a trusted, remote-first solution across Melbourne, Geelong, Ballarat, and beyond — empowering coaches, consultants, creatives, and founders alike.

Tailored Support, Not Templated Services

In a sea of one-size-fits-all accounting solutions, My Bookkeeping Buddy stands apart for its hyper-personalised approach. From payroll and superannuation to compliance reporting and strategic advisory, every client receives a solution tailored to their specific journey.

Rickards integrates smart tools like Xero and Hubdoc, streamlining operations and automating what can be automated. But she makes one thing clear — technology never replaces human connection.

"We're not just making spreadsheets; we're making systems that work for real people," she says.

Her clients call her a "life saver" — not just for crunching numbers, but for bringing calm, order, and control to their business finances.

Real Results, Real People

For clients like Penny Dawson, Philippa’s work made it possible to manage a side hustle alongside a demanding full-time job. For Lou Lugsdin, a career coach and counsellor, her services were revolutionary.

"Philippa assisted me in regaining my time. I don't have to worry about compliance or chase down receipts. It just... works," Lou shares. Kind. Trustworthy. Meticulous. These aren’t words often associated with bookkeeping — but they are with Philippa.

Rooted in Resilience and Experience

With over 25 years of business and leadership experience, and credentials from the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers and the Institute of Managers & Leaders, Philippa’s qualifications are robust. Yet her real edge comes from lived experience. As a single mother and entrepreneur who faced health and societal hurdles, she built her business with grit, not just spreadsheets.

“There were times when I had to balance a business, parenting, and health concerns. But I knew what I was building mattered,” she says.

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs with Actionable Advice

Her advice for women looking to start their own business is direct and inspiring:“Trust yourself. You don’t need permission to be ready. People will believe in your work if you do.”

She encourages female entrepreneurs to outsource what drains them, to seek support, and most importantly, to believe they can build a business that supports their lifestyle — not steals from it.

Changing the Narrative Around Bookkeeping

My Bookkeeping Buddy isn’t just about staying compliant. It’s about seeing bookkeeping as a growth strategy, not a pain point.

With Philippa at the helm, small business owners aren’t just getting their numbers in order — they’re reclaiming their time, clarity, and confidence.

For them, Philippa isn’t just a bookkeeper — she’s a quiet powerhouse behind the scenes, keeping dreams alive one balance sheet at a time.

Website: www.mybookkeepingbuddy.com.au

Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philippajrickards/