Speaking in Sydney yesterday, Count chief executive David Lane said the mid-level ‘Accountant Authorised Representative’ option would require accountants to undergo half as much training.

The mid-level authorisation allows accountants to continue to provide SMSF advice once the accountants’ exemption is removed.

“This authorisation also allows the accountant to provide strategic insurance advice in relation to the establishment of an SMSF, enabling the accountant to provide advice that is in the best interests of the client by giving consideration to their insurance requirements,” a Count statement said.

The full ‘Authorised Representative’ option will allow accountants to provide comprehensive financial advice.

“By partnering with Count, accounting firms don’t have to worry about the compliance burden, cost and liability associated with obtaining their own Australian Financial Services Licence,” said Mr Lane.

The Accountant’s Solution allows firms to “establish a platform for future business growth”, he added.

“The solution also provides flexibility to enable an accounting firm to have individual accountants within the firm choose the authorisation option that is right for them – not all accountants within the firm need to choose the same option,” said Mr Lane.

"We know that accountants who are working in or running successful businesses want to partner with a licensee that understands their business and provides them with the opportunity to continue to support their clients and grow their business within the new regulatory environment,” he added.

The full licence option is available now, whereas the mid-level Accountant Authorisation will be available from 1 July 2014.