Helping businesses move through the gears with expert CFO support.
THE GEARCHANGE STORY
Why GearChange Exists
As a business grows, it needs different levels of support and resources to move up - and sometimes down - through the gears to reach the next level. What may have worked when a business was starting out often no longer holds good. Things get more complicated, risks get bigger, but so do the rewards.
Many business owners try to make this change without understanding their numbers, without the right financial reporting, or without a properly thought-out business plan. The result? Stress, sleepless nights, and a business that isn’t performing at its full potential.
At GearChange Business Advisory, we help business owners across Australia take control of their finances and move forward with confidence. Our goal is simple - to make your business work smarter, not harder, so you can focus on growth, not guesswork.
OUR MISSION & VALUES
Driven by Clarity, Built on Trust
We believe great businesses are built on strong relationships, clear strategy, and good numbers. Every client relationship is personal - we get to know your business, your goals, and your challenges, then design bespoke financial solutions that fit.
Clarity – We simplify complex financials into clear, actionable insights.
Trust – We build genuine relationships based on reliability and transparency.
Growth – We focus on scalable systems that set your business up for the long term.
Support – We give honest, practical advice you can depend on.
FOUNDER & DIRECTOR
Meet Steven Nicholson
Steven brings over 30 years’ experience advising Australian businesses on how to improve their financial performance. As a Qualified Accountant (CPA) with both professional practice and CFO experience in entrepreneurial organisations, Steven understands the challenges faced by business owners at every stage of growth.
He has supported clients across industries including manufacturing, wholesale, hospitality, and professional services - helping them strengthen financial foundations, boost profitability, and make informed strategic decisions.
Steven is particularly passionate about working with small and medium-sized businesses that want to scale sustainably. His ability to translate financial data into meaningful strategy helps business owners see not just where they are, but how to get to where they want to be.
“It’s hard enough running a business as it is. Having the right financial partner beside you can make all the difference.”
– Steven Nicholson
CLIENT IMPACT
What Our Clients Say
Our clients trust GearChange because we don’t just talk numbers - we help them build confidence, structure, and real results.
“Steven has been providing outsourced CFO services to Barrack through GearChange. He has taken the time to understand our business, and his ability to translate complex financial data into actionable insights has been invaluable. His support and advice on financial planning. budgeting. and strategic advice is helping us to make important business decisions. We are very satisfied with the services Steven has provided. and I highly recommend him and GearChange.”
- Charles Gow-Gates,
Managing Director at Barrack Broking
“We have been working with Steven for a few months now and already seeing the benefits of his expertise and guidance. We now have a much clearer picture of how our business is performing and where it is heading. Steven's extensive personal experience as a CFO and business owner has enabled him to relate to and understand our business very quickly, work independently, ask great questions and give an objective view on issues and strategy.
Although Steven is external to our organisation he already feels like part of the team. We are truly grateful for his support.“
- Laura Napier,
Director at Advocates Online
“Working with Steven and GearChange has made a huge difference to my small business. They've guided me through setting up accounting software, helped me understand BAS and GST, and provided invaluable advice during my transition from a partnership to a company. Steven is knowledgeable, calm, and always quick to respond. Everything runs so much more smoothly now — I highly recommend GearChange to any small business owner.”
- Dr Xanthe,
All in One Home and Garden Services