SW Accountants & Advisors

Our Sydney Open Office event was a hit!

Last week, SW Accountants & Advisors welcomed many students to our Sydney office for our Sydney Open Office event, and we were excited to share with them why SW is Australia’s best-kept accounting secret.

The students had the opportunity to hear from our Partners, Rene Muller and Vanessa Priest, Senior Manager Laura Cutts, and Early Careers Recruitment Advisor Liron Rapoport about our award-recognised graduate and vacationer programs.

They also got to enjoy afternoon tea while listening to our previous graduates Christina Ekmekdjian, Nickolas Hernandez and Kayla Ocampo as they shared their experiences and networked with the SW Sydney team.

"It was great to meet the students in our office. We wish them the best for their upcoming semester and look forward to seeing them again in our office!" Liron says.

Our graduate and vacationer programs are still open for applications. Don’t miss the chance to be a part of Australia’s best-kept accounting secret!

Apply here: https://www.sw-au.com/careers/students-graduates/

The SW team visited Deakin University recently and had the opportunity to share with the students about our award-recognised graduate and vacationer programs!

Andrew Ang, Hariny Suharsan, and Jessica De Nola represented SW at the Deakin Talent Showcase, sharing their experiences of university and life as graduates at SW. They answered questions on topics such as work-life balance and a day in the life at work.

SW Early Careers Recruitment Advisor Liron Rapoport was invited to take part in a panel discussion at the Deakin Talent Showcase, presenting about Australia’s best-kept accounting secret and offering advice on the application lifecycle and how to stand out as an applicant.

If you are interested in our graduate and vacationer programs, please visit sw-au.com.

Deakin University

Winter is Occupational Wellbeing season at SW and yesterday we had the great pleasure of launching our much loved national Coffee Roulette for the second year running and welcoming Julie-Anne Whitfield from our client R U OK?Day to our offices for a special guest presentation.

Coffee Roulette matches our team member together, to go for a coffee together and form meaningful connections across the firm.

Julie-Anne spoke with SW's leaders and Mental Health First Aiders about the importance of asking your colleagues, friends and family, 'Are you ok?' - and asking it often. Julie-Anne also encouraged those who are providing care and support to others to take time out to care for themselves; and shared information on R U OK's Workplace Champions program and resources - that can be found here R U OK? Workplace Champions

Mental Health First Aider, and CMO with SW, Amanda Lee says, "Mental health impacts 1 in 5 Australians. I know from personal experience with family members and colleagues the importance of being able to access resources, connect with others that you trust and find the help you need." Amanda's personal interest in mental health and wellbeing led her to undertake a Diploma of Mental Health.

Whilst RU OK day is the second Thursday in September every year, we recognise the importance of promoting a culture of care within the workplace every day by connecting with others and having meaningful and authentic conversations. We are so thankful to Julie-Anne and for their time, and look forward to working with them in the future.

If you or a loved one is struggling, you can access a range of resources, including:
Lifeline - 13 11 14
13 YARN - 13 92 76
Mensline - 1300 78 99 78
headspace - 1800 650 890
Beyond Blue - 1300 224 636
Open Arms - 1800 011 046
Su***de Call Back Service - 1300 659 467

We were honoured to welcome Brendan Kerin, a Marrawarra and Barkindji man from the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council, to our Sydney office to give an Acknowledgement of Country and host a smoking ceremony last week outside our office building, Aurora Place, inviting all tenants to join us.

Before the smoking ceremony began Brendan explained how symbolic it is, traditionally used at the birth and death of an Aboriginal person but also regularly used to cleanse a space. Brendan concluded the ceremony by sharing the story of the three kangaroos and a laughing kookaburra, and then performed it on the yidaki (also known as the didgeridoo in Western culture).

"It is significant for us to learn more about the heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We thank Brendan, Kate Morhi and our RAP committee for bringing our community an incredible opportunity to experience a time-honoured Indigenous tradition," says Partner Greg Will.

SW is undertaking a Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan. We acknowledge and pay respect to the past and present Traditional Custodians and Elders of this nation and the continuation of cultural, spiritual, and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

We are fortunate to have Matthew McGuire, a Traditional Owner of Whadjuk Noongar Boodjah who was raised in Kellerberrin, host a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony in the plaza beneath our Perth office.

Our event began with Richard Gregson, a Partner at SW, introducing Matt and his family to the large group gathered outside in the plaza downstairs. Our Perth team was joined by neighbouring tenants as Matt welcomed us and guided us through the smoking ceremony. The traditional ritual, using Balga trees, aims to ward off bad spirits and promote well-being.

"We are deeply grateful to have Matthew and his family joined us today, guiding us through the smoking ceremony. It was such a success, honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage while promoting inclusivity and cultural respect," Richard says.

Special thanks to Matthew McGuire for sharing this significant tradition with us, fostering a sense of connection and respect and allowing our team to engage with Aboriginal traditions.

SW is undertaking a Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). We acknowledge and pay respect to the past and present Traditional Custodians and Elders of this nation and the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

During National NAIDOC Week, people all across Australia are celebrating the rich history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The theme for this year's NAIDOC Week is "Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud" which celebrates the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations culture.

It's important to recognise the resilience, strength, and contributions of Indigenous people to our society. The fire symbolises the connection to Country, each other and traditions. Honouring this flame ignites pride and unity, reaffirming our commitment to acknowledge, preserve, and share the cultural heritage that enriches our nation.

For SW Accountants & Advisors, NAIDOC Week is an opportunity to reflect further on our own journey towards reconciliation and to consider ways in which we can better support and engage with Indigenous communities. Some of the areas we are committed to include increasing Indigenous employment and supplier diversity, and promoting cultural awareness and understanding for a safe workplace. This week our Perth and Sydney offices will be celebrating NAIDOC Week by hosting smoking ceremonies outside their office buildings.

As we mark NAIDOC Week, let's celebrate the richness and diversity of Indigenous cultures and the contributions of Indigenous people to our society. Let's also commit ourselves to ongoing education, advocacy, and action towards a more just and equitable future for all.

Whether you're attending an event, reading a book by an Indigenous author, or simply taking a moment to reflect, there are many ways to be a part of NAIDOC Week. Let's continue to work together towards a better future for all.

To support Vinnies CEO Sleepout and help end the cycle of homelessness, 11 SW Accountants & Advisors leaders slept rough in the cold last night to raise funds and awareness for the campaign. So far, with your help, we have raised nearly $45,000 this year. A special shout out to our superstar Chris Dexter, who has hit the big target and raised over $12,500 for Vinnies this year! These funds will significantly impact efforts to end the cycle of homelessness in Australia by providing preventative programs, beds, and meals.

We are incredibly proud of our team Matt Birrell, Michael Chen, Chris Dexter, Steven Edmonds, Trent Godden-Minette, Richard Gregson, Leo Luan, Paul Hum, Brent Sheers, Tom Mullarkey and Vincent Shi, as this is our 8th year participating in the Sleepout to help people in need. Their commitment highlights our firm's dedication to supporting community programs that make a difference.

When asked about their experience, Tom says, "It was heartbreaking to hear a horrific story from a domestic violence survivor about how her life was threatened and how she recovered with the help of Vinnies. Hearing stories like this reaffirms that what I am doing tonight is absolutely worth it."

Richard says, "Last night, I learned about the impactful work of the Passages Youth Engagement Hub, an organisation changing young lives in WA without any government support, relying heavily on funds from the Vinnies CEO Sleepout. It was eye-opening to see their dedication, and knowing that I've made a difference reassures me and strengthens my resolve to continue supporting. While we can't fix everything overnight, together we can help those in need, promote early intervention, and highlight the importance of support and recognition."

Steve says, "I found it very disturbing that victims of domestic violence find it difficult to find rental accommodation, as landlords often reject their application due to fears that their properties may be targeted by vandalism and not looked after."

It's not too late! If you want to make a donation, please use the link below to contribute to our team.

https://lnkd.in/g_9JqqjU

This activity supports one of our key SDGs: hashtag , Zero hunger.

Congratulations to Amanda Lee, SW's Chief Marketing Officer on being recognised as a nominee in the Women in Banking & Finance WiBF 2024 National Industry Awards for Achievement in Professional Services!

The Awards celebrate talented women leading by example across Australia's banking and finance industry. Nominees have been chosen by an independent panel of judges from various sectors in several categories.

Chair of SW, Partner Stephen O'Flynn says: "Amanda exemplifies exceptional leadership in professional services. She goes beyond expectations and is to be celebrated for her enthusiasm, commitment to making tangible changes and positive diversity and social responsibility outcomes. I'm delighted to see her being recognised for her contribution to the sector given her efforts with SW and beyond."

SW is a proud member of WiBF and in recognition of our specialist expertise, a sponsor of the WiBF Asset and Funds Management National Award.

Winners are announced at the Awards event, 5 September - Good luck Amanda!

Women in Banking and Finance Limited

Recently, SW opened its doors to university students with our 'Melbourne Open Office' event. We had a record number join us, learning why SW is Australia's best kept accounting secret. The Open office provided more than 90 students with insights into our firm as a whole, the different divisions we have, what they do, and what our Early Career programs offer.

Our teams engaged with students, sharing their experiences as graduates and what it's like to work within our firm.

SW Early Careers Recruitment Advisor, Liron Rapoport says: "So great to see such a buzz from the students being able to have an informal chat with our team members and learn more about what it takes to transition from school/Uni to working life. The feedback we've had was tremendous and we look forward to seeing many apply for roles with SW in the future!"

We know it's exam time, so we appreciate students taking time out of their busy schedule to join us. Good luck with your exams!

Don't miss out on our Graduate and Vacationer programs and apply today: https://www.sw-au.com/careers/

Brent Sheers, SW Accountants & Advisors Assurance and Advisory Associate Director in Melbourne, is a first time participant of Vinnies CEO Sleepout. He hopes that his action can create change to those experiencing homelessness:

"Homelessness impacts so many individuals and families. Spending one night under the stars to raise awareness is a small gesture, but for many, sleeping outside is a harsh reality every night. I'm proud to join the CEO Sleepout and stand in solidarity with those experiencing homelessness to raise awareness and hopefully create real change."

For the 8th consecutive year, SW Accountants & Advisors is proud to be participating in Vinnies CEO Sleepout. Our team will be sleeping out on the longest and coldest night of the year in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth to raise funds to help end homelessness in Australia.

It is no secret that homelessness is a significant problem in Australia. If you want to support our team to help end the cycle of homelessness, you can donate via the link below.

https://lnkd.in/g_9JqqjU

This activity supports one of our key SDGs: , Zero hunger.

Steven Edmonds, a Partner in our Melbourne office, is participating in Vinnies CEO Sleepout for the second time and he shares with us a recent experience he had with his son:

"Following my son's recent school trip into the Melbourne CBD, he commented on the number of people sleeping rough in the city. It was very surprising to him, and it prompted conversations at home as to the many reasons people find themselves in this situation. The conversations also made me realise how both fortunate I am, and how I am able to make a small difference by participating in the CEO Sleepout.

This will be my second year participating in this event, and please consider donating to make a difference to help those in need."

For the 8th consecutive year, SW Accountants & Advisors is proud to be participating in Vinnies CEO Sleepout. Our team will be sleeping out on the longest and coldest night of the year in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth to raise funds to help end homelessness in Australia.

It is no secret that homelessness is a significant problem in Australia. If you want to support our team to help end the cycle of homelessness, you can donate via the link below.

https://lnkd.in/g_9JqqjU

This activity supports one of our key SDGs: , Zero hunger.

For the 8th consecutive year, SW Accountants & Advisors is proud to be participating in Vinnies CEO Sleepout. Our team will be sleeping out on the longest and coldest night of the year in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth to raise funds to help end homelessness in Australia.

Richard Gregson, SW Assurance and Advisory Partner in Perth, is participating for the first time in the CEO Sleepout and hopes his action can create a positive impact for families facing challenges finding shelter. He explains why below:

"My efforts trying to make a difference in combatting homelessness similar challenges have in the past involved providing direct support to people faced by such challenges, and in so doing I have seen first hand the challenges they face.

Acknowledging the problem and personally making a contribution is critical for driving change in this space. As Mahatma Gandhi famously said, 'You must be the change you wish to see in the world.'

My spending a night “sleeping rough” will not directly drive change, but the financial support that I am able to gain for this cause can make a difference."

It is no secret that homelessness is a significant problem in Australia. If you want to support our team to help end the cycle of homelessness, you can donate via the link below.

https://lnkd.in/g_9JqqjU

This activity supports one of our key SDGs: , Zero hunger.

Our 2024 graduates have embarked on their journey with SW Accountants & Advisors over the past two months, and it has been truly exciting! They participated in insightful inductions meticulously prepared by our P&C team and leaders, that were designed to integrate them smoothly into SW's culture and operations.

During the inductions, they had the opportunity to engage with SW's Partners Nick Michael, Bessie Yang, Steve Edmonds, Abi Chellapen and Laura Toscano. They learned from our partners' valuable experiences, gaining insights into the workings of the firm and the diverse roles they can be involved in.

These sessions provided a comprehensive overview of what it means to work at SW, the expectations, and the opportunities available for career growth. They also participated in some fun activities to build relationships with fellow graduates.

We welcome our graduates to the team and look forward to and to opportunities for them.

We recently hosted our inaugural national graduate retreat in Melbourne! Our 2024 graduates from all around Australia gathered at the Melbourne Zoo on the first day to kickstart a series of exciting events.

They engaged in workshops hosted by CMO Amanda Lee, L&D Senior Manager Karina Calder, and Early Careers Recruitment Advisor Liron, covering branding and networking, resilience, and feedback. And of course, being at the zoo, we couldn’t resist including some fun activities with an amazing race!

On the second and third days, the group reconvened at the SW office for continued learning. The graduates had the opportunity to delve deep into their areas of expertise through technical training sessions and explored the significance of diversity within their cohort.

This included taking a closer look at the Hermann Brain Whole Thinking Model to better understand their thinking style preferences which helps them learn how to be part of a high-performing team. The day ended with our seniors providing our graduates with insight into their program and a nail-biting 'minute-to-win-it' competition.

It's that time of year again when we gather around the Quiz Masters to help us decide which team is the Trivia champion in our SW Melbourne office. Nearly 80 people put their knowledge to the test in our annual Trivia Night last week for laughter, pizza, and much coveted glory!

The result is now no secret – with our Tax team, self-named: "Sharon's Italian Stallions," taking home the trophy again for the third time in a row, defending their title as the best Trivia team in SW. Congratulations!

Will another team dethrone our Tax team next year? Follow us to find out the answer in 2025 ;)

Our Sydney office enjoyed hosted its inaugural Dress for Success breakfast yesterday! This activity is a small step towards supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal #5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.

Our teams across all offices are able to donate professional attire to support women striving to enter or re-enter the workforce. It’s providing more than just clothes - it offers hope and a pathway to empowerment, along with dedicated professional support for job interviews.

Dress for Success is part of a global grassroots charity organisation powered by volunteers, devoted to empowering vulnerable women with the professional clothing, career toolkit, and confidence they need to reach meaningful employment and financial independence.

This activity is a small step towards supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal #5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.

We can’t wait to see the donations coming in from all our offices until the end of May, alongside tenants in Sydney’s office building. Catherine Lees, Fundraising Manager at Dress For Success, and Aurora Place’s Operations and Finance team also joined our Sydney office to celebrate.

It's with great pleasure that we celebrate Hayley Underwood's remarkable 20-year journey with us here at SW.

Congratulations on this incredible milestone!

Hayley says of her journey: "20 years goes by very quickly when you enjoy the work you do, the clients you do the work for and the people you work with."

As a Partner in our Assurance & Advisory Division, Hayley has played an incredible role in driving our firm's success, bringing over two decades of experience to the forefront.

At SW, we're committed to building lasting relationships with our clients and people to achieve shared successes, and Hayley's journey epitomises this commitment. Her unwavering dedication has made a significant difference in many areas, and we're immensely grateful for her invaluable contribution in this time. Here's to another 20 years!

Pets, families and team members of SW Accountants & Advisors eagerly tuned in to see what opportunities Treasurer Jim Chalmers's third budget has for all of us.

Whether in the office or at home with their families, we are now busy delving into the details to discover all the this budget offers for you and your business.

Join our Federal Budget webinar tomorrow at 9.30 am, where our industry experts will be joined by ANZ Senior Economist, Madeline Dunk, to reveal the for your industry and sector.

Click here to register: https://www.sw-au.com/insights/federal-budget/federal-budget-2024-25-business-webinar/