Senior Accountant - Australian Tax Specialist

Job Overview

We are seeking an experienced Senior Accountant specializing in Australian tax to join our client's team, a giant in the Financial Planning Industry. This role requires in-depth knowledge of Australian taxation, the ability to handle complex financial data, and experience in managing tax returns for individuals and corporations.

Requirements:

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field. CPA or CA qualification is required.

Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in tax accounting, with at least 3 years in a senior or supervisory role.

Advanced knowledge of Australian tax laws and regulations, including Divisional 7A requirements, GST, CGT, FBT, payroll tax, and superannuation.

Strong experience with complex tax returns and advisory work for individuals, businesses, and trusts.

Familiarity with tax planning for high-net-worth individuals, partnerships, and corporate entities.

Skills

Software Proficiency: Expert user of accounting and tax software, such as Xero, MYOB, QuickBooks, and ATO e-lodgment portals.

Analytical Skills: Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex tax regulations and financial data.

Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex tax issues to clients and stakeholders in a clear and concise manner.

Leadership: Proven ability to mentor and supervise junior staff, providing leadership and direction.

Key Attributes

Highly detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team, managing multiple tasks and deadlines.

Ethical, professional conduct with a high level of confidentiality.

Proactive approach to identifying tax-saving opportunities and managing compliance risks.

Responsibilities:

Tax Compliance & Reporting:

Prepare standard and complex financial reports in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards.

Oversee the preparation and timely submission of tax returns (including individual, corporate, trust, and SMSF) in compliance with ATO requirements.

Ensure accurate preparation and lodgment of Business Activity Statements (BAS), Instalment Activity Statements (IAS), and Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) returns.

Ensure the company and clients are compliant with all relevant Australian tax legislation, including Divisional 7A requirements, GST, CGT, payroll tax, and superannuation regulations.

Maintain up-to-date knowledge of legislative changes and advise on their implications.

Tax Planning & Strategy:

Provide high-level tax planning and advisory services to reduce tax liabilities and improve financial outcomes for clients and the business.

Design and implement effective tax strategies, including for trusts, partnerships, SMSFs, and complex business structures.

Identify and maximize tax efficiencies, deductions, and incentives for businesses and individuals.

Advise on corporate restructuring and acquisitions, ensuring optimal tax outcomes.

Financial Analysis & Advisory:

Analyze and interpret financial data to provide actionable tax advice and ensure accurate financial reporting.

Assist with the preparation of annual and periodic financial statements, ensuring compliance with tax accounting standards.

Provide guidance on managing tax risks and advise on the tax impact of business decisions and transactions.

Client and Stakeholder Management:

Build and maintain strong client relationships, offering personalized tax solutions and proactive advice.

Liaise with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), ASIC, State Revenue offices and other regulatory bodies, representing clients during audits, inquiries, and disputes.

Support clients with business restructuring, asset protection, and estate planning, focusing on tax efficiency.

Mentorship and Team Leadership:

Provide guidance, training, and support to junior accounting staff, helping them understand complex tax issues and improve their tax expertise.

Supervise and review the work of junior accountants and tax specialists to ensure accuracy and compliance.

Act as a subject matter expert within the finance team, contributing to the development of internal policies and procedures related to taxation.

Audits & Compliance Support:

Lead internal audits on tax compliance to identify potential risks and ensure adherence to regulatory standards.

Assist in external audits, providing necessary documentation and ensuring the integrity of tax filings.

Ensure that financial records are accurate and accessible for future audits and inspections.

If you are interested, please send your CV to or apply below.