Students provide tax help

Aspiring accountants from Southern Cross University are providing free tax advice to low-income earners in Lismore as part of the annual Tax Help program.

Four accounting students from the Lismore campus have volunteered for the program, which assists people in preparing their tax returns. The program is open to singles who earn $40,000 or less, with no investment properties. The income level increases for people with children.

Dr Youness Alizadeh, a senior lecturer in accounting, said Southern Cross University had participated in the program for a number of years, providing assistance for students as well as people in the wider community.

“This is a really good program which has benefits for our students and for the community,” Dr Alizadeh said.

“The volunteers go through a very extensive training program conducted by the Australian Taxation Office. Tax is a very important part of the accounting course and this gives our students first-hand experience with tax returns and in developing the communication skills for a thorough and professional consultation with clients.

“In previous years students who have taken part were able to gain a significant edge when seeking employment with accounting firms.”

Dr Alizadeh said last year the volunteers provided assistance for up to 60 people.

“We are very pleased to be part of this program, which operates through a range of centres around the country,” he said.

The students are providing the service at the Lismore campus. Appointments can be made by phoning the School of Commerce and Management on 66203835.