I believe there was an excellent balance of academic content and social networking opportunities and I applaud the members for their smart decision to attend. The feedback indicates that everyone not only enjoyed themselves but gained many insights across a very broad range of subjects. CPE is critical for you, your business and your clients.
While it is a mandatory requirement to maintain your IPA membership, it is vital to staying up to date with all the necessary information and tools at your disposal to service clients and further your business potential.
Throughout the year, I have spoken of the need for us to remain relevant for the sake of our clients and future business aspirations. The disruption from technology will only continue and change that comes with it is inevitable.
This will open new doors, not just for members but also their clients. Clients are also exposed to ongoing technological developments and they will experience new ways of operating their business and running their everyday life.
Is this a threat or an opportunity? I believe it is the latter, and accountants as the trusted advisers to their clients are in the best position to embrace change and help their clients address their future needs.
We should not underestimate the value of being trusted advisers to our clients. This is particularly the
case with small business. In Australia, accountants and tax agents remain one of the main sources of advice to small businesses, ahead of other professionals.
So keep up with your CPE and attend the IPA events available to you and keep ahead of the pack.
Not everyone can attend our National Congress but I urge you to do so if you can and if not, attend your
state-based events.
I am already looking forward to next year’s National Congress to be held from 23 to 25 November at the
prestigious Grand Hyatt in Melbourne. I would recommend members take up the early bird specials and
ensure a spot at the ‘must-attend event’ of the year held in the city voted the world’s most liveable city for the last five years.
As this is my final report for 2015, on behalf of the IPA Board I would like to wish you a very Merry Christmas and please stay safe over the holiday season. I look forward to a great year with you all in 2016.
Wendy Leegel is the President and Chairman of the IPA Board.
