Reflecting on this achievement, CEO Duane Rogers said: 

“This year marks an incredible milestone—SW’s 90th anniversary! It’s important to reflect on the people who have been integral to getting us to where we are today. Our firm’s purpose is to build lasting relationships with our clients and people to achieve success. We’re proud to have many long-standing clients who have been with us for over 20 years. Equally, we have numerous partners and staff who have helped shape the firm for 10, 20, 30, and even 40 years, leaving a lasting impact on our journey.” 

Over the past decade, SW has experienced remarkable growth, further cementing its position as a leader in the industry. The firm remains committed to innovation and a client-focused approach that has been the foundation of its success. 

As part of the anniversary celebrations, SW is continuing with its market campaign: “Australia’s Best Kept Accounting Secret”, highlighting the firm’s deep industry expertise, client-first approach, and strong presence in the market. Alongside this, the “Discover endless possibilities“ employee branding campaign will showcase the breadth of career opportunities at SW, reinforcing our commitment to developing and supporting our people. 

To celebrate this milestone, SW has planned a series of events throughout the year, bringing together employees, clients, and stakeholders to honour the firm’s legacy. A special 90-year anniversary graphic will also feature across official communications and materials. 

“Looking ahead, we are excited about the future and our continued journey of growth and success,” Rogers added. “Thank you for being a valued part of our history and our future. Here’s to celebrating 90 years of success and many more ahead!” 

For more information about SW’s history and upcoming celebrations, visit Celebrating 90 Years of SW – A legacy of growth & innovation

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Mr Duane Rogers, CEO of SW said: “These promotions reflect our firm’s commitment to recognising and investing in our people. Both Amy and Brent exemplify the firm’s values and dedication to delivering outstanding service to clients. Amy’s leadership, strong work ethic, and deep understanding of international business dynamics have significantly contributed to our firm’s growth. Her ability to bridge cultures and navigate complex cross-border engagements makes her an invaluable asset to the team,”

Amy Zhang joined SW in 2014 as a graduate auditor and has since dedicated her career to delivering high-quality audits and advisory services. Having migrated from China to Australia in 2007, over the past decade, she has established herself as a trusted advisor, particularly in managing the firm’s Mandarin-speaking client base and cross-border engagements with China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. Amy’s deep understanding of international business and cultural diversity strengthens SW’s global capabilities. Leveraging her deep connections with various SW offices in mainland China, Hong Kong and UK. Amy has provided strategic insights to clients navigating international business landscapes.

Brent joined SW as a graduate eleven years ago and has since built an impressive track record in external audit and assurance services across diverse industries. His ability to manage complex engagements, mentor high-performing teams, and drive operational excellence has made a significant impact on the firm’s success.

With deep expertise in the Education and Agribusiness sectors, Brent has played a critical role in delivering high-quality assurance services tailored to the evolving needs of these industries. He has also been the Audit Manager for two of the divisions largest clients in the sector. His strategic approach, technical acumen, and strong client relationships have positioned him as a trusted advisor, ensuring SW remains a leader in delivering value-driven solutions.

Mr Rogers further states: “Brent’s ability to build strong relationships with clients has been a key driver of success in our Education and Agribusiness sectors. His leadership will continue to enhance the firm’s position in the market and support the professional growth of our team.”

Ms Hayley Underwood, National Head of Assurance & Advisory, expressed her enthusiasm for the promotions, stating:
“Brent and Amy exemplify the dedication, expertise, and leadership that define our firm. Their promotions to Partner are well deserved, and we look forward to their continued contributions in driving excellence and growth at SW.”

SW now has 46 partners with 400 people located across Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth.

Media inquiries

Amanda Lee | Chief Marketing Officer
T | +61 8653 1853 M | +61 430 322 306 E | alee@sw-au.com W | sw-au.com

SW is a leading provider of Assurance & Advisory services, committed to delivering exceptional client outcomes through a culture that balances professional excellence with personal well-being. The firm has 46 partners and 400 staff across Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth.

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Duane Rogers, CEO of SW, expressed his enthusiasm about this strategic move: “We are incredibly proud to welcome such a talented and experienced team to our Sydney office. With their deep expertise in professional practice and their reputation as trusted advisors, KSW will significantly enhance our service offerings in the region. Their commitment to supporting their people’s career growth and expanding their service portfolio perfectly aligns with our goals as we continue to strengthen our position in Sydney.” 

Under the leadership of Managing Partner Michael Goodrick, and supported by fellow partners Kamal Thakkar and Quang Tat, Darren O’Malley and Ben Barter, KSW’s team of 30+ professionals will be integrated into SW, expanding our Sydney presence to over 100 dedicated staff. With more than 50 years of experience in the Sydney market, KSW brings with it a well-established reputation for delivering comprehensive accounting, auditing, tax, and business advisory services across key industries such as professional and financial services, manufacturing, software and technology, start ups, construction and maintenance, storage, advertising and media, mining, retailers and property. 

Michael Goodrick, Managing Partner of KSW, commented, “The culture we’ve cultivated at KSW has been the result of decades of hard work and commitment. We’re excited to join a firm like SW, whose values and culture align with ours. Their focus on building lasting relationships with both clients and people is something we’ve always stood by, and we are confident that this partnership will allow us to continue to support the needs of our clients while offering exceptional career pathways for our team.” 

This addition to the SW team is a testament to the firm’s ongoing commitment to supporting the growth and development of its people. The integration of KSW’s team will further bolster SW’s core divisions, including Business and Private Clients and Assurance and Advisory services, providing additional resources to meet the evolving needs of our clients. 

“We are focused on creating career pathways for our people and expanding our services to meet the growing demands of our clients,” said Michael Goodrick. “This partnership will empower us to deliver even more comprehensive solutions, including audit, corporate finance, and specialist tax services, while ensuring that our team has access to a broad range of professional growth opportunities.” 

Michael Goodrick added, “We are excited to join a firm with a clear growth strategy, supported by a culture rooted in values and a strong commitment to client service. This opportunity will allow us to better serve our clients and expand our professional reach, both nationally and internationally.” 

The expansion into Sydney follows the addition of key partners, including Greg Will from Armstrong Dawson in 2022 and Vanessa Priest and Kirsty McDonnell in 2024. This continued growth enhances SW’s ability to deliver high-quality services across a range of sectors and solidifies its reputation as an employer of choice in the accounting and advisory industry. 

At SW, we believe our ability to attract high-calibre talent speaks to our strong values, culture, and commitment to growth. As we move forward, we remain dedicated to building a workplace where individuals can thrive and build meaningful careers while contributing to the long-term success of our clients. 

Media inquiries 

Amanda Lee | Chief Marketing Officer    

T | +61 8653 1853
M | +61 430 322 306 
E | alee@sw-au.com 

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Commenting on Blake’s appointment, SW’s CEO, Duane Rogers, stated: “Blake’s promotion is a testament to his exceptional dedication, expertise, and contributions to our clients and the firm. His leadership in the Property & Infrastructure industry group and private client space has seen him involved in key initiatives including the flagship Emerging Developer Series, Commercial rent relief, State and Federal budgets and the ACBC Property Development working group. We are thrilled to welcome him to the partnership.”

Tim Stillwell, National Head of Business Private & Client Advisory, also shared his thoughts: “Blake’s high calibre of technical, personable, communicative and commercial acumen demonstrated over the past eight years is unquestionable. He consistently delivers tailored solutions to clients and mentors colleagues with genuine care and insight. His strategic thinking and collaborative approach make him an invaluable leader within SW.”

Since joining SW in 2016 from PwC as a Manager, Blake has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to providing innovative solutions and building strong relationships with clients across the property and construction sectors. He is well-regarded for his expertise in property, working with many clients that continue to grow, invest in projects, fund and syndicate third party projects. Blake’s focus in supporting national opportunities, with a focus also in Victoria and on regional areas such as Geelong, also demonstrates his passion for supporting team growth and development.

Mr Rogers further states: “This appointment reflects SW’s dedication to cultivating a thriving environment for its people and delivering exceptional value to its clients. Our Senior Leader program, having received several accolades this year is testament to the investment we make in our people in supporting them on their career journey.  

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CEO of SW, Mr Duane Rogers says: “We are immensely proud of Amanda receiving this recognition for her achievements in professional services. This award is a testament to her accomplishments and her significant ongoing contribution to our firm.” 

In 2024, Amanda led the firms public branding campaign titled “Australia’s best kept accounting secret.”  This included comprehensive market research, stakeholder engagement, and led an in-house creative solution.

Chair of SW and the firm’s Financial Services Industry Group, Mr. Stephen O’Flynn, commended Amanda’s dedication to mental health, policy creation, and mentorship, noting her leadership in initiatives such as the firms Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), Voluntary Modern Slavery Statement and advancing Gender Equality. Her commitment also earned her a place as the employee representative on SW’s CSR Committee. 

Amanda has also been integral to SW’s l International Women’s Day events, and this year, she organised and moderated a panel of three SW female partners to discuss the UN theme ‘Invest in Women – Accelerate Progress’, inspiring young women at SW.”  

Amanda says: “No one wins these awards by themselves. I have a brilliant team and have had the support and encouragement of so many people across my career and especially at SW. Thank you to Stephen for the nomination, I love our culture and I’m excited to be able to put a spotlight on such a great firm. Congratulations to WiBF on creating this incredible platform for women and to all the other finalists.”

Mr. O’Flynn further added “We are incredibly proud of Amanda and all that she has achieved as a leader at SW. She consistently delivers results beyond expectations and embodies a commitment to driving tangible changes, promoting diversity, and supporting socially responsible outcomes. Celebrated for her enthusiasm and dedication, Amanda has been recognised twice as a Value Leader, receiving the ‘Love Your Work – Value Award.”

Congratulations Amanda! We are thrilled to see WiBF acknowledge your impactful contributions both at SW and within the broader sector. 

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Says Chair of SW, Mr Stephen O’Flynn, “As the leader of the Property & Infrastructure Group and the Business Development Tax Partner, Matt has demonstrated exceptional leadership and expertise. He is also well-known for hosting our Federal Budget webinars, providing insightful analysis and guidance.

Matt’s strong focus on commercial and advisory support for his clients reflects his strategic capabilities, which will be a tremendous asset to our Board. His experience and insights will be crucial as we navigate our key priorities and continue to drive the firm’s success. We look forward to the valuable contributions Matt will make in his new role.” 

Matt fills the vacancy created by Partner Hayley Underwood, who steps down from the Executive Board after 3 years’ service to take on leading the Assurance & Advisory division.    

“I would like to thank Hayley for the important contribution that she has made to the Executive Board during a period of significant growth of the firm. She has demonstrated exceptional leadership on our Quality and Risk Committee that has ensured that we have built on some great foundations to elevate a whole of firm approach to this important area. I wish her all the best in her knew role as the Divisional Head of Assurance and Advisory” said Mr O’Flynn.      

Mr Matt Birrell stated: “I’m truly honoured to be voted onto the board by my Partner colleagues and I’m genuinely excited to take an active role in upholding our firm’s governance and strategy. We have an outstanding commitment to quality and risk management, and I’m looking forward to working with my fellow board members to continue driving our success in these areas as we grow.”

Hayley reflects on her time on the SW Board: “Reflecting on my service, I am proud of the progress we’ve made together on our strategic priorities, particularly the investment we have made in our system of quality management. Our continued commitment to quality has been crucial in supporting our growth.” 

Over the next four years, SW will strategically focus on Growth, People, and Digital, with leadership, governance, and culture serving as the foundational pillars for our success. Ranked 22nd in the 2024 Australian Financial Review Top 100 Accounting Firms*, SW remains an attractive choice for clients and practitioners seeking a firm with a solid financial foundation and a forward-looking vision.

Matt Birrell will work closely with board member Greg Will, Duane Rogers as CEO, Bessie Zhang, Stephen O’Flynn (Chair) and independent director, Sangeeta Venkatesan.  

SW congratulates Matt on his appointment and thanks Hayley for her significant contribution during her tenure. 

*Of all national accounting practices, SW ranks 9^th

Supporting the firm’s brand awareness campaign: Australia’s best kept accounting secret

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“We are thrilled to be able to attract such quality talent in Christine. This not only demonstrates our commitment to supporting our clients’ needs, but also to our culture that is underpinned by a clear purpose and strong values. With Christine, we see great alignment with our capabilities, clients and broader SW networks,” said Mr Duane Rogers, CEO.

SW’s strong reputation in financial services related to Foreign ADIs, and funds management will be further strengthened by Christine’s expertise in financial services, including investment management. Christine’s long-standing role in Risk with Australia’s sovereign wealth fund, Future Fund, will strengthen SW’s risk advisory and assurance capability.

Ms Christine Krause says: “I am excited to be joining the SW team and being part of the internal audit and risk advisory growth strategy. I am proud to be joining an organisation that has built its culture from focusing on both its people and clients in order to achieve shared success, and am looking forward to living and breathing that every day.”

Partner, and Head of SW’s Assurance and Advisory Division, Mr Rami Eltchelebi says: “It’s fantastic to have Christine join SW as a partner. Her appointment strengthens our capability as she brings 25+ year of professional experience working both in the profession (KPMG, PwC) and in industry. Developing and leading internal audit and risk management functions in industry makes Chrstine an advisor of choice as she draws on her industry experience to provide value that clients can relate to.”

Mr Rogers says, “Together with the appointment of Vanessa Priest and Kirsty McDonnell last month in Sydney, and Trent Godden-Minette in Melbourne in January this year, we are excited to bring four new partners on board that all have specific talents and a desire to drive growth in their respective markets. Pleasingly, and with a lot of hard work from our people and the support of our clients, we are on track to deliver on our four-year strategic plan. These appointments further bolster our momentum in the market and ensure we can support our growing client needs.”

In addition to financial services, our experienced team also service several other key sectors: government, utilities, education, hospitality and the private sector.

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“We are thrilled to welcome Vanessa and Kirsty to our Sydney office,” said Mr Duane Rogers, CEO. “Their combined expertise and leadership qualities will undoubtedly strengthen our team and enhance our ability to continue to deliver exceptional service to our clients.”

Bringing a wealth of experience from a boutique practice, with extensive backgrounds in large and mid-tier firms, Vanessa and Kirsty are set to play a pivotal role in advancing SW’s national growth strategy. Their appointment marks a significant step forward in the firm’s commitment to sustained and meaningful growth.”

Says Partner Ms Kirsty McDonnell: “I am excited to be part of SW’s growth strategy, supporting the Sydney office in particular. I’m proud to be joining a very a strong technical team of advisors that have a clear culture of driving success for their clients and team members. Joining SW will support our clients’ broader needs across audit, specialist tax services and corporate finance. Additionally, having a strong collaborative and supportive culture is important to me, and one that we feel proud to be a part of.”

Ms Vanessa Priest, Partner, says: “Caring for my clients, providing support and growth for my team and contributing to a great work culture are the key drivers for me. SW has the core values and principles and has the technical expertise and services my clients need.”

National Head of Tax, Ms Sam Morris said: “Their complementary capabilities and strong presence in the tax market will not only bolster our brand recognition in Sydney but also contribute to the firm’s continued growth and success.”

“We are confident that Vanessa and Kirsty will seamlessly integrate into our organisational culture,” added Mr Rogers. “Their addition to our team underscores our commitment to attracting top talent and providing unparalleled value to our clients.”

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Vanessa Priest and Kirsty McDonnell as they embark on this exciting new chapter with SW Accountants & Advisors.

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Mr. Duane Rogers, CEO and Partner of SW congratulates Trent on his appointment and is pleased to see the firm’s purpose ‘Build lasting relationships with our clients and people to achieve shared success’, being demonstrated today. “Trent has displayed exceptional talent over many years to be promoted. His milestone achievement today is a testament to the firm’s unwavering commitment to support dedicated and talented individuals on their career journey,” says Mr Rogers.

“Our values are at the heart of our culture and Trent was the inaugural winner of the Open Doors Values Award, recognising his technical skill, approachability, and consistent positive demeanour towards colleagues at all levels,” remarked Mr Rogers.

National Head of Assurance & Advisory, Mr Rami Eltchelebi congratulates Trent: “Trent has been part of our growth story since he started with us as a graduate. We are so pleased to now have him join our partnership. Trent’s admission will create further capacity for growth and allow the firm to achieve its aspirations around creating a growing national practice with full capability in every area.”

Having been with the firm since accepting a graduate role in 2015, Trent became a Chartered Accountant in 2018 and has been busy building his knowledge and capability, having undertaken two secondments, one in the UK and the other at the University of Melbourne to facilitate the adoption of AASB 15 & 1058 (revenue standards). His deep technical accounting expertise has led him to present financial reporting and accounting standard updates across various platforms.

The firm’s recent record growth has coincided with the development of SW’s Senior Leadership program. Says Mr Rogers, “We have invested in developing our people with the right mix of skills required to not only service our clients, but also become great leaders in our business. I look forward to seeing Trent continue to open doors to opportunities for his team, his clients and the firm.”

Trent’s promotion is in addition to the three appointments made in July this year, with Laura Toscano and Janelle McPhee, and the lateral Partner appointment of Paul Hum. SW now has 42 partners across Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney and Perth.

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Says Chair of SW, Mr Stephen O’Flynn, “Since Greg and his team joined SW in 2022, he has played a key role in building our visibility and capability in our Sydney market and more broadly nationally with a focus on business and private client support. Having worked in professional practice for over 30 years, Greg is a trusted advisor to business and a well-regarded authority on private business issues, regularly commentating in national and local press on how to increase business value.

Being voted in by his fellow partners so quickly speaks to his calibre and professional standing. Greg’s leadership role will further enhance the firm’s strategic priority to build a larger presence in the Sydney market and I look forward to working closely with him.”

Greg fills the vacancy created by Steven Allan, Business & Private Client Advisory Director, who steps down from the Executive Board after 5 years’ service.

“I would like to thank Steve for the significant role that he has played on the Board and Executive Committee over a number of years. Steve has played an instrumental role in growing our national practice, being involved in the recruitment of most lateral partners and has had many international trips to meet with our friends at SW International as the international network has grown.” said Mr O’Flynn.

Mr Greg Will stated: “”I am really excited and honoured to be voted onto the board by my fellow Partners and to have a hands-on role in upholding the governance of the firm. The firm is in a strong growth phase, and I am looking forward to working with my fellow board members to maintain this momentum.”

Steve reflects on his time on the SW Board: “During my tenure, I have had the privilege of working alongside dedicated individuals committed to the success of our firm. I would like to express my gratitude to each member for their collaboration and support. Reflecting on my service, I am proud of the progress we’ve made together. The commitment to excellence, emphasis on teamwork, and the prioritisation of our goals have been instrumental in our achievements. I remain confident in the firm’s continued success and growth and extend my best wishes to the incoming leadership and the entire team.”

Over the next four years, SW has a strategic focus on: Growth, People and Digital, with leadership, governance and culture being the key building blocks that will underpin success. With a ranking of 22 in the 2023 Australian Financial Review Top 100 Accounting Firms*, SW continues to be a source of interest for clients and practitioners looking for a firm they can work with that has a long history with good financial stability, and an eye to the future.

Greg Will will work closely with reappointed board member Hayley Underwood, Duane Rogers as CEO, Bessie Zhang, Stephen O’Flynn (Chair) and independent director, Sangeeta Venkatesan.

SW congratulates Greg on his appointment and thanks Steve for his significant contribution during his tenure.

*Of all national accounting practices, SW ranks 9th.

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