Intermediate Accountant – Business Advisory

Location: Blackburn, VIC  

Role: Permanent, Full-Time  

Qualification: Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Accounting (or equivalent) and some progress towards CA/CPA.  

About Saward Dawson 

Saward Dawson is a values-driven accounting and advisory firm committed to creating a better future for our clients, our people and the communities we serve. We proudly support a diverse range of clients including family businesses, privately owned enterprises, individuals and not-for-profit organisations.  

Our culture is built on collaboration, continuous learning, professional excellence and genuine care for people. We believe that accounting is about more than compliance. We work closely with our clients to provide practical advice, solve problems and help them achieve their goals.  

With over 95 employees across Business Advisory, Audit, Wealth Advisory, Taxation and Superannuation, we offer a supportive environment where team members can develop their technical expertise while making a meaningful impact.  

About the Role 

We are seeking an Intermediate Accountant to join our Business Advisory team. 

This role is ideal for an accountant with 1to 3 years’ public practice experience who is looking to further develop their technical skills, strengthen client relationships and build a long-term career in professional services. 

Working alongside experienced Managers, Senior Accountants and Partners, you will assist a diverse portfolio of clients with compliance, taxation and business advisory matters. You will have the opportunity to work directly with business owners, gain exposure to strategic advisory projects and develop a strong commercial understanding of how businesses operate. 

At Saward Dawson, we are committed to supporting professional growth through mentoring, structured learning opportunities and CA/CPA support. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Prepare financial statements and income tax returns for companies, trusts, partnerships, self-managed superannuation funds and individuals. 
• Prepare Business Activity Statements (BAS), Instalment Activity Statements (IAS) and other compliance reporting obligations. 
• Assist with tax planning, forecasting and business advisory engagements. 
• Build and maintain positive relationships with clients and respond to client queries in a professional and timely manner. 
• Analyse financial information and identify opportunities to improve business performance. 
• Assist clients with cloud accounting software and related technologies. 
• Work collaboratively with senior team members to deliver high-quality client outcomes. 
• Ensure work is completed accurately and in accordance with professional and regulatory standards. 
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and the ongoing development of team knowledge and processes. 
• Support and mentor Graduate Accountants and junior team members where appropriate. 

Skills and Experience 

• 1 to 3 years’ experience in public practice accounting. 
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Commerce or a related discipline. 
• Commenced or completed CA/CPA studies. 
• Sound understanding of Australian taxation legislation and accounting principles. 
• Experience preparing financial statements and tax returns for a range of entity types. 
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple deadlines. 
• High attention to detail and commitment to quality. 
• Experience with Xero and other cloud-based accounting systems is highly regarded. 
• A positive attitude, growth mindset and willingness to learn. 

What We Offer 

• Ongoing mentoring and support from experienced leaders. 
• Financial assistance and study support for CA/CPA qualifications. 
• Exposure to a diverse range of clients and industries. 
• Opportunities to participate in advisory projects beyond compliance work. 
• Professional development and technical training. 
• Modern technology and progressive work practices. 
• A collaborative and supportive team culture. 
• Employee wellbeing initiatives and work-life balance support. 
• The opportunity to build a rewarding career with a firm that values people, purpose and community.  

Our Values 

Our values guide everything we do: 

People First  We build trusted relationships and genuinely care about our clients, colleagues and community. 

Purpose Driven  We strive to make a positive impact by helping clients solve problems and achieve their goals.  

Excellence  We are committed to professional growth, technical excellence and continuous improvement.  

Community  We actively support our community through our work, our people and the Saward Dawson Community Foundation.  

Application Process 

To apply for this position, please submit the following to recruit@sawarddawson.com.au: 

• Your current CV 
• A cover letter outlining:  
• Why this opportunity interests you 
• How your skills and experience align with the position 
• Confirmation of your CA or CPA status (if applicable) 

Applicants must be Australian citizens or permanent residents. 

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.