Allan Hall team

Allan Hall solidifies AFR Top 100 Accountants position

In the 2024 Australian Financial Review’s Top 100 Accounting Firms list released last month, Allan Hall Business Advisors ranked impressively at #51.

This ranking places Allan Hall among the top mid-tier accounting firms in Australia, highlighting our role in the national accounting landscape.

A Top 100 ranking symbolises more than a number on a list; it encapsulates over six decades of steadfast commitment to excellence.

From our inception, Allan Hall has remained dedicated to providing superior accounting and business advisory services.

By continually adapting to the shifting financial landscape, our firm has ensured that clients consistently receive tailored solutions and real value.

At the heart of Allan Hall’s success is our team.

Comprised of seasoned professionals, our team brings extensive expertise and industry insights to every client interaction.

Commitment to staying ahead of market trends guarantees that our advice is both practical and innovative, reinforcing Allan Hall’s reputation as a trusted partner for businesses and individuals alike.

CONTACT ALLAN HALL BUSINESS ADVISORS

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CSIRO Kick-Start funding

Matched funding for start-ups and small business to access CSIRO support

CSIRO Kick-Start provides matched funding for start-ups and small to medium enterprises to help access CSIRO’s research expertise and capabilities to help grow your business.

Overview

  • What do you get? Matched funding between $10,000 and $50,000
  • Who is this for? Start-ups and small to medium enterprises
  • Applications may be made at any time.

The CSIRO Kick-Start program provides matched funding to Australian start-ups and very small SME’s to utilise CSIRO expertise to undertake research activities that will enable your business to:

  • research a new idea with commercial potential
  • develop a novel or improved product or process
  • test a novel product or material

Funding may be used to cover the costs of undertaking the project, and may include:

  • salary and on-costs of researcher(s)
  • travel and accommodation (if required)
  • administrative/overhead costs
  • external facilities access/services/contractor costs.

Funding may not be used for capital works and expenditure or infrastructure costs.

Dollar-matched funding of between $10,000 and $50,000 is available. Eligible businesses are able to apply for a second Kick-Start project, after completion of their first, providing the total funding received does not exceed $50,000.

Check if you can apply

To be eligible, you must:

  • have an Australian company number (ACN)
  • be registered for goods and services tax (GST)
  • have your primary place of business within Australia
  • demonstrate the ability to dollar-match the funding
  • have an annual turnover of less than $10 million, in the current and each of the 2 previous financial years, or
  • have been a registered company for less than 3 years.

Eligibility criteria also apply to the proposed project. For more information and to submit an EOI, please get in touch with the CSIRO Kick-Start Program team.

CONTACT ALLAN HALL BUSINESS ADVISORS

australians doing business overseas

Export Market Development Grants

Understanding Export Market Development Grants

The Export Market Development Grants (EMDG) program is designed to help Australian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) expand their reach into global markets.

By offering financial support, EMDG enables businesses to promote their goods and services internationally and to gain valuable export training.

Who Can Benefit?

The program supports a range of businesses at different stages of their export journey:

  • Tier 1: For SMEs that are ready to begin exporting
  • Tier 2: For SMEs looking to expand their exports in current markets
  • Tier 3: For SMEs targeting new key markets
  • Representative Bodies: Organisations that assist their member SMEs in achieving export success can also apply.

Current Grant Rounds

At present, four grant rounds are being managed. While rounds 1 to 3 have closed, round 4 will soon be open for applications. The opening dates are:

  • Representative Bodies: November 6, 10 AM AEDT
  • Tier 1, Tier 2 and Tier 3: November 12, 10 AM AEDT.

EMDG funding presents an opportunity for businesses to gain the resources they need to grow internationally and succeed in the global market.

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Client Choice Awards 20 years

Allan Hall named Best Business Advice Firm 2024

Beaton announces winners of 20th annual Client Choice Awards!

Allan Hall named Best Business Advice Firm (<$30M revenue) in Accounting & Consulting Services Specialist Awards category.

In another highly competitive year, an incredible 250 firms from across Australia and New Zealand entered the 2024 awards program, with Beaton analysing more than 16,000 client ratings that were submitted to the judging process.

Director Scott Jago expressed his delight at the recognition stating, “Receiving a Client Choice Award is a testament to the dedication of our team and reaffirms our ability to serve our dynamic clientele with excellence.”

Dr George Beaton, Executive Chairman of Beaton added, “The number and calibre of entrants to the Client Choice Awards have improved again this year. Firms that win are those who meet clients’ expectations of more-for-less, earn and maintain their clients’ trust and best differentiate their client experience.

“It is striking to watch and absorbing to see the heights to which firms are going soar by listening to client feedback and drawing on benchmarks to produce excellent client service. Congratulations to all finalists and winners!”

This marks another milestone in Allan Hall’s achievements, being previously named as the Client Choice Awards’ Best Business Advisory Firm in 2023 and again as multi-award-winners in 2022.

About the awards

The Client Choice Awards, now in its 20th year, celebrate best practices in the professional services sector. Unlike traditional awards, these accolades are based solely on client feedback, independently researched by Beaton. Over the past two decades, more than 750 firms in Australia and New Zealand have participated in the awards, contributing to a wealth of over 400,000 pieces of client feedback.

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international services

Expanding your business globally

Five Key Strategies for Successful Business Expansion

Venturing into the global market with your small or medium-sized business (SMB) presents an exciting yet formidable journey. In this article, we delve into five crucial strategies to steer your SMB through new market entry without starting from scratch.

1. Thorough Research: Strategic Market Analysis

Before plunging into a new market, invest in extensive market research. Just like industry giants, SMBs can gather valuable insights to make informed decisions. Scrutinise the target market, study competitors and identify potential challenges such as industry regulations and demand forecasts.

2. Gradual Progress: Prioritise Success over Perfection

Avoid turning planning into procrastination. Keep the primary objective of business expansion in focus to prevent getting entangled in hypothetical scenarios. Prioritise incremental steps, adapt along the way, and ensure progress is not sabotaged by perfectionism.

3. Strategic Collaboration with Peers

Mitigate risks and pool resources by strategically collaborating with other SMBs in the target market. Consider forming alliances with complementary businesses and strategic partners who can assist with groundwork, and therefore accelerate your efforts.

TIP: Seek Professional Guidance from Allan Hall’s International Services Team »

If you are an international business looking to start up in Australia, or an Australian business looking to expand overseas, Allan Hall has a highly skilled and experienced team in International Services. We collaborate with you to develop strategic solutions tailored to your business so you can respond to global opportunities and take on challenges in your chosen region.

4. Foster Visibility: Network for Success

Although networking may seem time-consuming, it is crucial for boosting company visibility and adapting to new markets. Leverage digital platforms to intentionally network, gaining access to opportunities and building relationships. Seek mentorship from successful SMBs in your target market to tap into their expertise on local markets and cultural nuances.

5. Vigilance Over Complacency: Embrace an Adaptive Approach

When considering entry into a global market, learn from the missteps of others. Major multinationals face challenges, and online examples serve as cautionary tales where inadequate localisation efforts led to struggles. However, setbacks faced by others should not be seen as predetermined for your venture. Maintain vigilance and adaptability to navigate unforeseen challenges not initially considered.

Helping international businesses seize global opportunities and minimise risk

We live in an entrepreneurial and globalised market and many businesses are expanding internationally. Businesses entering a new market need to be aware of the differing laws, regulations and customs that govern business in a foreign country. If you are an international business looking to start up in Australia, or an Australian business looking to expand overseas, Allan Hall can assist.

CONTACT ALLAN HALL INTERNATIONAL SERVICES

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Considering Redundancies in your business?

Recent research has found that almost a third of employers intended to make staff redundancies.

Australian HR Institute’s quarterly Australian Work Outlook survey indicated that redundancy intentions have risen sharply to 31% in the December 2023 quarter, up from 17% in the September 2023 quarter.

In correlation with this research, our consultants at Allan Hall HR have recently been experiencing daily calls from clients requesting support and advice on employee redundancies. 

If you are one of these employers considering redundancies in your business, we have outlined below the key components for you to consider. We also highly encourage you to seek professional guidance to help navigate a smooth and legally compliant redundancy process.

Regardless of whether your employees are award covered or not, redundancy terminations are highly complex, and the specific circumstances of each case must always be considered. There are several rules that apply and steps you should take when managing a redundancy to ensure compliance and reduce your risk of receiving a claim (such as an unfair dismissal claim). 

Redundancy Considerations

If you are planning to make an employee redundant, it is important for you to ensure that:  

  • You have taken steps to ensure you no longer require the person’s role to be performed by anyone 
  • All reasonable attempts have been made to find suitable alternative employment within the business for the employee
  • You have considered and complied with any applicable modern award obligations
  • You have undergone a consultation process which is best practice and a requirement under some awards  
  • You have prepared for, documented and communicated the redundancy process thoroughly
  • You pay the employee correctly according to their redundancy entitlements under the National Employment Standards, calculated with reference to their period of continuous service

Allan Hall HR’s Redundancy and Advice Package

At Allan Hall HR we have developed a Redundancy and Advice package which provides employers with an assortment of tools and resources to assist with undertaking a legally compliant redundancy process. The pack includes: 

  • Letter of Notice to the Employee (regarding proposed workplace changes and an invitation to a consulting meeting)
  • Guidance on Consultation Steps and Meeting Discussion Points
  • Redundancy Checklist and Consultation Record
  • Communication Strategies
  • Termination Letter due to Genuine Redundancy. 

If you wish to purchase our Redundancy and Advice Package, please click here We are also able to manage all or part of the redundancy process for you, according to your preference. 

Need Assistance?

Before you consider terminating an employee on the basis of redundancy, we encourage you to call us on 1300 675 393 or contact us here.  To learn more about our HR services, please click here.

Allan Hall team

Allan Hall Secures Top 50 Position in Prestigious Accountants Survey

Allan Hall Business Advisors has retained their Top 50 position in the Australian Financial Review’s Top 100 Accountants Survey for 2023.

In a testament to unwavering commitment to excellence, Allan Hall Business Advisors has proudly held its position as one of Australia’s leading accounting firms in the Australian Financial Review’s Top 100 Accountants survey.

Securing an impressive #45 ranking, Allan Hall continues to stand tall among the accounting sector, reaffirming its status as a trusted and reliable partner for businesses and individuals alike.

Having a Top 50 ranking is more than just a number; it represents over 60 years of dedicated service and expertise. Since inception, Allan Hall has been resolute in providing high-quality accounting and business advisory services, consistently adapting to the evolving financial landscape and delivering value to clients.

What sets Allan Hall apart is not just longevity, but also the breadth of services available and the calibre of staff. The firm’s range of services goes beyond traditional accounting, encompassing financial planning, business advisory, self-managed super funds, home loans and more. This holistic approach to client service reflects Allan Hall’s understanding that modern businesses require comprehensive solutions to thrive.

The strength of Allan Hall lies not only in its services but also in its people. The team comprises seasoned professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. Their dedication to being across industry trends ensures that clients receive advice that is not only reliable but also forward-thinking.

Beyond the professional achievements, Allan Hall’s #45 ranking also reflects an extensive involvement in the Northern Beaches community, with commitment to giving back and actively participating in local initiatives that align with Allan Hall’s values.

Read the full AFR announcement here »

Allan Hall was named Business Advisory Firm of the Year at the 2023 Australian Accounting Awards and also Best Business Advisory Firm by the 2023 Beaton Client Choice Awards. These accolades reflect Allan Hall’s consistent dedication to innovation, client service and community involvement.

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Allan Hall name Business Advisory Firm of the Year

Allan Hall named 2023 Accounting Award Winners

Allan Hall wins Business Advisory Firm of the Year at the 2023 Australian Accounting Awards

Allan Hall Business Advisors is proud to announce that it has been awarded the prestigious title of Business Advisory Firm of the Year at the 2023 Australian Accounting Awards.

Allan Hall has continued to excel in its commitment to supporting and servicing clients.

Director Scott Jago expressed his delight at receiving this esteemed accolade.

“Receiving this award creates a sense of achievement and deep satisfaction, validating that Allan Hall is on the right path,” he said.

Allan Hall’s success can be attributed to its ‘One Allan Hall’ multiservice approach, which provides clients with a comprehensive range of services under one roof. Recognising that clients desire more than just compliance-related assistance, the firm has continuously adapted and expanded its service offerings, ensuring it remains well-positioned to give clients what they want.

This notable recognition reaffirms Allan Hall’s dedication to delivering exceptional business advisory services and its ongoing commitment to supporting small and medium-sized businesses across Sydney’s Northern Beaches and beyond.

The Business Advisory Firm of the Year award highlights outstanding performance and acknowledges the firm in the accounting industry that effectively showcased its business advisory services and client impact. See the full list of 2023 Winners and Finalists here: https://www.accountantsdaily.com.au/australian-accounting-awards/winners/2023-winners-and-finalists

In addition to this recent accolade, Allan Hall was also named Multiservice Firm of the Year and SMSF Firm of the Year Finalists in 2023. The firm’s previous achievements include being named the Best Business Advisory Firm by the 2023 Beaton Client Choice Awards and winning the Australian Accounting Awards for Wellness Program of the Year (2022) and Firm of the Year (2021). These accolades reflect Allan Hall’s consistent dedication to innovation, client service and community involvement.

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ALLAN HALL NAMED BEST BUSINESS ADVISORY FIRM 2023

Allan Hall named Best Business Advisory Firm

Beaton Client Choice Awards 2023

Allan Hall has been named Best Business Advisory Firm (<$30M revenue) in the Accounting & Consulting Services Specialists category.

This was a highly competitive year that saw 276 firms benchmarked from across Australia and New Zealand.

A total of 17,413 individual client ratings were submitted to Beaton for benchmarking and analysed to determine the best firms in each category, with strong competition and incredibly tight margins between overall client service scores.

Allan Hall Director Scott Jago said, “Following our prior success as 2022 Winners in three Client Choice Award specialist categories for firms with up to $30M revenue — Best Business Advice Firm, Best Self-Managed Super Fund Firm and Best Auditing Firm — we are delighted to be recognised for another year.”

“These awards benchmark some of the best talent and professional firms in the country. To come out with a Business Advisory award is an achievement that we are extremely proud of, and reflects the hard work that has been put in by our Director Group, Client Managers and all of our wonderful staff this past 12 months and beyond.”

Chairman of Beaton, George Beaton added, “The number and calibre of entrants to the Client Choice Awards continues to improve year on year. For 20 years, Beaton has watched the professional services industry drive up client service standards in every sector.”

“It is impressive and fascinating to see the heights to which firms can soar by listening to client feedback and drawing on benchmarks to produce excellent client service.”

Allan Hall was also a Finalist in the Best Accounting and Consulting Services Firm (<$30M revenue) in the 2023 Client Choice Awards program.

About the Client Choice Awards

The process of choosing winners in Client Choice Awards is objective and data-driven, based on client feedback submitted directly to Beaton in the entry process. For more information on how this benchmarking process is conducted, click here »

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