Name Phil White

Company Cowell Clarke

StateSouth Australia

Member since 2014

Areas of specialtyCompliance with all major federal and state taxes (income tax, CGT, GST, stamp duty); taxation planning and structuring; superannuation and succession planning; asset acquisitions and disposals; and disputes and objections with revenue authorities.

Why are you a member of The Tax Institute? The Tax Institute is clearly the preeminent member body for the taxation profession. Particularly as a junior practitioner, it is a vital tool to have in the toolbox. It provides not only updates on changes to the law and regulations, but also direction on where the industry is heading.

Institute events provide a fantastic mix of networking opportunities with colleagues and potential clients, as well as technical development sessions. I find that the Institute is heavily backed by the best minds in the profession who selflessly and frequently contribute to sessions and publications, which in turn gives me the opportunity to hear from those at the top of the game. Indeed, in my experience so far, The Tax Institute has lived up to its name as “the mark of expertise”.

How is your membership beneficial to your practice and clients?The benefits that the Institute provides to my own personal development assist me in providing value-adding advice to clients. This also allows me to identify new opportunities for clients in areas that I might not necessarily have previously considered.

How did you end up in tax? I worked in the Australian Taxation Office in a part-time role for several years while completing my university studies. This gave me good exposure to a number of key taxation concepts, as well as the regulatory framework in general. Once I finished my studies, it was a natural progression to move into an area of law that was already familiar to me. This made the transition easier and I’ve worked at expanding my skills and knowledge base since then.

What are the challenges for tax practitioners this year?I think the challenges for tax practitioners this year are much the same as every year — keeping abreast of changes to the law and ATO administration, adding value to clients, as well as winning new clients.

Most memorable career moment to dateThat’s a tough one. Given that I am relatively new to the profession, I wouldn’t say there’s a standout moment that comes to mind. Every time that I’ve helped a client in some way or another, or any time that I’ve simplified a complex issue, are memorable moments for me.

How do you relax?Some might say it doesn’t sound too relaxing, but I enjoy riding my motorbike

around the Adelaide hills and countryside. Driving off the beaten track, taking in the sights and fresh air, and stopping for a coffee or a meal in the local townships is how I like to spend my weekends.

More recently, I have taken an interest in golf, which is something I never thought I’d say. As enjoyable as golf is, I have to say that my short game could do with a few pointers!

Advice to those entering the professionTry not to be overwhelmed. When you’re starting out in the profession, this can be very difficult, given the breadth of taxation law and practice. Build up your knowledge wall one brick at a time, and don’t cut corners or your foundations will come crashing down. However, don’t be discouraged with the challenge that is working in this industry — see it as an opportunity. You will learn quickly that the taxation profession is unique in that the ever-changing nature of taxation provides ample and unique opportunities for those who work within its realms.

“Build up your knowledge wall one brick at a time, and don’t cut corners or your foundations will come crashing down.”

Cowell Clarke

Phil White

TAXATION IN AUSTRALIA | VOL 49(10) 601

MEMBER PROFILE