CDU free tax clinic: building financial inclusion in the Northern Territory | CDU

"Over the past year, ALPA has had the privilege of partnering with the CDU Tax Clinic and SAMAF Consultants on several outreach engagements across West Arnhem Land, including visits to Minjilang (Croker Island), Gunbalanya, and Jabiru. These visits have provided essential tax support to individuals who, in many cases, had been disengaged from the system for years. We witnessed firsthand the impact of these services -delivered with cultural sensitivity, patience, and professionalism -and the sense of relief and empowerment felt by community members.

Partnering with Manfred and his team has been an incredibly positive experience. His respectful and approachable manner, combined with a deep understanding of tax systems and the challenges remote communities face, has led to great outcomes. Community members were able to resolve long-standing tax issues, access entitlements, and gain knowledge that will support their financial independence moving forward.

From ALPA's perspective, the need for ongoing, consistent support in these communities is significant. The tax issues our mob face are often complex and long-standing and addressing them requires more than one-off visits. The 2024 East Arn hem Financial Wellness Tour further confirmed the deep and widespread demand for services, with thousands of Yolŋu people in need of tailored tax help and financial literacy support.

While we are committed to supporting this work-including in-kind contributions such as limited seats on charter flights and local coordination -we acknowledge the logistical barriers that often limit what's possible. Accommodation shortages, flight access, and high travel costs are real challenges. This is why we strongly support CDU Tax Clinic and SAMAF Consultants in seeking funding to expand their reach and continue their invaluable work.

We believe that this model of partnership, community engagement, and culturally safe service delivery is key to real, lasting impact. ALPA looks forward to continuing our collaboration and reaching more communities together.

To discuss in further detail please do not hesitate"

‍

Edward Elder - Community Engagement Manager, The Arnhem Land Progress Aboriginal Corporation (ALPA)

‍

"To the Team at the CDU Free Tax Clinic,

 I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for the incredible opportunity I had as a Work Integrated Learning student with you back in 2020. My time at the clinic was the launchpad for my entire career.

The clinic was the crucial bridge between academic theory and real-world practice. For the first time, I wasn't just studying tax law-I was applying it to help real people in our Darwin community. The hands-on experience of managing client files, preparing tax returns, and communicating complex information was invaluable. It built not only my technical skills but also my confidence.

The practical experience I gained was directly responsible for my first professional role. It made my resume standout and led to an offer as an Accounting Assistant with SAMAF Consultants.

Today, I am proud to be a Senior Accountant with that same firm . The foundation I built at the CDU Tax Clinic was instrumental to my career progression. It didn't just give me course credit; it gave me a career, a professional network, and the practical ability to succeed.

Thank you again for the pivotal role you played in my journey."

‍

Huy Hoang Nguyen

‍

"I wanted to write this letter to say thank you. Your free service does so much more than just help with taxes. You truly help people build a new and safer life, and I am one of those people.

When you have to start your life over, everything feels hard and scary. For me, the biggest fear was my money. For many years, another person was in complete control of it. When I left, I found a big mess of papers and problems that I did not understand at all. I was so worried about making a mistake and getting into trouble with the tax office. I was also afraid to ask for help because I worried people would judge me or not understand my situation.

From the very first time I called, the person on the phone was kind. When I came to your office, I finally felt safe. No one judged me; they just wanted to help. The student and their supervisor sat with me for a long time. They listened to my whole story first, which meant so much. Then, step by step, they helped me sort through all the papers. They showed me what everything meant and answered all my questions, no matter how small. I never felt rushed or silly for not knowing things.

Slowly, with your help, the big mess was cleaned up. It felt like a heavy weight was lifted from my shoulders. But you gave me much more than just sorted-out taxes. For the first time in a long time, I feel in control of my own life. I can now plan for my future. I am no longer scared that a letter will come in the mail with bad news. You gave me back a very important piece of my freedom and my peace of mind.

What you do is about people, not just numbers. You help people who feel lost and scared get back on their feet. I will never forget your kindness. Thank you for everything."

‍

Community member‍