The ECU Tax Clinic team collaborated with Marra Worra Worra Aboriginal Corporation to make a real difference to the Fitzroy Crossing community.
The ECU Tax Clinic team, led by Associate Professor of Law Prafula Pearce and accompanied by staff and students Dhvani Thakkar, Emma Riley and Akash Soni, recently embarked on a heart-warming collaboration with Marra Worra Worra Aboriginal Corporation to make a real difference to the Fitzroy Crossing community.
In an impressive display of dedication and generosity, the dynamic team filed a remarkable 34 tax returns in just over ten hours, resulting in an anticipated tax refund of $15,420 that will make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need within the community.
Executive Dean of the School of Business and Law Professor Maryam Omari believes that the recent initiative is an outstanding example of the positive influence of community engagement.
"When individuals and organisations come together to help those in need, it can significantly impact and make a difference to the lives of those who may not have enjoyed the services and support we all take for granted." Professor Omari said.
A cornerstone of the Fitzroy Crossing community for over four decades, Marra Worra Worra Aboriginal Corporation has been committed to improving the lives of its residents.
This trip to Fitzroy Crossing has allowed the ECU Tax Clinic to build a relationship with General Manager – Programs, Nicola Angell and Financial Counsellor Marcel Sithole both from the Marra Worra Worra Aboriginal Corporation.
The partnership with the ECU Tax Clinic team has resulted in outstanding outcomes, underscoring the importance of community partnerships in providing critical services to this remote community in areas such as taxation and finance.
The idea of the ECU Tax Clinic hosting future virtual tax clinic open days has been welcomed by the Marra Worra Worra Aboriginal Corporation.
Associate Professor Prafula Pearce, who led the dedicated clinic, expressed her enthusiasm about the successful collaboration.
"It's incredibly gratifying to see the positive impact we can make when we come together with community organisations like Marra Worra Worra Aboriginal Corporation," Professor Pearce said.
"This collaboration together with the support from the Australian Taxation Office National Tax Clinic Program demonstrates our commitment to the local community in WA.
"It highlights the practical, hands-on education that our students receive through partnerships with various organisations."
"At the School of Business and Law, we are dedicated to serving our community and equipping our students with real-world experiences." Professor Omari said.
This collaboration is a testament to the power of community partnerships and the positive change that can be brought about when organisations join forces to make a difference.
