IPA AND AAT SIGN NEW SERVICE AGREEMENT

The Institute of Public Accountants (IPA) and the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) have entered into a new service agreement which will extend further benefits to their respective membership bases and importantly, strengthen their shared voice on behalf of small business.

The two organisations have shared office accommodation at 555 Lonsdale Street Melbourne since 2009.

“When the IPA formed the IPA Group at the end of 2014, making it the largest SME focused accounting organisation in the world, it was always our intention to expand to drive positive outcomes for the small business sector,” said IPA chief executive officer, Andrew Conway. 

“This new agreement with the AAT will enhance the IPA and AAT’s capacity to work more closely together to provide end to end service for the sector.

“We continue our advocacy effort on behalf of small business in Australia and other jurisdictions including Asia and the UK.

“Recognising the value that accounting technicians bring to the SME sector, we believe that AAT members have a natural place within the accounting profession and the IPA family.

“We will be working with AAT to extend new member benefits which will include: further education pathways; access to continuous professional development; discussion groups and networking opportunities; technical advice; and, ongoing advocacy that works in the best interests of members and small business.

“For accounting technicians and professional bookkeepers, this includes a pathway to the IPA’s professional program; a fully-fledged Master of Business through Deakin University. 

This program will mean that members can broaden their education and skill base, enabling them to diversify and grow their businesses,” said Mr Conway.