Matthew Burns, Strategem Tax & Accounting

MATTHEW BURNS

Senior Tax Accountant, Strategem Tax & Accounting, Bendigo

In school, Matthew had a natural talent for numbers and problem solving but was unsure of his career path until he studied an accounting subject in year 11. 

Matthew finished year 12 and went straight into university to study a Bachelor of Business (Accounting). In his third and final year, Matthew applied to be a graduate tax accountant at Strategem but was declined the position due to staffing limitations. He applied again six months later and was accepted. 

Matthew has since completed an additional three-year post-graduate course to become a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA). Matthew enjoys helping clients all around Victoria to solve problems with their tax affairs, and accounting software.

What challenges have you faced throughout your journey?

It was a challenge to manage study pressure and time pressure. I’ve overcome this through hard work and asking questions as well as measured and consistent study as opposed to cramming.

How did you decide where to apply for a job?

When I started to look for work at the end of my degree, I looked for culture of the workplace I wanted and what kind of work they offered; I was interested in taxation because I enjoyed the subject through uni.

Want your school to be involved?

If your school is interested in booking a YIA presentation, get in touch with Goldfields LLEN.