Charles Sturt University (CSU) and the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a pilot program to enhance the training of selected accounting students.

 

The MoU will allow up to five accounting students from the CSU School of Accounting and Finance in the Faculty of Business the opportunity to complete a mutually beneficial work placement at the ATO in Albury each semester.

 

CSU Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Andrew Vann, welcomed the initiative.

 

“I’m delighted this MoU with the ATO will enhance the practical work experience options for our accounting students, and it is recognition by the ATO of Charles Sturt University’s important role in training professionals to work in regional Australia,” Professor Vann said.

 

The Executive Dean of the CSU Faculty of Business, Professor Lesley White, said, “This is good news for our students as they will gain valuable experience with a major government department which could lead to possible future employment there, and will give the successful candidates a very strong addition to their CVs.”

 

ATO Assistant Commissioner Ms Debra Unsworth said the office was pleased to be entering into this partnership arrangement with CSU.

 

“We value the opportunity to provide leadership in the training of future professionals and to help students to consolidate theory with practical experience,” Ms Unsworth said.

 

Students will complete specific projects as well as professional and administrative tasks, and will be evaluated for professional skills, team work, problem-solving, initiative, planning and organising, self management, and technology use.