We partner with government entities to enhance accountability and ultimately drive positive outcomes for the public and the economy. We recognise the unique challenges faced by the public sector that operates in a highly regulated environment, where each decision can lead to a profound impact on people and communities.
Understanding the public sector
Our approach acknowledges the complex nature of the public sector, where balancing the need for future-focused, sustainable solutions is critical. We understand the pressure on government entities to deliver seamless solutions, while managing budget constraints and exercising transparency and accountability around the use of public resources.
Our service delivery approach is founded on collaboration, inclusivity, and transparency, and ensures we communicate openly with clients at each stage of the engagement.
Expert advisory services
Navigating these demands requires a team that understands the culture and procedures associated with the sector.
William Buck is an established firm thatโs wholly owned and operated in Australia and New Zealand. We have a team of over 150 Directors and 1,500 professionals who are strategically placed in every major city of Australia. Our diverse backgrounds and technical specialities ensure that we are well-prepared to support local, state and federal government entities. We provide advice that aligns with macro and micro strategic plans, ensuring our clients can operate efficiently.
Our client service professionals are supported by a dedicated National Technical Team that provides advice on changes to accounting standards and highly complex regulatory issues. Where appropriate we will also access resources from across the William Buck Group and our International Praxity Alliance to enhance outcomes for all stakeholders.
A proven track record
William Buck’s proven track record includes appointments by the following entities. These appointments reflect our commitment to government service excellence and our capability to meet complex audit and advisory needs:
- Australian National Audit Office
- Whole of Government Management Advisory Service Panel
- NSW Department of Finance Government Procurement Panel
- NSW Government Prequalification Scheme: Performance and Management Services Panel
- WA Common Use Arrangement for Audit and Financial Advisory Services
- WA Local Government Association for Financial & Corporate Services
A proven track record
William Buck’s proven track record includes appointments by the following entities. These appointments reflect our commitment to government service excellence and our capability to meet complex audit and advisory needs:
- Australian National Audit Office
- Whole of Government Management Advisory Service Panel
- NSW Department of Finance Government Procurement Panel
- NSW Government Prequalification Scheme: Performance and Management Services Panel
- WA Common Use Arrangement for Audit and Financial Advisory Services
- WA Local Government Association for Financial & Corporate Services
A trusted partner
At William Buck, we are dedicated to upholding the public interest through our work. Our professionals are committed to maintaining confidentiality, adhering to rigorous standards, and ensuring transparency in every engagement. We aim to be a trusted partner for government entities, helping them achieve their objectives and deliver value to the public.
Commitment to quality and training
William Buck’s commitment to quality is evident in our comprehensive quality assurance policies and procedures. These include regular independent reviews, an internal peer review program, and the appointment of an independent Engagement Quality Control Review Director. Our focus on continuous professional development ensures our team is always equipped with the latest knowledge and skills.
360-degree support
Our national footprint, combined with local expertise, allows us to deliver services that are both efficient and tailored to the specific needs of each entity. We provide a wide range of services, including:
Core Government services
Audit and assurance
With a focus on technical expertise and quality assurance, our team possesses an in-depth understanding of Australian Accounting and Auditing Standards and adheres meticulously to Professional Auditor Independence and Ethics requirements. Our proven audit methodology aligns with that of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CAANZ). Further, the firmโs career-long comprehensive training regime further bolsters our proficiency in delivering high-quality audit services.
Taxation compliance
We understand the importance of accurate tax compliance under the National Tax Equivalent Regime (NTER). With extensive experience working in the public sector, our tax specialists help government entities to accurately reflect the financial performance and tax position to their stakeholders. We offer a wider range of tax services spanning tax audits, fringe benefits tax (FBT), state taxes, goods and services tax (GST), strategic tax planning and more.
Financial forecasting and budgeting
Constructing a budget and financial model is critical for government entities to effectively deliver outcomes for local areas, states and country. We understand the public sector has unique needs and our team takes the time to understand which factors are of primary importance to decision makers and stakeholders โ the end result is greater visibility and insights to make meaningful, agile decisions. We offer a range of services from financial viability assessments to economics for infrastructure services, and financial management advisory to business case development.
Strategic planning
With a need to be future-focused, government entities are constantly challenged to consider sustainable solutions to deliver the best outcomes for the public in the most cost-efficient way. Thatโs why our team of highly skilled advisors partner with government entities to holistically analyse and identify opportunities for growth and enhance strategic decision making to meet their goals. Our offerings focus on financial review, business structure assessment, developing and implementing strategic plans, business improvement strategies and more.
Governance and risk advice
Understanding the relationship between government ownership, ministerial oversight , and corporate governance is essential for government entities. Employing a governance framework enables entities to manage risks effectively and drive ethical decision making. Our teamโs intricate knowledge of the regulatory landscape governed by various Acts, including the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013, allows us to ensure compliance with tax laws, exemptions, and reporting standards. Further, our risk advisory and management services provide government entities the confidence to effectively deliver outcomes for the public.
Core Government services
Audit and assurance
With a focus on technical expertise and quality assurance, our team possesses an in-depth understanding of Australian Accounting and Auditing Standards and adheres meticulously to Professional Auditor Independence and Ethics requirements. Our proven audit methodology aligns with that of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CAANZ). Further, the firmโs career-long comprehensive training regime further bolsters our proficiency in delivering high-quality audit services.
Taxation compliance
We understand the importance of accurate tax compliance under the National Tax Equivalent Regime (NTER). With extensive experience working in the public sector, our tax specialists help government entities to accurately reflect the financial performance and tax position to their stakeholders. We offer a wider range of tax services spanning tax audits, fringe benefits tax (FBT), state taxes, goods and services tax (GST), strategic tax planning and more.
Financial forecasting and budgeting
Constructing a budget and financial model is critical for government entities to effectively deliver outcomes for local areas, states and country. We understand the public sector has unique needs and our team takes the time to understand which factors are of primary importance to decision makers and stakeholders โ the end result is greater visibility and insights to make meaningful, agile decisions. We offer a range of services from financial viability assessments to economics for infrastructure services, and financial management advisory to business case development.
Strategic planning
With a need to be future-focused, government entities are constantly challenged to consider sustainable solutions to deliver the best outcomes for the public in the most cost-efficient way. Thatโs why our team of highly skilled advisors partner with government entities to holistically analyse and identify opportunities for growth and enhance strategic decision making to meet their goals. Our offerings focus on financial review, business structure assessment, developing and implementing strategic plans, business improvement strategies and more.
Governance and risk advice
Understanding the relationship between government ownership, ministerial oversight , and corporate governance is essential for government entities. Employing a governance framework enables entities to manage risks effectively and drive ethical decision making. Our teamโs intricate knowledge of the regulatory landscape governed by various Acts, including the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013, allows us to ensure compliance with tax laws, exemptions, and reporting standards. Further, our risk advisory and management services provide government entities the confidence to effectively deliver outcomes for the public.
Environment, social and governance
At William Buck, we are committed to making a positive impact on the environment, fostering an inclusive workplace and upholding strong governance practices. With a focus on sustainability, diversity, and ethical conduct, we strive to create a better future for our communities, clients, and employees.
Government Industry Specialists
Explore other industries
Agribusiness
A diverse industry that contributes significantly to Australiaโs economy, Agribusiness is up against an increasing number of challenges to operating profitably. We can help you navigate the impacts of shifting tax legislating, a fluctuating economy and variable commodity prices to reach results at each stage of your businessโ lifecycle.
Education
New Zealandโs ever-changing and competitive education sector is experiencing a period of both growth and disruption. New service models emerged throughout the pandemic along with changing demands from parents and students. Our experienced advisors can assist you to meet these demands and leverage opportunities for expansion both here and internationally.
Health
Rapidly accelerating technological developments, a growing and ageing population, increasing demands from patients for affordable and remote services, a lack of substantial funding and impacts of a continuing pandemic are just some of the challenges this vital sector is up against. Despite the potential issues caused by these challenges, they also present opportunity.
Hospitality & Tourism
Acute workforce shortages and unstable supply chains continue to threaten our hospitality and tourism industries, which bore the brunt of Australiaโs response to the pandemic. Nevertheless, the sectors are demonstrating considerable resilience and face a prosperous future as borders reopen and consumer confidence improves.
Manufacturing
Government incentives, industry reforms and the emergence of Advanced Manufacturing are all driving a revived manufacturing industry with vast opportunities. Meanwhile, an increasing number of industry associations aim to support the sector by boosting productivity, improving competitiveness and enhancing sustainability.
Mining & Energy
Located on the doorstep of growing populations and emerging economies, with diverse and abundant mineral and energy reserves and a skilled workforce, Australia is poised to benefit from the rising international demand for resources through continued inbound investment and cross-border opportunities in the sector.
Not for Profit
Good corporate governance, flexibility and an understanding of changing regulatory requirements are the keys to success in Australiaโs purpose-driven not for profit sector. Highly collaborative organisations work with government entities and private businesses to make long lasting impact and deliver for Australians.
Professional Services
A strong and emerging industry in Australia, professional services practitioners operate in franchising, legal and accounting, advertising, engineering, business consulting and many more. Key concerns for the sector are skilled workforce shortages, staff retention and changing regulations.
Property & Construction
As your property specialists, Weโre here to help you lay a solid foundation by structuring your project in a commercially attractive manner while managing your tax position to maximise project return. Our scalable solution means you can engage us for a specific part of your development or the entire project.
Property & Construction
As your property specialists, Weโre here to help you lay a solid foundation by structuring your project in a commercially attractive manner while managing your tax position to maximise project return. Our scalable solution means you can engage us for a specific part of your development or the entire project.
Retail & Wholesale
Largely consisting of SME businesses, Australiaโs highly competitive retail and wholesale industry attracts players from many overseas markets. While the pandemic had markedly different impacts on the various subsectors of the industry, eCommerce benefitted from the temporary shutdown of physical stores and increased online shopping โ a trend which has continued.
Technology
Fast growing and aspirational, Australiaโs tech sector is currently the third highest contributor to gross domestic product and employs over half a million people. William Buck has significant experience assisting SaaS companies and other tech subsectors to scale, raise capital, identify growth opportunities in transactions and manage divestment mandates.
Transport & Distribution
While previously segregated into several subsectors, the industry is increasingly integrated and employs over half a million people across the country. With new technology including automation shaping the industry, new and emerging skills and business processes are required.
