Perpetual and The Fold to assist accountants

In a statement issued by Perpetual Private, the financial services provider said the program offers accountants a licensing solution ahead of the impending removal of the exemption they currently have for advice on SMSFs.

The financial services provider also pointed out that the program will provide accountants the opportunity to partner with trusted organisations to “retain their independence” and assist in extending their advice capabilities.

Perpetual Private's state manager, Dermot Lindsay, said it will offer accountants assistance to determine the right licence path for them, and provide licence application support as well as training on AFSL regulatory requirements.

“SMSFs have become a significant driver of diversified revenue for accounting practices and a great opportunity exists for accountants, who have a well-earned reputation as trusted advisers, to broaden and strengthen their service offering – with the right support,” Mr Lindsay said.

“The new program will facilitate partnerships for accountants to help them thrive in a changing environment.

“We are pleased to join forces with The Fold to support accountants who want to maintain their independence and continue to grow despite legislative changes.”

The Fold lawyer Jaime Lumsden Kelly said the firm was “pleased to be working alongside” Perpetual to support Australian accountants.

“Together we are committed to supporting independent accountants to not only manage the upcoming licence changes with minimal disruption, but also to thrive in a post-exemption environment through the right tools and support,” she said.