FAQ: Business Advisory, Tax Services & Financial Management

Navigating the complexities of business strategy, tax compliance, and outsourced financial leadership can raise plenty of questions. Whether you’re exploring how a business advisor can help your company grow, comparing advisory to accounting, or wondering how our different services work, we’re here to give you clear answers. These FAQs also link to in-depth blog posts for further reading, so you can make informed decisions about your next steps. Got more questions? We’d love to chat. Contact our team to start the conversation.

Business Advisory

What does a business advisor do?

A business advisor provides strategic guidance to help your business improve performance and navigate challenges. Business advisory is often grouped in with accounting, however there is a key difference between these services. Accountants are focused solely on recording, reporting, and managing your financial data. A business advisor analyses and interprets this data to develop your overall strategy in relation to all business areas.

The Co. business advisors help clients refine and action strategies for:

  • Increasing profitability
  • Expanding into new markets
  • Implementing new operational systems or processes
  • Acquiring and/or selling businesses
  • Recruitment and team structuring

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Related: What Advisory Really Means in Business

Why should I hire a business advisor?

Our advisors help you realise your vision with an objective, expert perspective. It’s our job to look at the big picture; identifying opportunities for growth, preparing for challenges, and always looking deeper than just the transactional level. When you hire us, you’re equipping your business with the right resources to succeed at every stage of the journey.

Related: Top 10 Reasons to Hire a Business Advisor

What’s the difference between an advisor and a consultant?

A consultant will typically take on project-specific work within a set timeframe. An advisor provides long-term support for decision-making across multiple areas of the business. So, you should consider hiring a business advisor when you need ongoing guidance and comprehensive strategies.

Related: Building Your Company’s Financial Dream Team

Is a business advisor the same as a business coach?

At The Co., we’re business advisors, not coaches — and that distinction matters. Business coaching often focuses on personal development, mindset, and leadership skills. While there can be overlap, a business advisor will work directly with you on business-critical areas such as financial performance, operational efficiency, team structure, and long-term growth.

Think of us as a strategic partner working alongside you to deliver actionable strategies and solutions to improving your business. If you’re looking for results-driven guidance that connects big-picture thinking with practical implementation, business advisory is the better fit.

Can a business advisor help with financial strategy?

Yes. Business advisors often assist with budgeting, cash flow management, pricing strategy, forecasting, and profit improvement all within the context of the business.

Do business advisors provide personal financial advice?

Our focus is on your business — but we know that strong business performance affects your whole financial world. While we specialise in business strategy, operations, and financial management, we also consider the bigger picture including the goals of the business owner and their wider group. If personal investment advice or wealth planning is needed, we can connect you with a licensed financial advisor we trust. That way, you get the right expertise in every area, working together toward your long-term success.

What makes The Co. different from other business advisors?

Unlike larger firms that follow rigid structures or give off-the-shelf advice, we take a personalised and integrated approach. That means tailored strategies, real conversations, and hands-on support drawing from a really deep understanding of your operations, team, and goals.

We don’t just deliver reports. We help you implement solutions, by your side through every stage. Our team brings expertise in both accounting and advisory, so you get insight that’s strategic and financially sound. Plus, we’re proudly Melbourne-based, and believe the best outcomes happen when we’re on the ground with you. If you’re looking for advice that’s personal, practical, and proactive — not generic — that’s where The Co. makes a real difference.

Tax Accounting

What’s the difference between a tax accountant and a general accountant?

A general accountant handles broad financial reporting and bookkeeping tasks. A tax accountant specialises in tax compliance. For businesses, this means preparing and lodging returns, minimising tax liabilities, and ensuring you meet all ATO obligations.

Related: What to Expect From Your Tax Accountant

What types of tax services do you offer?

We assist with:

  • Tax planning strategies
  • Business tax returns
  • BAS/GST lodgements
  • ATO correspondence
  • Compliance with all regulatory obligations (including Superannuation, Payroll Tax, Land Tax, and Fringe Benefits Tax)
  • Asset protection
  • Income tax planning and monitoring

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How can tax planning save me money?

Effective tax planning helps reduce your tax liabilities and ensures you’re not paying more tax than necessary while remaining compliant. Steering clear of tax mistakes avoids penalties and keeps your finances on track.

Related: Common Tax Mistakes Businesses Should Avoid in Australia

Do you offer help with ATO audits or disputes?

Yes, we provide representation and support during ATO audits, reviews, and disputes to help you manage the process and achieve the best possible outcome.

Outsourced CFO Service

What is an outsourced CFO?

CFO stands for Chief Financial Officer, and is the person responsible for the financial leadership of your business. An outsourced CFO refers to a Chief Financial Officer who works with your business on a part-time or contract basis to fill this executive role — without the cost of hiring a full-time representative.

What are the benefits of hiring an outsourced CFO?

While financial leadership is essential, not every business can afford a full-time CFO. Outsourcing offers a flexible, cost-effective solution to getting high-level financial strategy without the overhead of a permanent hire. You also have the ability to adjust an outsourced CFO’s level of involvement as your business needs evolve. This makes it a smart, scalable way to strengthen financial performance yet ensure sustainable growth.

Beyond affordability and flexibility, the benefits of an outsourced CFO include:

  • Expert financial oversight
  • Better cash flow management
  • Strategic planning and forecasting
  • Preparing for investment and scaling operations
  • Consistent reporting
  • Saving time for business owners
  • Access to valuable networks of financial and legal professionals

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Related: How an Outsourced CFO Can Benefit Your Business

What size businesses do you work with as an outsourced CFO?

We usually work with small to medium-sized businesses experiencing growth or complexity that need strategic financial guidance.

Can an outsourced CFO help raise capital or secure funding?

Yes. We assist with financial modelling, investor communication, and speaking with banks or lenders to help secure funding or capital for your business.

WE’D LOVE TO WORK WITH YOU

Looking to grow, streamline, or restructure your business with The Co.? We’d love to start with a complimentary 2-hour consultation.

Get in touch

 

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Peter Mercuri

Founder and Managing Director

pmercuri@theco.com.au

BIO

Peter has always been results-driven with a passion for helping businesses grow. This passion is part of what makes The Co. stand out as an accounting firm.

Peter is a modern and dynamic thinker looking to break the mould of the stereotypical accounting persona. He is particularly skilled and experienced in the areas of tax planning and business strategies.

Peter lived and worked in London in 2009, where he witnessed a slump in the market. He worked as an international financial controller for a multinational engineering company, consequently gaining vast finance and management experience. Peter then returned to Australia and set up The Co. Accountants in the Melbourne CBD, working in the capacity of Director. He dedicates his time advising clients and businesses on how to achieve their goals.

Peter assists clients through effective strategic implementation and by ensuring they are guided through the process with a hands-on approach. It is not often that you’ll find Peter at the office behind his desk. He recognises that to gain a real perspective of a client’s business and provide sound advice, he needs to be on the front line and fully engaging in the workings of your company.

When you can peel him away from work, Peter loves spending time with his family, especially around the table with great food, or socialising with friends at the local brewery. He loves having a good laugh because, otherwise, life is little too serious.

Education

  • Deakin University, Melbourne
  • CA Qualifications

Areas of Expertise

  • Healthcare
  • Manufacturing
  • Hospitality
  • Construction
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Tim McColl

Partner

tmccoll@theco.com.au

BIO

Tim began his accounting career in his late teens, working full-time while completing his tertiary studies, then further completing his CA. He believes the most important strategy in life is the one you set for achieving your goals.

When partnering with clients, Tim has an honest and caring nature, helping them determine what they want to accomplish in their financial and business goals. A personalised, empathetic approach is a hallmark of Tim’s style.

Tim covers a broad range of clients, specialising in business tax and compliance advice. He prepares financial statements, helps clients manage their accounting systems and other routine business matters.

He is motivated by his clients’ success and finds great satisfaction in knowing his team contributed to this.

Education

  • Bachelor of Business RMIT
  • CA Qualified

Areas of Expertise

  • Healthcare
  • Manufacturing
  • Hospitality
  • Construction
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Khairil (CK) Choong

Business Services Manager

kchoong@theco.com.au

BIO

Khairil Choong (CK) is The Co’s Business Services Manager.

CK joined The Co. in June 2022 and brings with him over 25 years of professional experience from his work  in industries as diverse as  logistics, finance, manufacturing and retail. This broad experience has taught CK that success is always tied to delivering the optimal customer experience.

CK holds a Bachelor of Business (Accountancy) from RMIT and is a qualified accountant, having been awarded his CPA designation in 2009.

CK’s professional qualifications, when combined with his practice management responsibilities and unwavering customer focus create a unique synergy which helps ensures that The Co. is always operating at its best.

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Biljana Risteska

Manager

bristeska@theco.com.au

BIO

Biljana is an experienced public practice accountant with a passion for tax. She has had exposure to a vast variety of industries and clients, and particularly enjoys tax planning and accounting for smsfs. Her desire for continuous learning ensures clients are exposed to up-to-date tax advice.

In her spare time, she enjoys reading and doing crossword puzzles.

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Alicia Ong

Assistant Manager

aong@theco.com.au

BIO

Alicia is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with over 10 years of experience in public accounting. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to providing exceptional financial services to individuals and businesses across a wide range of industries. With her personalized approach, Alicia ensures that each client receives tailored solutions to meet their specific needs and goals.

As a versatile team player, Alicia understands the various areas of financial management. Her knowledge spans across financial compliance, tax preparation and planning, SMSF compliance and audit, and audit review. She consistently demonstrates her ability to navigate complex financial regulations and deliver accurate and reliable results.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Alicia cherishes her time with family, friends, and beloved pets. She finds joy in exploring the vibrant city of Melbourne, indulging in its culinary delights, and embarking on new food adventures. Alicia’s dedication to both her work and personal life exemplifies her balanced and fulfilling approach to success.

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Mark Pannuzzo

Assistant Manager

mpannuzzo@theco.com.au

BIO

Mark is a meticulous senior accountant with a fierce attention to detail. He is a reliable professional with a demonstrated history of working within the tax advisory and business services industry. Mark has had exposure to a diverse range of clients operating predominantly within the construction, property development and professional services industries. Mark takes unequivocal care in his work/advice and aims to lead by example. With a progressive mindset and an inherent ability to manage, he will certainly always endeavour to yield a mutually advantageous outcome for his clients and the firm.

Outside of the office, Mark loves the game of golf and the St Kilda Football Club. He is also a self-proclaimed foodie and enjoys time in the kitchen with those closest to him.

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Zac Ibrhaim-McCarty

Assistant Manager

zibrhaimmccarty@theco.com.au

BIO

Zac is a Chartered Accountant specialising in resolving tax issues for business owners. With experience ranging from Australian subsidiaries of multinational organisations to sole traders and small enterprises, Zac excels in simplifying complex tax situations, making compliance and planning accessible and straightforward.

Known for a business-minded approach, Zac aligns financial practices with long-term business goals, helping clients develop tax-efficient strategies and manage compliance effectively. Dedicated to contributing to client success and growth, Zac brings both expertise and practicality to every engagement.

Outside of work, Zac enjoys playing basketball, taking the scenic route on the golf course and going out to enjoy a meal with family and friends, balancing professional dedication with personal passions.

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Paul Reed

Senior Accountant

preed@theco.com.au

BIO

Paul is an experienced taxation accountant who started at The Co. in early-2020. He has worked within several public practices and has good knowledge in the medical, retail and light industry areas.

Paul is always looking to assist clients and happy to go that ‘extra step’.

He is a keen football follower and likes to keep active, jogging and hiking both being favourite pastimes.

Education

  • Master of Accounting, Bachelor of Commerce
  • CA Qualified

Areas of Expertise

  • Medical
  • Retail
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Lucas Sa

Accountant

BIO

Lucas is an enthusiastic and motivated professional, with more than ten years of experience in financial and accounting processes, with a differentiated profile, able to offer efficient solutions in the finance and accounting fields. He has a strong ability to analyse problems, with excellent analytical qualities, able to understand and adjust work procedures, looking at maximum efficiency in the results. High capacity to prevent scenarios, which makes it easier to anticipate ideas for solving problems. Multitasking profile, being able to work simultaneously with several activities, maintaining excellence in the quality of the work provided.

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Karla da Cruz

Accountant

kdacruz@theco.com.au

BIO

Karla has over twelve years of experience in the accounting field as an accountant and tax analyst. With her solid analytical and process improvement abilities, Karla has experience working with a variety of clients and industries.

She is enthusiastic, enjoys the supportive team dynamic, is constantly eager to expand her expertise and take on responsibilities and challenges. She is currently working towards her CPA qualification.

She is most passionate about delivering top-notch services and cultivating long-lasting relationships with customers at The Co.

In her spare time, Karla likes socialising with friends and family, going camping for the day, playing video games, and playing the drums.

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Jackson Hurst

Accountant

jhurst@theco.com.au

BIO

Jackson is a dedicated and enthusiastic accountant with a growing foundation in the field. Known for his eagerness to learn and expand his knowledge, Jackson has quickly developed a keen understanding of financial principles and practices and brings a fresh perspective and a proactive attitude to the team. He has demonstrated a strong ability to adapt and excel in a dynamic work environment and his passion for continuous improvement and dedication to professional growth make him a valuable asset to the firm.

Outside of the office, Jackson enjoys camping and exploring the great outdoors. He is also a food enthusiast who loves discovering and indulging in delicious culinary experiences.

Let's work together

Our Melbourne CBD Accountants are passionate about understanding the true purpose behind your business. By marrying this insight with expert knowledge and support, we’re able to communicate much more than just the facts. At The Co. Accountants, we pride ourselves on becoming a reliable partner who is invested in the success of your business.

With a diverse mix of experts and industry-leading advisors, accessible when you need them, The Co. Accountants offers you world-class business accounting and financial planning services with local flair. As forerunners in the space, we provide our clients with an eclectic mix of offerings: from Book Keeping to Tax Compliance to Business Advisory to Outsourced CFO services, our full suite of services and multi-faceted approach means we ensure lasting change.

Remember, we’re not like the rest of the competition. We truly care about seeing our clients succeed. For us, it’s about much more than just great numbers. At The Co., we believe in building relationships that last while delivering exceptional results which set you apart from the competition. Together, this collective team spirit allows us to hone in on your challenges with a driving focus that provides maximum value to your business.

SAY HELLO

+61 3 8488 9800
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Mon-Fri 9am to 5:30pm (AEST)
info@theco.com.au

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