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Michelle Hunt, Lorkin Delpero Harris Pty Ltd
Five qualifications. Two young children. One full-time career. When Michelle became Dux of ATL007 Advanced Superannuation, she proved that excellence doesn’t require choosing between professional ambition and family life. It requires strategy, determination, and knowing when to pursue knowledge that matters.
From Tasmania to New Zealand and back again
Michelle’s interest in working in tax started while studying business in high school. At 17 years old, she moved to Tasmania and went on to pursue an accounting course at Hobart TAFE. What started with an inspiring teacher evolved into a 20-year journey spanning two countries, multiple roles, and an impressive collection of credentials that includes a Bachelor of Commerce, a graduate diploma and now, top honours in one of the tax profession’s most challenging subjects.
“The tax teacher at TAFE was very passionate and eager to share their experience which solidified my interest in pursuing a career in this area” she recalls.
She began her tax journey with Lorkin Delpero Harris Pty Ltd in 2007, whilst studying her Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Tasmania. By 2015, ready for a new challenge, she made the bold move and relocated to New Zealand where she gained exposure to international tax issues.
“I value the knowledge I gained from experiencing international taxation from another country’s perspective.”
Returning to Australia, in 2021 Michelle joined a sole practitioner as a senior accountant. The role offered something precious: flexibility to study the CTA2B Advanced subject whilst raising two young children.
“The combination of the complexities of the tax system and the important role of taxation contributed to shaping my sense of purpose in my career in tax.”
By 2022, she’d progressed to a director role and then in 2024 came a full-circle moment. She reconnected with the team at Lorkin Delpero Harris Pty Ltd in pursuit of building client relationships and gaining further expertise in superannuation.
When theory transforms into practice
For Michelle, superannuation isn’t just another tax specialty. It’s where theory meets some of the most consequential financial decisions Australians make.
“Given that superannuation is a significant asset for many Australians, the knowledge I have gained in superannuation and estate planning in invaluable,” she says.
“I’ve learned strategies for discussing matters for consideration with clients and the implications around control of their superannuation.”
The ATL007 Advanced Superannuation course pushed her to master the intricacies of superannuation and estate planning at a level that immediately elevated her practice.
“This subject increased my knowledge in superannuation law, strategy and compliance rapidly,” Michelle notes. “I found I was able to apply my knowledge to assist clients and staff immediately. Working through the intricacies of superannuation and estate planning within this subject has helped me develop the skills of applying strategies for the management of tax liabilities in superannuation funds and that of beneficiaries and in return, it has completely changed how I approach these conversations.”
The path forward
Michelle isn’t resting on her current achievements. She’s already planning her next move and plans to pursue the CTA designation with a focus on GST. “The ability to dive deeper into the intricacies of tax law and work out how the different pieces fit together makes it truly fascinating,” she says, the enthusiasm from her TAFE days still evident.
Achieving excellence without the sacrifice
Her advice for other tax professionals considering further study comes from hard-won experience?
“Try to find balance between your existing commitments and finding time to study,” she advises.
“It is important to find a sustainable schedule that you can maintain within your lifestyle for the study period. It’s possible to achieve both but only if you are strategic about how you approach it.”
As Dux of ATL007 Advanced Superannuation, Michelle's demonstrated that with the right support, clear goals, and unwavering commitment, it's possible to excel in study, work, and family life simultaneously.