A career journey with purpose and passion
Published: 10 Apr 2025
A career journey with purpose and passion – member spotlight on Belinda Piffl, ATI, LBK Advisory
Belinda Piffl’s contributions to accounting have earned her national recognition as a finalist for Principal of the Year in the Women in Finance Awards not once, but four times. “To be acknowledged nationally from a small practice in Adelaide is a huge honour,” Belinda reflects, humbled by the recognition.
In this article, we sat down with Belinda to understand her career journey and learn how she got to where she is today.
From audit to practice co-owner
Belinda’s career started back in 2001 in audit, where she got a solid grounding in the accounting world. “I enjoyed the exposure to different facets of accounting,” she says, but it wasn’t until a secondment overseas that she realised tax was where her real interest lay.
After returning to Australia in 2005, she moved into commerce as a financial accountant for a global mining company. This role saw her working closely with tax professionals across the Asia Pacific and even teaching staff in New Zealand, China, Laos and Thailand about tax compliance.
A stint in London followed, where she managed a diverse team in housing management before eventually returning home to Adelaide and rejoining the mining sector. But it was after starting a family and moving back into public practice that Belinda’s career really took a pivotal turn. In 2018, following the sudden passing of her firm’s principal, Bob Kennedy, she and co-director, Linda Ciampa, stepped up to lead the practice. “It was a steep learning curve, but over the past seven years, we’ve grown the practice into a successful business while staying true to Bob’s values and vision,” she says proudly.
Balancing motherhood and career growth
After stepping back from full-time work to raise her two children, Belinda returned to work part-time and in 2017 joined a small taxation practice – a move that came with its own challenges, especially catching up on changes in tax legislation. To rebuild her confidence, she completed the CTA Foundations subject with The Tax Institute Higher Education, which she describes as “a crucial refresher that strengthened my expertise and gave me the confidence to step back in.”
Passion for education and clients
Belinda’s love for her work goes beyond tax returns.
“I enjoy educating clients about their responsibilities and helping them feel confident in their financial decisions,” she explains. Whether it’s guiding new business owners, simplifying tax concepts, or advocating for clients with the ATO, she thrives on making tax less intimidating.
She has also developed a strong interest in SMSFs. “Many clients have misconceptions about SMSFs,” she explains. “I take great pride in guiding them through the complexities of superannuation legislation, helping them to navigate their options with expanded knowledge and confidence.”
Running a small practice in today’s economic climate has had its challenges. Rising costs and the broader cost-of- living pressures have made balancing service fees with client affordability tricky. “Clients value what we do, but we’ve had to be mindful of their financial pressures,” Belinda shares. Finding that balance while maintaining high service standards has been key to the practice’s success.
Achievements and recognition
Belinda’s professional milestones reflect her dedication. Becoming a registered tax agent was a proud achievement, especially later in her career. She also credits The Tax Institute for supporting her growth, particularly through education programs and timely updates during the COVID era.
Her industry contributions haven’t gone unnoticed. Along with her multiple Principal of the Year nominations, her recognition as a Director of the Year finalist in 2024 highlights her impact in the field.
Inspiring the next generation
Belinda is passionate about encouraging more people to consider a career in tax. Her advice to those starting out? “Never stop learning, stay adaptable and take full advantage of memberships like The Tax Institute as their advocacy and resources are invaluable. The tax profession offers endless opportunities for growth and impact – embrace the journey and make it your own.”
Belinda’s journey is a testament to her genuine passion for helping others. Whether mentoring her team, supporting her clients, or steering her practice, she continues to lead with heart — showing what’s possible when you combine purpose with passion.
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