UniSC Tax Clinic Business Program case study

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Program overview

The UniSC Tax Clinic Business Program helps small businesses and individuals better understand tax, feel more confident and reduce stress.

The University of Sunshine Coast (UniSC) delivered this program, funded through the Australian Government’s National Tax Clinic Program. City of Moreton Bay Business Boost initiative supports workshops focused on practical tax strategies. The workshops showcased the strong partnership between UniSC and City of Moreton Bay.

In 2025, the program provided free, high-quality tax support to small business owners and individuals.

Business owners tax challenges

Many participants came into the program unsure and overwhelmed. Most businesses were operating for less than two years and earning under $100,000 per year.

Common challenges included:

  • Not knowing what tax deductions they could claim.
  • Limited understanding of tax concepts.
  • Anxiety about compliance and ATO requirements.
  • Low tax literacy.
  • Financial vulnerability.
  • Confusion when moving between employment and self‑employment.
  • Trouble keeping up with paperwork and deadlines.

Solution

The program facilitated an environment that addressed these challenges directly. Participants shared their challenges to ensure that their concerns and needs were met.  

Who the program supported: 

  • Small businesses 
  • Entrepreneurs 
  • Individuals. 

The program delivered support in two ways: 

Personalised tax advice 

Personalised tax support was tailored to the needs of each individual. This personalised support addressed the client's individual circumstances. This approach reduced fear and the potential for judgement throughout the process. 

Practical tax workshops for startups and small businesses 

The practical tax workshops helped educate participants on strategies and common challenges to build capacity.

Program outcomes and impacts

The program improved business owners and individuals' tax capability and confidence.

Participants reported:

  • Better understanding of tax obligations.
  • Improved financial literacy.
  • Greater confidence to seek professional support.
  • Reduced stress related to tax and compliance.
  • High satisfaction across both service streams.

These results align with national research gathered from the National Tax Clinic program 2024. The reporting shows that access to tax support:

  • Improves confidence
  • Reduces stress
  • Strengthens business performance.

What past participants say

Feedback highlighted the program’s practical and emotional impact.

Participants said:

  • "Gave me hope for the future. I was desperate before the tax clinic.”
  • “Treated me with respect. I didn’t feel judged.”
  • “Awesome support for our small business.”
  • “They understand. They can see if I’ve made a mistake.”

What’s next

In 2026, UniSC will deliver more free tax workshops. These will focus on tax essentials and practical strategies for small business owners.

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