Tax time can be daunting, especially for students juggling academics, part-time jobs, and limited budgets. Fortunately, Curtin’s Tax Clinic is an on-campus, free clinic that offers invaluable support.
We were lucky enough to have a chat with Jaime, an accounting and taxation student, and Violet, a staff member at the Clinic, about managing your finances as a student and how the Clinic can support you.
Jaime first discovered the Clinic after seeing a sign on campus. She decided to give the service a go, and found it helped her immensely! Now, giving back to the Clinic, she works there 1 day a week throughout the semester, gaining credits towards a unit. Violet is a Lecturer within the Department of Taxation and a passionate Clinic staff member who understands how important financial literacy is, no matter who you are.
How can the Curtin Tax Clinic help you?
From tax return assistance to personalised consultations, the Clinic covers a wide range of needs. From providing advice on tax obligations and general tax issues, to helping to resolve tax disputes with the Australian Taxation Office, tax education and personalised consultations, the Clinic is an excellent resource to make the most of at tax time – and any time throughout the year.
These services are available both in-person and online, which is great for students with accessibility needs or for those living remotely.
Jaime says that the Clinic can be incredibly helpful, and that many students could benefit from the services offered.
“Students often lack sufficient knowledge about tax laws and financial management, but tax is a serious obligation and it’s important to be well informed.”
Violet echoes Jaime about the benefits of the Clinic.
“We have all heard the saying that knowledge is power. Financial literacy empowers students to make informed and better financial decisions that are appropriate for their individual circumstances.” This includes everything from budgeting, understanding taxes, managing credit, and planning for the future.
The accessibility and affordability of the service is something to investigate if you need assistance. Having a free pathway that can reduce financial stress and uncertainty, can empower you to manage your finances better and make well-informed financial decisions.
Simple saving strategies for managing your money
Managing finances as a student can be daunting, but implementing some practical strategies into your life can make a significant difference.
Jaime’s number one tip for managing your finances as a student is to regularly review your bank statements to be realistic about budget amount. She encourages you to allow yourself some wiggle room and remember that saving is a mental game. “It’s the habit of saving that matters, not the amount.” She also reminded us that The Barefoot Investor is always worth a read.
Taking control of your finances is an awesome way to contribute to your own sense of financial security, positively affect your mental health and wellbeing. Some other useful tips to help you build healthy financial habits, include:
- Create a budget and save a small amount regularly
- Plan for emergencies
- Seek advice from the Curtin Tax Clinic (*wink*)
- Use tools like budgeting apps or free Excel templates to track your expenses, which might help remind you to think twice about those unnecessary purchases.
Curtin’s Tax Clinic is a fantastic resource for navigating the tricky world of taxes. By boosting your financial know-how, offering essential tax help, and sharing practical money management tips, the Clinic can make your life a whole lot easier, as well as empower you with financial knowledge for the rest of your student life.
This tax time, you can stress less about tax-related challenges. Visit the Curtin Tax Clinic website for more information about how they can assist you.
You’ve got this!
