2019 National Tax Clinic Pilot project : Western Sydney University

This article reports the experience of the federally funded National Tax Clinic pilot conducted at Western Sydney University during 2019. It outlines the design of the Tax Clinic, the role of academics, student involvement and the assistance provided to clients. Observations of the Tax Clinic experience are reported using a reflective case study approach combined with results from student and client surveys. Key findings include the main challenges in launching and running the clinic, the academic’s experience, learning outcomes for students and the client’s perspective of value. Overall, students found their work-integrated learning experience in the Tax Clinic was effective in developing their communication skills, problem solving skills and research skills in addition to improving their application of taxation law, developing their professional identity and improving their empathic ability. Besides having their tax matters attended to, clients benefited from taxation education, leading to improved confidence in tax and many reporting improved financial and mental wellbeing. The paper also provides recommendations to improve efficiency of the Tax Clinic and to extend its reach and improve financial and tax literacy education.