Moneypenny have become legend in the Australian arts scene. Have a look at the end credits of most Aussie films and you'll see Moneypenny
mentioned. Not only that, they're named after the sexiest Bond girl ever (at least we think so). Here's some more info about these Groovies...
mentioned. Not only that, they're named after the sexiest Bond girl ever (at least we think so). Here's some more info about these Groovies...
We chatted to Mark Clyburn, who was at the time an accountant at Moneypenny Services. Moneypenny were nominated as a
Groovy by Jacinta, a Freelance Success veteran. She described them by saying "They all seem like people you'd talk to on a
night out in town". Sounds good to us!
Do you have much experience working with creative freelancers?
We only have experience with creative freelancers. Our clientele are all in creative industries and we strive to teach, and learn
from, the Australian Tax Office to inform them of better ways to serve the arts and the artists in this country.
Do you specialise in any particular creative areas?
Not as such. It's hard to be specific as the list could go on and on and on and on and... well, you get the message! In truth, there
is no creative area that we do not, or can not, benefit. We're not limited to these industries, but we have clients in radio, TV, film,
music, DJ, journalist, writing, painting, designing, theatre, landscape and adult industries. (ooh-er! - ed) If someone were to
come along that was way outside the box - we would welcome them with open arms because there's nothing that we don't want
to learn, and experience, from the creative world.
What is the ideal relationship that a creative freelancer can have with his or her accountant?
Champagne and lollies!! (yay! -ed) Well, not quite but a metaphor can be made of it. We like to be familiar with our clients and as
close to 'friends' as a professional relationship will allow. It's best for both parties to be kept updated with the goings-on so that
no one is left in the dark. It's not uncommon for our staff to attend parties, awards nights and openings for our clients.
Are you able to inform your creative clients about:
Establishing the differences between being a hobbyist and being a business?
- Definitely!
Setting up and managing GST responsibilities?
- Definitely!
Managing PAYG instalments?
- Definitely!
Deductions specific to their field?
- Definitely!
Averaging for special professionals?
- Definitely!
Would you like to say anything to creative freelancers who might be looking for a new accountant?
Never give up. The arts, and its related industries, are the most important of all. They cultivate and nurture passion, innovation,
creativity and information. I say this so that if you feel that the financial side of your path is starting to get you down and you feel
overwhelmed, please make the effort to go to an accountant so they can lighten your load. It's worth it in the end. Don't lose the
love because of money - an accountant can help.
How much do you charge?
Judging by the difficulty and complexity of each person, it basically starts at $350 + GST. We don’t charge by the hour – the fee is a
flat rate which includes meetings, phone calls and emailing! If you own businesses or rental properties, it can go higher but
nothing astronomical. The price may seem high, especially since freelancers and their incomes can be up and down, but you're
paying for the specialty service and knowledge that we provide, along with having a special relationship - you get an 'accountant'
that you can call year-round with any issues you may have, and a person who will understand your annoyances and plight.
Thanks Mark! Moneypenny are based at...
Groovy by Jacinta, a Freelance Success veteran. She described them by saying "They all seem like people you'd talk to on a
night out in town". Sounds good to us!
Do you have much experience working with creative freelancers?
We only have experience with creative freelancers. Our clientele are all in creative industries and we strive to teach, and learn
from, the Australian Tax Office to inform them of better ways to serve the arts and the artists in this country.
Do you specialise in any particular creative areas?
Not as such. It's hard to be specific as the list could go on and on and on and on and... well, you get the message! In truth, there
is no creative area that we do not, or can not, benefit. We're not limited to these industries, but we have clients in radio, TV, film,
music, DJ, journalist, writing, painting, designing, theatre, landscape and adult industries. (ooh-er! - ed) If someone were to
come along that was way outside the box - we would welcome them with open arms because there's nothing that we don't want
to learn, and experience, from the creative world.
What is the ideal relationship that a creative freelancer can have with his or her accountant?
Champagne and lollies!! (yay! -ed) Well, not quite but a metaphor can be made of it. We like to be familiar with our clients and as
close to 'friends' as a professional relationship will allow. It's best for both parties to be kept updated with the goings-on so that
no one is left in the dark. It's not uncommon for our staff to attend parties, awards nights and openings for our clients.
Are you able to inform your creative clients about:
Establishing the differences between being a hobbyist and being a business?
- Definitely!
Setting up and managing GST responsibilities?
- Definitely!
Managing PAYG instalments?
- Definitely!
Deductions specific to their field?
- Definitely!
Averaging for special professionals?
- Definitely!
Would you like to say anything to creative freelancers who might be looking for a new accountant?
Never give up. The arts, and its related industries, are the most important of all. They cultivate and nurture passion, innovation,
creativity and information. I say this so that if you feel that the financial side of your path is starting to get you down and you feel
overwhelmed, please make the effort to go to an accountant so they can lighten your load. It's worth it in the end. Don't lose the
love because of money - an accountant can help.
How much do you charge?
Judging by the difficulty and complexity of each person, it basically starts at $350 + GST. We don’t charge by the hour – the fee is a
flat rate which includes meetings, phone calls and emailing! If you own businesses or rental properties, it can go higher but
nothing astronomical. The price may seem high, especially since freelancers and their incomes can be up and down, but you're
paying for the specialty service and knowledge that we provide, along with having a special relationship - you get an 'accountant'
that you can call year-round with any issues you may have, and a person who will understand your annoyances and plight.
Thanks Mark! Moneypenny are based at...
| "Freelance Success delivers information in such a fun and quirky way. Even tax was a little bit fun!" - Cath Hughes, graphic designer, Phase Creative. |
| Building 19, Fox Studios Australia 38 Driver Ave Moore Park NSW 2021 |
You can email for more information on:
| Telephone: 02 9383 4580 Fax: 02 9383 4592 |
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Freelance Success is a registered trademark #1241679.
Freelance Success is another business adventure owned by...
Freelance Success is a registered trademark #1241679.
Freelance Success is another business adventure owned by...
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