2019 NATIONAL TAX CLINIC PROJECT: CURTIN UNIVERSITY – CURTIN TAX CLINIC
DONOVANCASTELYN, STEPHANIE BRUCE AND ANNETTE MORGAN
Abstract
This article chronicles the experience of the Curtin Tax Clinic during the 2019 National Tax Clinic Program pilot. Relevantly, this work provides a detailed overview of the design of the Curtin Tax Clinic, the role of clinical staff, student involvement, and the services provided to clients. Reflective accounts of the student experience and client case studies demonstrate the perceived value, and key learnings and challenges of the initiative. Observably, students found that their experience in the Curtin Tax Clinic promoted their sense of community and belonging, in addition to improving their understanding of taxation law and developing greater confidence in their social and professional abilities. Additionally, clients benefited from the suite of taxation services offered by the Curtin Tax Clinic, with many reporting high levels of satisfaction and improved understanding of their taxation obligations. The article concludes with an endorsement for the National Tax Clinic Program and provides key recommendations for the continued success of the initiative.