G’Day Mate: Weaver Staff Goes Abroad Part 2

This year Weaver had three senior staff members participate in the Weaver Secondment Program, two working in Australia and one in New Zealand. Scott Winkler of Weaver Dallas shares his Aussie experience below.

Name: Scott Winkler
Position: Senior Associate II, Audit, Dallas
Dates: July – October 2014
Location: Sydney, Australia
Host Firm: Pitcher Partners

What were the objectives of the secondment? 

To learn new business practices and experience a different culture.

Briefly detail your secondment experience.

I worked on a variety of engagements, was able to travel on multiple occasions within Australia, and had to the opportunity to attend all of the host firm’s social events.

What have you learned as a result of the secondment experience? 

I learned a different audit methodology, which is a risk-based approach based on a confidence points system, as well as some different sampling methodologies, including monetary-unit sampling (MUS). I also learned a different auditing software package, CaseWare, and I even dealt with some audit areas that are not applicable in the U.S., including the goods and services tax (GST) and long service leave provisions.

To these who are interested in the secondment opportunities, what will you tell them?

It is definitely worth the experience. Sydney has better weather than Melbourne. And working hours are very reasonable (8:45-5:15).

Did you pick up a local phrase or habit while there?

“Heaps” (Q: How was the Lowenbrau last night?  A: Aw Mate, heaps fun.)
“Reckon” (Used instead of the word “think.”)
“Mates rates” (When you get a good deal on something because you know someone, like a friends and family discount.)

What was something that surprised you about the local culture?

Beer at lunch is completely OK. And no one tips anywhere. They have a “tip” line on receipts when you pay by card, but this is mainly just to fool Americans into thinking it is customary. If you really, really feel inclined to tip, round up to nearest dollar. 

What was a challenge you had to overcome while being in Australia?

There are coins for $1 and $2, instead of bills. 50 cent pieces are common and huge (the size of a U.S. 50 cent piece). But because a lot of places are cash-only, my wallet was constantly burdened with change. And a 6-pack of beer is nearly $20!