Accountant (Remote)

Company Overview

Schetzer Papaleo Family Lawyers is one of Melbourne's premier specialist family law firms. With a reputation for excellence and a client-first approach, we help individuals and families navigate some of life's most complex and emotionally charged issues with dignity, professionalism, and compassion. Our team of experienced legal experts, led by respected practitioners in the field, is committed to high-quality outcomes, clear communication, and ethical conduct.

We are now seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Accountant to join our supportive administrative team and help manage our financial operations efficiently.

About the Role

The Accountant plays a key role in ensuring the firm's financial records are accurate and up to date, staff are paid correctly and on time, and compliance obligations are met. This role requires excellent attention to detail, a strong understanding of Australian bookkeeping and payroll principles, and the ability to work autonomously while supporting the broader administrative and legal team.

The team at Schetzer Papaleo Family Lawyers is seeking an Accountant with experience working in an Australian legal practice, preferably within a Victorian family law practice.

This role is being recruited by Clarke Point, a premier Singapore-based agency dedicated to delivering global recruitment and staffing solutions, ) and is for a long-term, full-time Independent Contractor.

Key Responsibilities

Bookkeeping

• Maintain accurate financial records using Xero accounting software
• Manage accounts payable and receivable, including invoice creation and reconciliation
• Conduct monthly bank and trust account reconciliations in line with legal trust accounting requirements
• Assist with preparation of financial reports for internal review and external accountants
• Manage petty cash and credit card reconciliations
• Prepare and lodge BAS and IAS under supervision of external accountants

Payroll Administration

• Process fortnightly or monthly payroll for staff, ensuring compliance with relevant awards and Fair Work obligations
• Maintain employee records in accordance with statutory requirements
• Manage superannuation payments and ensure timely lodgment with clearing houses
• Prepare and lodge Single Touch Payroll (STP) submissions
• Coordinate with the Practice Manager on payroll changes, terminations, and onboarding of new staff

Compliance and Support

• Trust account bookkeeping and scheduling payments
• Assist with end-of-financial-year payroll and bookkeeping processes
• Prepare monthly reports
• Document processes
• Liaise with external accountants and auditors when necessary
• Maintain confidentiality of all financial and personal information
• Provide administrative support to the Practice Manager and Directors as required

Mandatory Criteria

• Experience working as an Independent Contractor for an Australian, American or similar client
• Experience with trust accounting obligations under the Legal Profession Uniform Law
• 3+ years experience in bookkeeping and payroll administration within the Australian legal industry, preferably a family law practice
• Proficiency in Xero (including Payroll) and Microsoft Excel
• Understanding of Australian accounting, taxation, and payroll legislation
• High attention to detail, accuracy, and time management skills
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and maintain confidentiality
• Relevant qualifications in Accounting, Bookkeeping, or Payroll Administration (preferred)

Nice-to-Haves

• Experience working in a law firm or other professional services environment (especially with legal trust accounts).
• Familiarity with LEAP or similar practice management software used in law firms.
• Previous involvement in payroll audits or preparation for end-of-year financial reporting.
• Knowledge of award interpretation and calculating entitlements under the Legal Services Award.
• Exposure to HR administration tasks such as onboarding, staff compliance tracking, or leave management.

Ideal Personality Attributes for Success

• Discreet and Trustworthy – Understands the importance of confidentiality and handles sensitive information with care.
• Meticulous and Detail-Oriented – Has a sharp eye for accuracy, especially when it comes to payroll and trust account compliance.
• Proactive Problem Solver – Anticipates issues and takes initiative to resolve them without needing direction.
• Calm Under Pressure – Can manage workload spikes around payroll cycles, reporting deadlines, or audits with composure.
• Collaborative Communicator – Comfortable liaising with the Practice Manager, legal team, and external accountants in a professional and respectful manner.

Remote Work Setup Requirements

To ensure a smooth and professional remote working experience, candidates must have the following:

• Quiet and Dedicated Home Office Setup –

• Professional and distraction-free workspace

• Ergonomic chair and desk recommended

• Laptop or Desktop Computer – Minimum specifications:

• Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processor (or better)

• At least 8GB RAM
• Windows 10 or macOS 11 and above

• Stable Internet Connection – Minimum speed of 25 Mbps (download/upload)

• Wired (LAN) connection for stability is preferred

• Backup internet source (e.g., pocket Wi-Fi or mobile hotspot) is a plus

• Clear Audio Equipment –

• Noise-cancelling headset with built-in microphone

• Clear audio for calls and video meetings
• Working Webcam – Required for virtual meetings and team check-ins

• Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) or access to a backup power source

• Especially important for areas prone to power outages

• Up-to-date Antivirus or Security Software – To protect company and client data

Compensation Package

This role is for a long-term, full-time Independent Contractor with the following additional perks:

• Philippine Regular Holidays: 100% pay if not worked; 200% pay if worked.
• Philippine Special Non-Working Holidays: Additional 30% pay if worked.
• Vacation Leave: 12 days per year, granted upon successful completion of the probation period.
• Sick Leave: 6 days per year, available annually.
• Health Insurance Allowance: ₱2,500 per month provided toward family health insurance after the probation period.
• Flexible Work Environment: Fully remote, Monday to Friday, aligned with Australian business hours.

Schetzer Papaleo Family Lawyers is based in Melbourne, Australia, thus the work hours will follow Melbourne time (GMT +10) with some flexibility.

How to Apply

For your application to be considered, please submit the following:

• Your resume
• A short cover letter outlining your suitability for this role. Your cover letter must include the word "CLARKE" in capital letters and a summary of your experience working as a full-time independent contractor or online freelancer.

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