Real Student Projects That Matter
Our students tackle actual savings challenges from Australian businesses and families. These aren't textbook exercises—they're real-world financial strategies that create genuine impact.
Beyond Theory
Last semester, our students helped a Dubbo family reduce their monthly expenses by $800 without sacrificing their lifestyle. Another team created a savings plan for a local café that improved their cash flow by 30%.
These outcomes happen because we partner with real businesses and families facing actual financial decisions. Students work directly with clients, analyzing spending patterns, identifying opportunities, and presenting actionable strategies.
- Small business expense audits with measurable savings
- Family budgeting strategies tested in real households
- Investment planning for first-time buyers
- Retirement planning scenarios based on actual circumstances
Meet Our Project Leaders
These students completed major financial projects in 2024 and now mentor incoming cohorts starting their studies in late 2025.
Keiran Sinclair
Business Savings Specialist
Led the café cash flow project, finding ways to reduce supplier costs and optimize inventory spending. His analysis helped the business save $2,400 quarterly.
Rhea Thorne
Family Finance Analyst
Worked with three families to create customized budgeting systems. Her approach focuses on sustainable changes that actually stick long-term.
Darren Blackwood
Investment Strategy Designer
Developed first-time buyer savings plans that account for Sydney and Melbourne market realities. His strategies adapt to changing interest rates.
How Projects Really Work
We've refined our project approach over three years of working with real clients. Here's what students actually do during their 8-month program.
1
Client Discovery
Students interview real families or business owners to understand their financial situation. This isn't role-playing—it's actual consultation with people seeking help with their money management.
2
Data Analysis
Teams analyze 6-12 months of actual financial records, identifying spending patterns and potential savings opportunities. They use professional tools like Excel, MYOB, and specialized budgeting software.
3
Strategy Development
Students create detailed recommendations based on their findings. These aren't generic suggestions—they're specific action plans tailored to each client's circumstances and goals.
4
Implementation Support
The best part is seeing results. Students help clients implement their recommendations and track progress over several months, adjusting strategies based on real outcomes.
Upcoming Program Timeline
Our next cohort begins in September 2025, with project work starting in November. Students complete their major client projects by April 2026.
September 2025
Foundation Skills
Students learn core financial analysis techniques, budgeting principles, and client communication skills. This foundation prepares them for real project work.
November 2025
Client Matching
Teams are paired with real clients—local families, small businesses, or individuals seeking financial guidance. Initial meetings establish project scope and goals.
January 2026
Deep Analysis Phase
Students spend 10 weeks analyzing their client's financial situation, identifying patterns, and developing comprehensive savings strategies.
April 2026
Results Presentation
Final presentations showcase student recommendations and early implementation results. Clients provide feedback on the practical value of proposed strategies.