HLB Mann Judd establishes Australian sustainability committee
Accounting and consulting network HLB Mann Judd has established a Sustainability Steering Committee to develop internal initiatives and better support its clients on their ESG journeys.
The Sustainability Steering Committee (SSC) will be led by Sydney-based assurance and advisory partner Nicholas Guest alongside Michelle Warren, HLB Australasia director for financial and corporate reporting.
In addition, HLB Mann Judd will partner with carbon accounting technology provider Sumday to support clients in measuring their greenhouse emissions to an audit-ready standard, providing for accurate and reliable data.
“Regulatory changes are on the horizon, impacting not just large corporations but also dynamic and entrepreneurial SMEs,” Guest stated. “Financial accountants are uniquely placed to help clients on their sustainability journeys, and HLB is dedicated to supporting these clients in formalising their sustainability practices into effective policies that can be communicated to the wider community.”
The ten-strong committee – which further includes partners and directors across Adelaide, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Perth – will seek to foster an association-wide sustainability culture by promoting awareness and through the development of policies and education programs alongside meaningful initiatives, a move the firm says demonstrates its commitment to ESG.
“Our firm has always been connected with our communities, but we are always looking at innovative ways to do more,” Warren said. “Engaging our people to better understand risks and opportunities is crucial, and education is a key element of our sustainability approach. We are looking forward to taking on our own responsibility to make a positive and sustainable impact.”
Established in Tasmania in 2021 and counting Canva co-founder Cameron Adams among its investors, Sumday provides a platform for measuring, reporting, and managing greenhouse gas emissions, including across the business supply chain. The software provider has also recently signed partnerships with national accountancies Grant Thornton and Walker Wayland.
“We are delighted to partner with HLB Mann Judd, a firm full of incredible advisors who are taking steps to ensure their clients are equipped for success,” said co-founder and CEO Jessica Richmond. “Our shared goal is to make carbon accounting a natural part of everyday business. Together, we can help companies see the big picture, balancing financial and environmental considerations for a better future.”
