Accounting is often seen as a numbers game – precise, analytical, and transactional.
Yet behind every set of figures is a person with real-life challenges, aspirations, and stories.
Likewise, accountants themselves are more than professionals; they are humans navigating complexity, juggling responsibilities, and seeking meaning in their work.
As AI and automation take care of the numbers, the real value of accountants increasingly comes from human connection – meaningful conversations, genuine empathy, and a holistic approach that supports wellbeing.
Wiley’s recent research reinforces this, noting that ‘soft skills’ have become more important than ever in the age of AI.
Wholeness Behind the Numbers is not a conference, nor a seminar nor a typical ‘business training’. Through a blend of group and individual work you will be invited to hold up a mirror, to apply practical strategies to deepen emotional intellgence, live more authentically, connect more deeply, and experience greater joy.
The workshop is for public practice accountants who work directly with clients – those who want to go beyond ‘the technical’ and create meaningful connections with their people. The areas of focus in this program are fully consistent with the CPA capability assessment framework.
Learning Objectives: by the end of this workshop, participants will
- See beyond the numbers: Understand clients as whole individuals, not just financial data.
- Reconnect with purpose: Recognise the human dimension of their own professional identity.
- Leverage technology for connection: Use AI-driven efficiencies to create space for meaningful conversations.
- Develop practical strategies: Integrate empathy, resilience, and authenticity into client interactions and personal wellbeing
Expected Outcomes: participants will leave with
- A refined sense of purpose and connection in their role
- Practical tools for humanising client interactions
- Insights into balancing technology and human touch
- Strategies for fostering wellbeing and wholeness in themselves and their practice
Logistics:
Facilitators: David Mallard FCPA and Liz Shimmin FCPA.
Date: Thursday February 12, 2026
Time: 9AM – 6PM
Venue: Conference Room – Currawong Bush Park – 277/285 Reynolds Road, Doncaster East (just east of the start/end of Springvale Road).
Investment: $699.00 (plus GST)
CPD: 8 hours of CPD available.
This program is limited to 14 participants to ensure a personalised experience. What you put into this program is directly related to what you take out – the workshop will stretch you…in a good way!
Your Lead Facilitator
David Mallard FCPA is an extensively experienced trainer, coach, mentor, guide, adviser and consultant and has been actively involved in human development work for over 25 years. He is trained in Breathwork, accredited in the DiSC personality profile, holds a Cert. IV in Training & Assessment, is certified in Mental Health First Aid as well as holding Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.
David is a graduate of the professional ‘Wild Mind Training Program’ with the Animas Valley Institute of Colorado. He has extensive senior executive experience working closely with CEO’s and Boards and was formerly the Chief Audit Executive in one of Australia’s largest organisations.
In parallel David has facilitated hundreds of personal growth meetings, workshops and seminars. In 1998 he co-founded the NFP and tax deductible registered charity Melbourne Men’s Group Inc and is also the Treasurer of Soulcraft ANZ Inc. David is a recipient of CPA Australia’s ‘President’s Award for Excellence – Distinguished Service‘ with a specific focus on Human Development and Mental Health.
Your Co-Facilitator
Liz Shimmin FCPA is CEO of Bluebird Accounting and a Henry Fox award recepient in 2025, recognising her outstanding service to public practice in Victoria. She is a member of CPA Australia’s public practice committee and works towards client business transformation, actively collaborating with clients to move ahead in their business and personal financial situations. Liz maintains a consistent focus on respect, honesty and transparency in her relationships and is passionate about supporting Accountants to embrace authenticity and stronger human connection.
