About Us
A local team, focused on doing things properly
Our goal is simple.
Do the best possible job for each client, every time.
Based in Northam, we work with businesses and families across the Wheatbelt, providing practical accounting and advisory services built on trust, consistency and care.
At Focused Tax Solutions, we have a “One Customer” mentality. Once we have finished doing the very best we can for that customer, we move onto the next and do the very same thing for them.
Are we interested in more customers? Sure, but not to the extent that we compromise on our core philosophy. We want to be the best that we can be and achieve the best results for our clients, whether we have just one of them, or thousands.
Everything you need
We offer a full-service approach to accounting and business support, working across everything from tax and compliance through to structuring, planning and long-term strategy. We can assist with every aspect of advice and assistance for the SME (Small to Medium Enterprise).*
We can help you with:
- Advice & consulting
- Audit protection insurance policies
- Benchmarking your business
- Business Activity Statements
- Company secretarial services
- Preparation of Financial Statements and Income Tax Returns
- Self Managed Superannuation Funds
- Taxation Strategies
- and so much more...
*SME is any business with a turnover less than 10 million.
Meet our Team
Rick Kennedy
Director
Rick has over 30 years’ experience in public accounting, working closely with small businesses across a wide range of industries. He has a particular focus on primary production and enjoys working through the more complex challenges his clients face, alongside managing the day-to-day running of the practice.
Originally from Pemberton, Rick is a proud country local and plays an active role in both the business and the community. He is married to Rackel, and together they have a combined total of 10 children.
Outside of work, you’ll likely find him on the golf course — although results may vary.
Kelsey Lawrence
Director
Kelsey was appointed Director of Focused Tax Solutions in August 2018 and has been part of the team since 2008. She provides taxation services to small businesses across a wide range of industries, bringing a practical and down-to-earth approach to her work.
Having grown up in Northam, Kelsey values the country lifestyle and enjoys being part of the local community. Her husband Jayden is a farmer and she is currently working 3 days a week as they had their daughter in 2023. Outside of work, she enjoys playing hockey and spending time with family and friends.
Joanne Niski
Director
Jo joined Focused Tax Solutions in July 2017 and was appointed Director in October 2023. She brings strong experience in accounting and taxation, supporting clients with practical and reliable advice.
Originally from Perth Jo moved to Northam at 15, where she completed her schooling at Northam Senior High School. Since then she has embraced the country lifestyle and built strong rural ties. She lives in Jennacubbine with her husband Shane, a Goomalling local, together they have two children. Outside of work she enjoys time with family and friends, heading to the beach and exploring new places in the caravan.
Thomas Bennetts
CPA Accountant
Thomas has been part of the Focused Tax Solutions team since July 2017. He completed his accounting degree at ECU in 2019 and went on to achieve his CPA accreditation in 2025.
He works across a range of taxation matters, with a particular interest in self-managed superannuation funds, helping clients navigate more complex areas with confidence.
Thomas has lived in Northam since the age of 15 and enjoys singing and acting (you might have seen him at the local Link Theatre!), along with working with computers and spending time with friends.
Allison Ferguson
CPA Accountant
Allison has been with Focused Tax Solutions since August 2019. She completed her accounting degree through Curtin University and has since achieved her CPA qualifications.
Born in Northam, Allison is the oldest of 9 siblings and has 3 daughters with her husband. She spends her free time with community involvement, including playing and coaching hockey.
Other interests also include gardening, crocheting and crafts.
Karen Lupton
Bookkeeper
Karen joined Focused Tax Solutions in March 2019. Born in Northam, she has been working in accounting firms since the age of 17, including eleven years as a self-employed bookkeeper.
She brings a wealth of practical experience to her role and supports clients with reliable day-to-day financial management.
Karen is a mother of four and enjoys spending time with her family. She also has a talent for cake decorating.
Rackel Kennedy
Office Manager
Rackel has been part of Focused Tax Solutions since 2011 and oversees the day-to-day running of the practice. She manages systems and processes to ensure the team works together efficiently, creating a supportive and professional environment for both clients and staff.
She is often the first point of contact for clients and is always happy to assist with enquiries or coordinate with the team to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Known for her infectious laugh, Rackel brings warmth and energy to the office. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, along with her interests in antiques, cooking and gardening.
Donna Stanyer
Bookkeeper
Donna joined Focused Tax Solutions in January 2023 and is responsible for bookkeeping and BAS preparation. Originally from Wales, she relocated to Australia for the second time in 2014 and now enjoys life in regional WA with her husband and two daughters.
Donna values time with family, making regular trips back to Wales when she can, and enjoys exploring WA with her family on weekend outings.
Beth Clark
Bookkeeper
Beth joined Focused Tax Solutions in 2024. Having recently completed a Certificate IV in Bookkeeping, she brings a foundation of knowledge and passion for bookkeeping to the team.
Beth enjoys supporting clients with their day-to-day financial needs and takes pride in helping keep things organised and running smoothly. Having grown up in Northam, Beth appreciates the sense of community and enjoys being part of a local business. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends.
Amy Blechynden
Receptionist
Amy joined the Focused Tax Solutions team in 2026. She grew up in Northam and her extended family still lives in the area.
Amy loves being in the country and spending her spare time either staying at home with family and friends, or out socialising at various sporting events like football, netball and horse racing.