Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ) congratulates Jolene Elliott CA, named Indigenous Accountant of the Year at the 12th annual Australian Accounting Awards, held in Sydney on Eora Country.

The black-tie gala event celebrated excellence across the accounting profession. One of the evening’s most powerful moments was the recognition of Jolene — a descendant of the Yamatji people, Chartered Accountant, and founder of Karlaya Accounting & Business Advisory — for demonstrating excellence in her profession and commitment to Indigenous communities.

With over 20 years of experience, Jolene has built a practice that goes beyond traditional accounting. Karlaya is a female-led, First Nations-founded accounting firm supporting purpose-driven businesses. Her team has worked with over 200 clients across Australia, offering culturally inclusive, jargon-free accounting advice. 

Her work is grounded in her cultural identity and a deep commitment to Indigenous economic empowerment.

“What an honour and privilege to be awarded the 2025 Indigenous Accountant of the Year award,” Jolene said.  “Thank you to everyone who supported and believed in me along the way, it’s definitely been a journey to get here.  It's a team effort really.”

Jolene’s leadership extends beyond her practice. She serves on the CA ANZ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander member panel, where she advocates for Indigenous students and emerging Chartered Accountants. She spoke at the National Indigenous Business School on Yugambeh Country (Gold Coast) sharing her journey to becoming a CA and inspiring the next generation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander accountants. “Going through the CA Program and becoming a Chartered Accountant were stepping stones to eventually opening my own firm,” Jolene emphasised.  “Helping small businesses and not-for-profit organisations to thrive is so rewarding.  I’d love more Indigenous students to consider accounting as a career of endless possibilities and the opportunity to make a positive impact in their communities.”

Jolene is also a graduate of the AICD Company Directors Course and the Indigenous Business Leadership program at the University of Melbourne.  She serves on the board of the Brisbane Indigenous Media Association (BIMA), and her firm is proudly Supply Nation certified - reflecting her commitment to growing the Indigenous economy.

Jolene was joined at the ceremony by fellow CA ANZ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander panel members — Chair Josh Duke FCA, a Dunghutti man, and Vice-Chair Ben Eisikovich CA, Kamilaroi — who celebrated her achievement. “We couldn’t possibly be prouder of Jolene,” said Josh Duke.  “It was such a privilege to be there on the night.” 

CA ANZ also congratulates all Chartered Accountants recognised as winners and finalists at the 2025 Australian Accounting Awards, in individual categories and as part of the group categories. The individual category-winning members are:

• Young Accountant of the Year - Ramy Singh CA
• Superannuation Auditor of the Year - Benjamin Lacey CA
• Public Accountant of the Year - Teddy Kosasih CA
• Partner of the Year - Dinesh Aggarwal CA
• New Partner of the Year - Peter Xi CA
• Mentor of the Year - Sam Naragala CA (CA ANZ Tasmanian Councillor)
• Indigenous Accountant of the Year - Jolene Elliott CA
• Corporate Accountants of the Year - Zoe Keck CA

These achievements highlight the difference Chartered Accountants make every day in the communities where they live and work.

To all CA ANZ members recognised: you are Difference Makers, and we celebrate your success.