Moore's Journey: A Quarter-Century of Growth and Resilience in South Australia
April 19, 2025, 4:55 am
In the heart of South Australia, a small accounting firm has blossomed into a formidable player in the financial landscape. Moore, originally known as Hayes Knight, opened its doors in Adelaide on April 1, 2000. The firm was born amidst the chaos of a new tax system—the Goods and Services Tax (GST)—which would redefine the accounting industry. This was no mere coincidence; it was a catalyst for change.
From its humble beginnings, Moore has grown into a powerhouse, employing over 100 staff across its offices in Adelaide and Darwin. The firm’s success story is a testament to adaptability and foresight. Grant Miles and Tim Sargent, the architects of this venture, recognized early on that the arrival of the GST was not just a challenge but an opportunity. They pivoted, offering clients the tools and training needed to navigate this new terrain. The shift from annual to more frequent reporting demanded innovation. Manual accounting was quickly becoming obsolete.
The firm embraced technology, allowing for real-time data analysis. This transformation was not just about numbers; it was about empowering clients. Monthly meetings became a norm, where live data informed decisions. Moore was not just crunching numbers; it was crafting strategies.
As the years rolled on, Moore expanded its horizons. The firm welcomed new directors and associate directors, enhancing its service offerings. However, the landscape was shifting. In 2016, a wave of consolidation swept through the Australian accounting sector. Moore faced a critical juncture. The firm’s South Australian branch experienced significant upheaval, with key divisions leaving for rival firms. Yet, from the ashes of this turmoil, a new alliance emerged. Moore Stephens secured a merger with Hayes Knight’s practices, marking a pivotal moment in its history.
This merger was not merely a survival tactic; it was a strategic move to better serve clients. The firm sought to align with a network that could match the ambitions of its growing clientele. The focus shifted from compliance to partnership. Moore aimed to be a guide on its clients’ journeys, not just a service provider.
In mid-2020, as the world grappled with the COVID-19 pandemic, Moore rebranded to Moore Australia. This was a bold step during a tumultuous time. The firm’s leadership made crucial decisions to protect its people and clients. They suspended director dividends and froze price increases, ensuring that no employee faced job loss or pay cuts. This commitment to its workforce was a lifeline during a crisis that threatened many businesses.
Moore’s resilience paid off. Not a single client fell into administration during the pandemic. This achievement stands as a badge of honor for the firm. Today, Moore Australia is part of a global network generating over $5 billion in revenue. While it sits just inside the top twenty accounting firms in Australia, its growth trajectory is promising. The firm reported a revenue of over $100 million, with South Australia and the Northern Territory contributing significantly.
The future looks bright for Moore. The firm is banking on a blend of culture, collaboration, and technological innovation to navigate the next wave of disruption. The accounting landscape has evolved dramatically over the past 25 years. Technology is a key player, but it’s not the only story. The shift to live financial data has transformed client education. Understanding numbers is one thing; grasping their implications for decision-making is another.
Moore’s connection to the broader Moore family is vital. It fosters continuous learning and growth. The firm has never viewed itself as just accountants. From the outset, it aimed to build a network of connections—with clients, employees, and communities. This philosophy has been the bedrock of its success.
As Moore celebrates its 25th anniversary, it reflects on a journey marked by challenges and triumphs. The firm has weathered storms, adapted to change, and emerged stronger. Its story is one of resilience, innovation, and a commitment to meaningful relationships. In a world where numbers often dominate, Moore has carved out a niche as a trusted partner in growth.
The next chapter for Moore is unwritten. With the rise of AI and automation, the firm is poised to embrace new technologies. Yet, its core values remain unchanged. Genuine relationships and meaningful insights will continue to drive its mission. As Moore looks to the future, it does so with confidence, ready to tackle whatever challenges lie ahead. The journey is far from over; it’s just beginning.
From its humble beginnings, Moore has grown into a powerhouse, employing over 100 staff across its offices in Adelaide and Darwin. The firm’s success story is a testament to adaptability and foresight. Grant Miles and Tim Sargent, the architects of this venture, recognized early on that the arrival of the GST was not just a challenge but an opportunity. They pivoted, offering clients the tools and training needed to navigate this new terrain. The shift from annual to more frequent reporting demanded innovation. Manual accounting was quickly becoming obsolete.
The firm embraced technology, allowing for real-time data analysis. This transformation was not just about numbers; it was about empowering clients. Monthly meetings became a norm, where live data informed decisions. Moore was not just crunching numbers; it was crafting strategies.
As the years rolled on, Moore expanded its horizons. The firm welcomed new directors and associate directors, enhancing its service offerings. However, the landscape was shifting. In 2016, a wave of consolidation swept through the Australian accounting sector. Moore faced a critical juncture. The firm’s South Australian branch experienced significant upheaval, with key divisions leaving for rival firms. Yet, from the ashes of this turmoil, a new alliance emerged. Moore Stephens secured a merger with Hayes Knight’s practices, marking a pivotal moment in its history.
This merger was not merely a survival tactic; it was a strategic move to better serve clients. The firm sought to align with a network that could match the ambitions of its growing clientele. The focus shifted from compliance to partnership. Moore aimed to be a guide on its clients’ journeys, not just a service provider.
In mid-2020, as the world grappled with the COVID-19 pandemic, Moore rebranded to Moore Australia. This was a bold step during a tumultuous time. The firm’s leadership made crucial decisions to protect its people and clients. They suspended director dividends and froze price increases, ensuring that no employee faced job loss or pay cuts. This commitment to its workforce was a lifeline during a crisis that threatened many businesses.
Moore’s resilience paid off. Not a single client fell into administration during the pandemic. This achievement stands as a badge of honor for the firm. Today, Moore Australia is part of a global network generating over $5 billion in revenue. While it sits just inside the top twenty accounting firms in Australia, its growth trajectory is promising. The firm reported a revenue of over $100 million, with South Australia and the Northern Territory contributing significantly.
The future looks bright for Moore. The firm is banking on a blend of culture, collaboration, and technological innovation to navigate the next wave of disruption. The accounting landscape has evolved dramatically over the past 25 years. Technology is a key player, but it’s not the only story. The shift to live financial data has transformed client education. Understanding numbers is one thing; grasping their implications for decision-making is another.
Moore’s connection to the broader Moore family is vital. It fosters continuous learning and growth. The firm has never viewed itself as just accountants. From the outset, it aimed to build a network of connections—with clients, employees, and communities. This philosophy has been the bedrock of its success.
As Moore celebrates its 25th anniversary, it reflects on a journey marked by challenges and triumphs. The firm has weathered storms, adapted to change, and emerged stronger. Its story is one of resilience, innovation, and a commitment to meaningful relationships. In a world where numbers often dominate, Moore has carved out a niche as a trusted partner in growth.
The next chapter for Moore is unwritten. With the rise of AI and automation, the firm is poised to embrace new technologies. Yet, its core values remain unchanged. Genuine relationships and meaningful insights will continue to drive its mission. As Moore looks to the future, it does so with confidence, ready to tackle whatever challenges lie ahead. The journey is far from over; it’s just beginning.