About Prosperity Associates
Stephen Cole, principal and founder of Prosperity Associates, started as a junior Accountant at KPMG Peat Marwick in the 1980s. Since then he has accrued experience in a variety of fields, and owned and invested in more than a dozen businesses in a variety of industries.
He understands business, because he is also in business - not just Accounting.
He understands investing, not just because he is an investor, but is also a Stockbroker and Financial Planner.
He understands Super not just as a tax agent, but is an ASIC licensed SMSF auditor.
He understands tax not just as a longstanding tax agent, but as one who assists clients with high quality, legal tax planning before they need it, not afterwards when it’s too late.
Stephen is ably supported by a team of Accounting Professionals with specialties in SME, Estates, Superannuation and Accounting.
Stephen John Douglas Cole - Principal
Testimonials
“Over the years I’ve used many professionals in many different spheres, some good, some not so good. Then there are a handful that exceed my expectations, not just in terms of ability but in terms of their insight, decency, compassion and their ability to encourage good. Stephen Cole is one such person. I have only the highest regard for this gentleman who has been a driving force behind my own benevolence. The good that Stephen actively encouraged, and continues to encourage, me to do has changed lives and the positive ramifications will be felt well into the future. Stephen is in a class of his own and I admire him greatly. He is one of the few people I can genuinely say restored my faith in human nature.”
— Mark, client since 2019
“We approached Stephen 10 years ago for advice and guidance in managing our complex business and personal structures. It was the best thing we ever did. His strategic thinking, business analytics, business planning and entity structure advice have proven invaluable in the formation and excellent performance of our Family Trust; Self-managed super fund; Business holdings; Commercial real estate investments; and Estate planning.
Stephen’s always available to give proactive advice on the taxation and structural implications of our various entities. This has allowed us to regularly revise and rebalance them so as to maximise overall performance. He also has an extremely sound knowledge of the stock market.
We’ve found Stephen and his team friendly and genuinely interested in our well-being not just our financial situation. An unusual and most welcome experience. We highly recommend them.”
— Chris and Tom, clients since 2011
“I’ve worked with Stephen Cole as an Accountant since 1997. He has been a great sounding board for my business ideas, and is very responsive to all my tax and consulting needs. He has always achieved great results for me tax wise and I can thoroughly recommend him to anyone seeking quality and great service. Over 20 years, I’ve had 9 acquisitions and all of the due diligence was done by Stephen, and all of the acquisitions were successful. The mix between companies, super, trusts and private investments has worked for me brilliantly, not only on a day to day operation but also my retirement funds are taken care off for a very long time to come.”
— Gerhard, client since 1997
“We first came to Stephen Cole on the recommendation of a colleague who had complicated accounting requirements, and knew that that was who we needed, on the back of being frustrated at the mismanagement by our previous accountant.
For over 10 years Stephen Cole has taken over our accounting, streamlined and reorganised us so that our procedures are now manageable and understandable. He has taken a huge load off our shoulders and minds with his professional, forensic and detailed approach to accounting and investing.
Always available to speak to personally, he is backed up by a solid team that crosses all aspects of accounting.”
— Katie, client since 2003
“Stephen Cole has been looking after my personal and business taxation and finances for nearly 30 years. His professionalism, service, and dedication to me as a client, has always been to the highest standard.
Setting up certain structures within the company to minimise taxation or setting up SMSF as well as wealth management advice for me and my family. Looking after all my financial and accounting needs, made it easier for me to concentrate on growing the business. I feel always welcome and appreciated, and he continually has the answers to my questions.
We sleep well at night knowing all our financial decisions and analysis are backed by his professional prowess and commitment.
I highly recommend Stephen and his Team.
I look forward to another 30 years with Stephen as my Accountant.”
— Peter, client since 1997