When Yen Ching Leong arrived in Australia in July 2016, she didn’t plan to stay. With a successful career back home and aspirations to become a CFO, she enrolled in a Master of Finance program to elevate her professional standing. But life had other plans, and today, Yen is the proud Partner at Tax Store Brisbane, helping small businesses thrive while building a legacy of her own.

A New Beginning in Australia

Yen’s first role in Australia was as a finance officer/accountant. However, the experience came with unexpected challenges. “I worked part-time for a firm that had lost its license,” she recalls. “It took me 1.5 years to realise the situation.” That moment sparked a turning point in her career.

In 2018, Yen decided to take control of her future. “The industry here wasn’t what I expected,” she says. “So, I started looking into franchises. I didn’t have the proper license yet, but I knew I wanted to build something of my own."

Why Tax Store?

Among the options she explored Tax Store stood out. “The pricing was a little higher than some of the others, but there was flexibility in the office fit-out and so much marketing support,” Yen explains. “That meant I didn’t need to spend much upfront to get started.”

Over the next three years, she completed a Master of Accounting and earned her Tax Agent license, laying the foundation for building her own practice.

Challenges and Growth

Starting a business wasn’t easy. “Finding clients and learning the trade was tough,” Yen admits. “I wasn’t fully knowledgeable yet, so I leaned on Tax Store’s advice and experience.”

She also noticed a cultural peculiarity about the Australian workforce. “I led teams in Malaysia and Singapore, but in Australia, motivating people is different. It’s harder to inspire passion for the work.”

The Tax Store Advantage

Today, Yen enjoys the autonomy of running her own business while benefiting from the support of the Tax Store network. “I work independently, but I follow the franchisor’s policies. It feels like my own business.”

She credits the team—Gwen, Arlene, Jamal, Nurudeen, and Giovanni—for their responsiveness and expertise. “They’re always there when I need help. That support makes a big difference.”

Advice for Future Partners

Yen encourages prospective franchisees to look beyond the brand and the cost. “It’s about the people. There are so many experienced Tax Store partners who are willing to help. That’s what makes the network so strong.”

Supporting SMEs with Heart

Yen’s approach to client service is personal and proactive. “We communicate every three months and meet annually to review business progress,” she says. “But clients can reach me directly, anytime, and I respond within 24 to 48 hours.”

For Yen, it’s not just about tax, it’s about helping small businesses grow. “It’s not about the money. It’s about supporting the little guys.”

One standout success? An NDIS client who grew from zero to over $1 million in gross income under Yen’s guidance.

Yen’s story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of community. From international student to franchise partner, she’s built a business that reflects her values, community spirit and drive for success, while helping others achieve theirs