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Build a better relationship with your helper

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Many expats in Singapore hire helpers to assist with household chores or to take care of their children. While having a helper can be beneficial for your family, it is important to foster a positive working relationship with your helper to ensure that she is treated with respect and dignity, and to keep a happy and healthy household environment.

Where Employers Struggle

At White Glove, we often receive phone calls from employers when the relationship is beyond repair and the family is looking for a new helper. We hear both sides of the story, from the employers and the helpers, and understand the two points of view. There are many reasons these relationships might fall apart, but one common theme we hear is miscommunication. Remember, she is joining your family, but she is also your employee. The challenge is to have a good rapport with her, yet still maintain an employer/employee relationship.

Tips to Foster a Positive Relationship

  1. Set clear expectations: It is important to set clear expectations from the beginning, including job responsibilities, work hours, days off, and salary. Before hiring your helper, have a frank discussion about your needs and expectations so she is not caught off guard. You should disclose any pet care or car washing needs up front, and you might want to provide a list of chores to make things clear.
  2. Communicate effectively: Communication is key to any relationship, including the one with your domestic worker. Make sure that you communicate clearly and effectively, and that you listen to her concerns and/or feedback. If there are any issues, try to address them in a respectful and constructive manner. Never yell at your helper. Yelling creates a stressful environment and doesn’t accomplish your goal of having a healthy relationship. If you get angry, step away and return to discuss when you have had time to process your thoughts.
  3. Provide a comfortable living environment: Your helper will be living in your home, so it is important to provide a comfortable living environment. Make sure she has her own space, access to basic amenities like a fan or air-conditioning, and that she is able to maintain her privacy.
  4. Consider a food allowance. While a lot of helpers are happy to eat what you eat, often she would rather eat food from her home country and to prepare her own meals. A food allowance will give her the choice to eat what she wants and will make her happier.
  5. Respect her culture and beliefs: Your domestic worker may come from a different culture or have different beliefs than you. It is important to be open-minded and willing to learn about her background. This may include giving her time to pray during the day, or letting her listen to church music while she works.
  6. Show appreciation: Your domestic worker works hard to take care of your home and family. Show your appreciation by thanking her for her hard work, providing her with time off, or giving her a bonus or gift on special occasions.

Fostering a positive working relationship with your migrant domestic worker is essential to ensure that she is treated with respect and dignity. By following these tips, you can create a positive and productive working relationship with your helper.

White Glove is an award-winning agency owned by expat Jennifer Yarbrough. Looking for a helper or need advice? Contact us today at [email protected], or give us a call or WhatsApp at 8893 4993.

 

 

A smashing success for ANZA Soccer!

The bright sunshine at ANZA Soccer’s Finals Day on 22 April 2023 seemed appropriate. Afterall, this was the season we were finally able to resume regular sessions, run meaningful age-group leagues, and hold ANZA Cup tournaments again after the long, difficult years of pandemic restrictions. Throughout the season, players, parents, organisers, and coaches had a special appreciation for the simple pleasures of kicking a ball with friends, hugging teammates after a goal, and sitting together as coaches summarised the game and congratulated Players of the Match. With the resumption of ANZA Soccer’s traditional Awards Ceremonies and lots of special activities, our “carnival” Finals Day capped off a season to remember.

Buzzing with energy

Families arriving at The Cage, Turf City were greeted by enthusiastic cheering from larger-than-usual crowds. Each session started promptly, with some age groups holding fun parent–kid games while others had the excitement of league finals or ANZA Cup championship games. With parent-run and sponsor-provided fun activities and freebies in other spots around the venue, the sports park was buzzing with energy. During the awards ceremonies, glittering medals and trophies, along with sweet treats, cold drinks, and lots of high-fives, gave everyone mementos and memories to treasure.

Parents of our smallest players marvelled at their improvement, with many who could barely kick back in August now passing, shooting, and even (sometimes) maintaining positions. For players in the older age groups, league standings and ANZA Cup competitions offered the chance to put their skills to the test. Close results in many age groups reflected the hard work of the Age Group Coordinators (AGCs), who focus on keeping teams balanced as players come and go. Excited spectators encouraged players to give their all despite the heat, and many games came down to the last few minutes, or even penalty shootouts. Games ended with handshakes, team cheers, and end-of-season congratulations among parents and players who had developed friendships within and between teams.

After the final whistle blew, each age group gathered for their Awards Ceremony. AGC’s thanked all those who made the season possible, particularly the volunteer coaches, team parents, and committee members without whom ANZA Soccer could not exist. Each team then had its moment in the spotlight, with coaches handing out medals, trophies, and special awards to players who showed exceptional progress or leadership. One team per age group was also awarded the Foreman Fair Play Award, named after one of our founders and determined through team votes.

“With parent-run and sponsor-provided fun activities, the park was buzzing with energy”

Positive results

We commend all ANZA Soccer players and adults who contribute to our programme’s strong reputation for building character as well as soccer skills in our boys and girls. Whether you stuck with us through the pandemic – masks, distancing, entry lanes and all – or joined us this season, we appreciate your support and invite you to register for the 2023-24 season. As our Finals Day sessions finished with sincere congratulations between players, parents, and coaches, we saw once again the positive results of ANZA Soccer’s focus on football, friendship, fair play, and community at all levels.

Our 2022-23 soccer year ended with celebrations for all, not least for ANZA Soccer itself, which celebrated a successful 47th season. Players, parents, and volunteers are to be congratulated for their commitment to the programme week in and week out over the eight months. We also recognise our grounds staff and weekday coaching staff, led by Head Coach Yakob, who work tirelessly each practice and game day to keep things going smoothly for all involved. We sincerely thank our sponsors, whose support makes ANZA soccer available and affordable for a wide range of families. Here’s to another great season starting in August!

Registration for the 2023–24 soccer season is now open, so sign up quickly to reserve your player’s spot! See anza.org.sg for details.

Congratulations ANZA! Birthday messages from our community

His Excellency Mr Allaster Cox, Australia’s High Commissioner to Singapore

75 years is a huge achievement!

“ANZA is a home away from home. It’s how Aussies and Kiwis in Singapore stay connected with each other and our community – from Nippers to AFL, or the ANZA Ball to Melbourne Cup Race Day. Seventy-five years is a huge achievement. Having recently arrived in Singapore, I have a particular appreciation for the work ANZA does to connect Aussies around the island. Congratulations to the ANZA team for your great work!”

 

New Zealand High Commissioner H.E Gabrielle Rush

ANZA has provided a point of connection for Kiwis here

“On behalf of the New Zealand High Commission in Singapore, it’s my great pleasure to congratulate ANZA as it marks its 75th anniversary. For 75 years ANZA has provided a point of connection for Kiwis here. It has enriched our lives through the cultural, sporting, voluntary and wider events and activities ANZA coordinates. Aotearoa New Zealand’s High Commission values greatly its partnership with ANZA and looks forward to working alongside the Executive Committee and wider membership as we look towards the next 75 years!”

 

Karrie Dietz, Head of School, Australian International School

Invaluable support & friendship

“This year is a double celebration as Australian International School (AIS) marks its 30th anniversary alongside the 75th anniversary of ANZA. As we commemorate these significant milestones, we reflect on the shared values that bind us together – respect, opportunity and achievement. We are deeply grateful for the invaluable support and friendship that ANZA has extended to our school, providing students with opportunities to learn, grow and thrive.”

 

Jamie Burgmann, Partner at Select Investors

Here’s to another successful 75 years ahead!

“From providing social and recreational activities to promoting cultural exchange and community service, ANZA has been an integral part of expat life in Singapore for an astounding 75 years. What I love most about ANZA is its strong culture of giving back. Part of my role as a financial advisor is to partner with individuals and families to grow and protect wealth over the long-term. ANZA is a great role model where the members are always put first and why it has been so successful over the past seven decades. Happy birthday from all of us at Select Investors.”

 

Martin Zheng, Co-founder and Mortgage Broker, Odin Mortgage

Happy BirthdayANZA, stay young!

“The support of ANZA has been instrumental in helping Odin Mortgage to grow and mature in Singapore. Together we have assisted countless Aussie families with their mortgage and taxation matters and we will continue to support the Aussie community for years to come. We would like to thank ANZA for their invaluable contributions, professionalism, dedication, and hard work.”

 

Professor Chris Rudd OBE, Deputy Vice Chancellor and Head of Campus, Singapore James Cook University

We are honoured to work alongside ANZA

“Over the years, ANZA has been a pillar of the expat community, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among its members. JCU has been honoured to work alongside ANZA on various community initiatives, including the ANZA Ball, and have witnessed first-hand the association’s unwavering commitment to enriching the lives of people in Singapore and beyond. We look forward to continuing this partnership and supporting ANZA as it continues to bring people together, explore new cultures, and make a positive impact in their communities.”

 

Alexis Livanes, Partner, Eight Wealth International

Congratulations ANZA on this huge milestone!

“Arriving in Singapore from Sydney to work for Eight Wealth International a year before Covid, ANZA has been an incredible source of connection and purpose for my family. Here’s to helping individuals and families with their journey in Singapore! My hope for ANZA is that it continues to grow and connect different communities together, and I look forward to building many more lifelong friendships through ANZA in the years to come.”

 

Valesha Soon, Partnerships & Events Manager, Artworks

Never stop doing what you do

“What a journey it has been! Seventy-five years is a long time and it has been a huge pleasure to be part of and to witness the growth of ANZA. Despite the pandemic, nothing has stopped your association from picking itself right back up and hosting the best events we’ve been so happy to sponsor. We wish you the biggest success in all that ANZA does – never stop what you do! Happy birthday!”

 

Alice Day, Marketing Manager, International Medical Clinic

Take pride in all you have accomplished

“Over the years, International Medical Clinic (IMC) has worked closely with ANZA to help support the expatriate community in Singapore, and we are grateful for the partnership we have developed. Your dedication to providing a family-like support network for those living away from home is truly commendable, and we are proud to be associated with an organisation that values the wellbeing of so many families. As you reflect on the past 75 years, may you take pride in all you have accomplished and look forward to a bright future, filled with continued growth and success. We wish you all the best and look forward to many more years of partnership and collaboration.”

 

Vicky Fagan, Marketing Manager, Osler Health

Please continue to bring people together

“We chose to support ANZA as it offers so many different opportunities to reach the masses. As a healthcare provider, we know the importance of having a sense of community and how feeling ‘connected’ is known to improve your overall sense of happiness. Happy 75th anniversary! Please continue to bring people together as you do.”

 

 

Jason Hoppner, Director of Marketing & Admissions – Dulwich College (Singapore)

You’ve touched countless hearts

“Happy 75th anniversary, ANZA! Your ongoing commitment to inclusivity and friendship has touched countless hearts and created memorable moments. Here’s to many more amazing years ahead! As ANZA embarks on the next 75 years, we hope to see even more growth, a thriving diverse community, and an even closer partnership with Dulwich College (Singapore) – creating opportunities and making a difference, hand in hand.”

 

Arvin Mansukhani, General Manager, CM Relocation Singapore

Keep up the good work!

“Seventy-five years speaks volumes about the continued success of ANZA and what it stands for. Having worked with you for a few years, I have observed how much dedication the team puts in to make the events and activities fun-filled and engaging for all. Keep up the good work guys!”

 

 

Dr Allan Weston, Head of School, Canadian International School

I hope that your success continues to flourish

“Congratulations to ANZA on your historic 75th birthday. We partner with ANZA because of your ethos; much like the Canadian International School, you bring people together through your commitment to diversity and community. As a fellow Australian, I wholeheartedly support your association’s sporting pursuits and celebrations. I hope that your success and membership continues to flourish in the next 75 years.”

 

Paddy Kirwan, Managing Director, Head of MUFG Investor Services APAC

You are one of the most respected associations

“On behalf of all of us at MUFG Investor Services, I want to wish you a very happy 75th birthday! How much you have accomplished in Singapore sports for children over the past seven and a half decades is truly remarkable. Your association has done an incredible job in making ANZA one of the most respected and admired non-profit sports organisations in the region. Your commitment to providing opportunities for children to learn new skills, make new friends, and experience the joy of sports is truly invaluable. Here’s to another 75 years of fun, games, and great memories!”

 

David Jones, General Manager, Singapore Cricket Club

May ANZA’s legacy of kindness, diversity and friendship continue

“The Singapore Cricket Club (SCC) is a proud partner of ANZA, working together to connect people and build close-knit communities, particularly through sports. The communal ties forged and strengthened between your members through events and activities is testimony to ANZA’s clout on the island. On ANZA’s 75th anniversary, we celebrate all the great things you have accomplished. May ANZA’s legacy of kindness, diversity and friendship continue for many more decades.”

Jocelyn Ng, National Key Account Manager in Treasury Wine Estates

You have come so far

“Happy 75th anniversary! We are very proud of how the association has developed and come so far with many exciting news and activities. We look forward to continuing our long-term partnership in the future.”

 

 

 

Yujun Lin, CEO of Interactive Brokers Singapore

Keep building strong ties with the local community

“We are so proud to be associated with ANZA. We fully support the association’s commitment to youth sports and building a deeply connected community of expatriates and locals in Singapore. Interactive Brokers hopes that ANZA will stay true to its mission of creating a home-away-from-home environment for Australian and New Zealand expats here, and that you keep building strong ties with the local community while attracting fantastic leadership and volunteers. We wish you continued success and growth on this monumentous occasion.”

Is lifestyle medicine the future of good health?

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Medical science has made huge advances in treating infectious diseases in the past century. Antibiotics, vaccines and access to clean drinking water mean that they pose much less risk.

The great challenge to doctors in the 21st century comes from chronic diseases: diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, cancer, autoimmune and mental health conditions. Lifestyle choices play a role in all of these conditions, and lifestyle medicine seeks to address these.

A different approach

Current healthcare approaches do not adequately address chronic diseases. Most people have their condition detected at an advanced stage, and doctors offer expensive medicines and interventions to deal mainly with the complications that arise. But what if we could intervene earlier to prevent or even reverse the disease process? Lifestyle medicine aims to achieve this by focusing on six pillars:

  • Nutritional health
  • Mental wellbeing/managing stress
  • Social connections/relationships
  • Exercise
  • Minimising harmful substances (like alcohol or smoking)
  • Sleep

It might sound obvious, but with an evidence-informed, scientific approach, these pillars represent powerful tools in our fight against disease. They are much more potent at prolonging lifespan and healthspan (proportion of your life lived without disease/impairment) than any drugs currently available.

Changing relationship

For this approach to be effective, a doctor needs to move away from their traditional role as an expert who simply imparts information.Years of experience has shown us that simple advice such as “exercise more” or “eat less” is not effective. A lifestyle medicine doctor plays the role of a coach, working in collaboration with their patient to determine their values, goals, motivations, and harnessing these to enable lasting behavioural changes. Does this mean abandoning treatments like drugs and surgery? Definitely not!

Pharmaceuticals still play a key role. Lifestyle medicine recognises this, but aims to maximise optimisation of the ‘six pillars’ alongside other management strategies.
We hope that this completely removes the need for medication for most people, but this may not always be the case. Lifestyle interventions may prevent you from ever getting cancer for example, but if you were unlucky enough to have the disease, we’d want to use all tools available (drugs, surgery and lifestyle changes) in your treatment.

The lifestyle medicine approach involves a multi-disciplinary team of allied health professionals and at Osler we work with a trusted network of nutritionists, trainers, psychologists and coaches to get the best results. For more information, contact us at the website below or visit us in person to learn how we can help you to take control of your wellbeing.

Dr Neil Forrest is a British trained GP family doctor based at Osler Health Star Vista (off Holland Rd).

 

 

For more information
Visit our website or make an appointment to learn how we can help you to take control of your own health and wellbeing. osler-health.com

New Zealand High Commission: Seeing stars


Māori Business Delegation

In May, New Zealand High Commission hosted a Māori business delegation who were in town to learn more about Singapore’s food and beverage sector. The delegation kicked off their study tour with a mihi whakatau (informal Māori welcome) hosted by our team at the High Commission which included among other things, traditional waiata (Māori songs) and bonding over some delicious kai (food). Other highlights included meetings with Singapore Food Agency, Shiok Meats, Food Plant, and wrapped up with a networking event at the Official Residence.

Marking Matariki

Matariki is the Māori name for the cluster of stars that rises in midwinter and for many Māori, its arrival heralds the start of the New Year. The return of the constellation is commemorated by Te Rā Aro ki Matariki 2023, which happens on Friday, 14 July this year. For New Zealanders, Matariki is a time where people, whānau (family) and communities gather together to remember the year that has passed, to celebrate the present, and to plan for the next year. To learn more about Matariki visit matariki.com

Meet our new team member, Thaddaeus Cobb

“I’ve recently joined the New Zealand High Commission on a six-month relief assignment as Second Secretary. I’ve worked at the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade for over four years, mainly in the trade and economic space, which will be the focus of my work here in Singapore.
In my spare time I enjoy podcasts, music, staying active, and watching lot of cricket! Since arriving on the island in May, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed exploring Singapore, particularly the hawker markets! I look forward to meeting and connecting with members of ANZA during my time here.”

Hotspots: New weekend freeflow package at Coastes

While Singapore isn’t known for its beaches, there are a few coastal spots that can make you feel like you’ve truly escaped urbanisation and landed in a little sandy paradise of your own. Coastes, on Siloso beach on Sentosa is one such place. A much-loved stalwart of the island’s shoreline eatery scene, it’s been keeping sun-loving punters generously fed and watered since the early 00s and is famous for its prime position, casual breezy vibe, shabby seaside chic and plentiful menu.

Good news: none of this has changed! But not ones to rest on their laurels, Coastes has just reinvented its dining experience with its weekend bottomless wines and bubbly package ($65++) alongside some updated breakfast and all-day dishes from its menu for all the family.

New line up

We start by perching ourselves at one of the benches on the decking overlooking the sunloungers – an excellent placement for people-watching as well as gazing into the tranquil waters ahead. If you’re feeling breakfasty, Coastes’ new Ham & Cheese Croissant ($18++) comes freshly baked from the oven oozing rich Gruyére cheese; the Spinach & Feta Filo ($18++) comprises flaky filo dough with a punchy filling; and the Avocado & Poached Egg Muffins with Goat Cheese (18++) are a got-to if you’re continuing a party from the night before.

Those with more of hearty meal craving might want to expand the waistband of their boardies thanks to the new line up of pastas, risottos, burgers, and more. There’s Cheek Ragu Risotto ($28++), Fettucine Carbonara ($25), and Crispy Fried Cod Burger ($26++) for those clever enough to know they need something filling to assist them with free-flow drinks. We dived into the new BBQ Pulled Pork Burger ($24++) which was deliciously tasty with jalapeno slaw, chipotle mayo, cheddar cheese and egg; and a refreshing Smoked Duck Salad ($22) with Grana Padano cheese shavings and balsamic vinegar. New vegetarian dishes include Grilled Vegetable Antipasti ($22++), a Mediterranean-style platter of caramelised zucchini, eggplant, crostini, kalamata olives, roasted garlic and tomato jam; Spaghetti Arrabbiata ($22++); and Grilled Eggplant Ciabatta ($24++) with goat cheese and porcini truffle mayonnaise.

Poached prawns

If you’re a fan of seafood, here’s where Coastes’ new entries really shine. The Beetroot Scallops ($24++), a trio of chilled pan-seared Japanese scallops soaked in beetroot jus on zucchini and topped with soy caviar was not only pretty, but slightly sweet and earthy to taste and surprisingly filling. The new Poached Prawns with Gazpacho ($22++) went straight in at number one with its chunky prawns and deep tomato flavours complete with body, bite and splashes of sour cream sauce – the ultimate summer soup.

The new dessert on Coastes’ weekend and all-day menu is the Banana & Choco Filo ($14), a Greek-style triangle of oozy caramelised banana and chocolate served with vanilla ice-cream and a smattering of walnuts. The Pineapple & Blueberry Crumble with Vanilla Ice-Cream ($14) and a Sinfully Good Chocolate Fudge Brownie ($14) are also still available for the win. More free fizz you say? Oh – go on then!

VERDICT: At $65++ for free-flow wines & bubbly every weekend from 12pm – 3pm, Coastes’ package is one of the most affordable on the island. Add food and you’ve still got a banging dining deal which is topped off with tropical seafront energy. Take your swimmers and make a day of it.

50 Siloso Beach Walk Sentosa. coastes.com

Māori culture: Explained, respected, treasured

Where are you from and how long have you been an expat in Singapore?
I was born in Whakatāne, a small coastal town in the sunny Eastern Bay of Plenty. I’ve been living in Singapore for 10 years, relocating after two years in Shenzhen, China. My wife Kristin is from New York and I have three daughters and six grandchildren all living in Aotearoa.

As a born and bred Māori, please give us an insight into your culture …
Māori culture is based on whanaungatanga (family connection) which is not too different from many other cultures. My father is from a whānau (family) of 20 and my mother from a family of eight. Māori culture is also about sharing experiences and having a sense of belonging to a tribe or group with a common belief, whether it be family values or working and playing together with a shared kaupapa (principles and values).

So family is everything?
Yes. Being able to identify your tribal affiliation through the waka (canoe) our tupuna (ancestors) journeyed on to Aotearoa, the maunga (mountain) that watches over your whenua (land), and your awa (river), the life force of your existence. A famous Māori whakatauki (proverb) sums this up perfectly: “He aha te mea nui o te Ao, he tāngata, he tāngata, he tāngata” which translates as “What is the most important thing in the world, it is people, it is people, it is people”. Another is, “He whânau kotahi tātou”, “We are one family”.

How do you show respect in Māori culture?
Respect is about māramatanga (understanding), mātauranga (knowledge), and manaakitanga (kindness and generosity). With evolution, these values have slowly changed. Around 10 years ago the use of Te Reo (the language) started to decline. All New Zealanders didn’t want this to happen as it is very much part of our heritage and identity. Now the use of Te Reo is everywhere and embraced by everyone.

 

Elders are the ‘messengers’ of our culture, making sure it is passed through generations

What does it mean to be a Māori elder?
The elders or kaumātua are the upholders or the ‘messengers’ of our culture, making sure it is passed through generations so it’s not lost. They’re the figureheads of the whānau and each has a Rangatira (Chief) – this is the eldest born male in that particular whānau and his tama mataamua (first born son) inherits that role through the generations.

As an elder, what can you do that others cannot?
During an official whānau hui (family gathering), only that person can speak on behalf of their whānau if they are present. In almost every community of Kiwis living abroad, there will always be someone or a small group that will maintain our cultural connection to Aotearoa. Here in Singapore, I don’t consider myself kaumātua, I just happen to be the oldest in our group. I am honored and privileged to be in the role of leading our cultural awareness in everything we do here.

Can women be elders too?
Kuia (females) are considered kaumātua as well. They are the heartbeat of our culture: the leaders of the waiata (songs) and kapa haka (action songs); harakeke (flax weaving); and creators of the beautiful korowai (maori cloak). They are also the best cooks in the world!

You are performing haka at ANZA’s GLITTERBALL. Please talk us through this …
Haka was introduced to Aotearoa by Māori as an expression of passion and identity. It also has tribal and territorial significance and early Māori used it as a challenge to visiting tribes. It has since evolved into a ceremonial custom used in official events. Many NZ groups use haka as a common identity telling a story about their roots and who they are. Our Kiwi Waka Ama club in Singapore has its own haka which tells the story about our waka journey. This is what we will perform at the ANZA Ball.

Can anyone perform haka?
Yes, however there are strict protocols around how to do it. If it’s not done correctly, you can offend people. You can’t laugh or joke around, it is to be taken seriously, upholding the mana (spiritual status) of its origin. We call it a taonga (a treasured gift) from our tupuna. Every haka is different. Not just the All Blacks, the NZ Rugby League team, the NZ Māori Rugby Team, our Armed Services and even Secondary schools have their own.

How easy is it to keep Māori traditions alive in Singapore?
There are so many Kiwis living overseas that our culture is always present. You just need to create a platform to allow people to express it and give them the opportunity to be reminded of where we are from. For example, before I go paddling with our Kiwi Waka Ama paddle club, we say a karakia (prayer) asking for protection while we are out on the moana. Once you have a connection you never lose it. If anything, it’s stronger because you live away from home.

What would surprise readers most about Māori culture?
There are no surprises because the traditions have been around for generations. I feel very fortunate because almost everywhere I go, my tā moko (traditional tattoo), the colour of my skin and my accent (in that order) reveal that I am Māori. For many people I meet as I travel, especially in Asia, this almost always makes them break into their impromptu version of haka! While this can often make me cringe, at the same time it fills me with a sense of pride that always makes me smile. “Tohaina ō painga ki te Ao”; “Share your gifts with the world”.

Experts in Excellence

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SMATS Group began their journey in Singapore in 1995 when founders, Steve Douglas and Ravin Chatlani, identified an opportunity to assist Australian expatriates with tax returns and tax planning strategies.

The company’s founding commitment to provide ‘good old-fashioned customer service’ enabled global expansion, serving Australian expatriates all over the world. The company has always maintained a strong belief in upholding its core values of being genuine, approachable, and honest. This commitment to sincerely caring about the financial wellbeing of clients has seen many of their clients become friends and considered part of the SMATS family.

Founder Steve Douglas

Today, SMATS Group have a strong presence worldwide with offices in Malaysia, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Dubai, London, New York, Perth, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, and Torquay, in addition to staff working remotely worldwide to reach every corner of the globe.

The team of accountants are highly qualified, holding memberships with prestigious professional bodies including the Chartered Accountants Australian and New Zealand, Tax Institute of Australia, and Certified Practicing Accountants, among others.

Their expertise in international tax issues enables them to provide tax-effective and reduced-risk investment strategies, while unlocking the benefits of the Australian taxation system. With a strong focus on client education, SMATS helps clients understand how to optimise investment returns through tax incentives and concessions.

Advice & education

In addition to specialising in tax planning for Australian expats, they excel in tax planning for property investment, repatriation, migration, and retirement. An internal technical team dedicated to researching and strategising emerging developments and tax changes ensure clients receive the best advice and education to gain and retain a financial advantage.

The company’s excellence in service has been acknowledged through various accolades, not limited to, the Australian Financial Review’s Top 100 Accountancy Firms, Property Tax Firm of the Year in the Finance Monthly Awards, and Most Outstanding for Expat Australian Tax Planning in the AI Global Excellence Awards.

Over the years, they’ve diversified their service offerings to become a one-stop-shop for clients with services including mortgage broking, financial planning, real estate services, secured private lending and foreign exchange.

As the leading provider of Australian taxation, finance, and property services to Australian expatriates, investors, and intended migrants to Australia, SMATS Group have assisted thousands of international and Australian based clients to gain financial success.

Specialist Mortgage, the mortgage broking division led by Finance Director Helen Avis has a long-standing record of excellence as the top residential mortgage brokerage for Australian expatriates.

Finance Director Helen Avis

For over two decades, Specialist Mortgage has honed its ability to negotiate with lenders, enabling them to secure the best packages for Australian expatriates and foreign buyers who typically do not fit traditional lending models and can face higher rates and decreased lending options.

Helen and her team have recently added to their impressive list of achievements, securing the prestigious ‘MFAA Australian Mortgage Broker of the Year 2022’ award and winning ‘Best Customer Service’ from The Advisor.

These accolades are a testament to their unwavering commitment to tailored solutions and further cements the core fabric which SMATS Group weaves through all divisions ensuring that ‘good old-fashioned service’ is at the forefront of all services rendered.

Commitment to clients

SMATS Group’s unwavering commitment to providing exceptional client service has been particularly evident during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Australian expats faced uncertain and challenging situations, including decreased income, redundancies, sickness, separation from families, and border closures. They were struggling to obtain accurate professional advice from companies with adequate expertise and experience in their expat community that could really sympathise with what they were experiencing.

In these tough times, the expat community often felt abandoned, even by their homeland, and were unsure how to plan repatriation and make the best informed decisions on both a personal and financial level.

This core value of genuine care in the face of adversity hit a new level. SMATS Group stepped up to fill this void, providing free educational webinars and initial consultations that addressed the tax, finance, and property concerns of over 600,000 returning expats.
The company provided thousands of tax planning strategies for repatriation, secured mortgage relief packages and home loans, and even purchased homes for their overseas clients through their buyer’s agency service to ensure they had somewhere to live upon return.

Their mission to protect and advance people’s wellbeing through financial security and knowledge certainly came to the forefront during the disaster and has continued to be the lifeblood of all services provided.

SMATS Group
www.smats.net
+65 6293 3858
[email protected]

Don’t miss the Hollandse Club Welkom Festival

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The Hollandse Club warmly invites ANZA members to its open day event, Welkom Festival, on Sunday 20 August 2023, from 10.00am to 4.00pm. This free event promises a day filled with fun entertainment, and the chance to explore all that the Club has to offer.

Exciting Sports & Activities for Everyone

Immerse yourself in a wide range of activities designed to cater to all ages and interests.

Look out for:
• Tennis Challenges
• Pool Party
• Free trials for sports classes (hockey, squash, football, and fitness)
• Live band and music performances
• Kids activities
• Snacks and Refreshments
• And more!
For the full schedule and more information, click here.

Win Exciting Prizes and Freebies

As you participate in the different activity stations, you’ll receive exciting freebies. Complete each station and collect your rewards, adding an extra layer of excitement and enjoyment to your Welkom Festival experience. But that’s not all – event attendees will have the opportunity to enter the draw and be in with a chance to win amazing prizes.

Special Membership Offer

On the day of the Welkom Festival, take advantage of a fantastic offer. Sign up for a Hollandse Club 12-month Social Membership and enjoy an extra month FREE. Don’t miss this opportunity to become part of this vibrant community and make the most of the Club’s facilities, social events, and sports activities throughout the year.

Register for the Welkom Festival

Mark your calendars for Sunday 20 August 2023 as Hollandse Club opens its doors to the public for a day of entertainment, connections, and fun for the whole family. Be sure to register your attendance now to receive freebies on the day.

Join us as we celebrate and welcome you into our vibrant community.

About Hollandse Club

Hollandse Club is a sports and social Club offering a relaxed, warm, and inclusive community for individuals and families. Located at 22 Camden Park, Singapore 299814, the Club is tucked away amidst the lush surroundings of Bukit Timah. In addition to five tennis courts, three swimming pools, a padel court, two squash courts, a gym, and a co-working space, Hollandse Club also offers event spaces and meeting venues, perfect for networking sessions or tailor-made celebrations. Members can enjoy poolside dining at the Club restaurant while the little ones are entertained with craft activities at the Kids’ Club, or the water play area.

For more information on membership packages, please contact the Membership team at
[email protected] or (+65) 6464 5225 ext 142.

Welcome Australia’s High Commissioner to Singapore, Allaster Cox

Allaster, the then-Australian Deputy Head of Mission to Indonesia visiting Kopernik, an R&D Lab for social and environmental challenges, 2019. Pic by Kopernik

You’ve spent a lot of your career in Southeast Asia. How is it being back?
My wife Susila, who is Malaysian, and I couldn’t be happier. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in previous roles with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Vietnam, Brunei, Indonesia and Malaysia. I’m very passionate about understanding the affairs of the region and for interpreting their importance for Australia.

Singapore is such a vital hub for the entire region and Australia’s diplomatic ties with Singapore are strong and enduring. Susila and I are enjoying everything from the weather, the food, and all the people we’ve met so far.

Allaster and Susila enjoying their first dinner at Boon Tong Kee

What’s your favourite local fare?
I’m staying in River Valley, so we tried Boon Tong Kee Chicken Rice, and loved it. I’m also a fan of prawn laksa, charcoal grilled satay and chilli crab, all best described by the local phrase “shiok”! I’m looking forward to our two daughters visiting from Melbourne and embracing Singapore’s foodie trail.

Allaster meeting President Halimah Yacob. Pic by Ministry of Communications and Information


Please share some career highlights …
I really enjoyed my time as Ambassador to Vietnam from 2008-12. The people are very determined and dynamic and the regions of the country from the mountains to the Mekong Delta are picturesque and diverse. As High Commissioner in Brunei Darussalam from 2001-2003, I enjoyed the ready access to nature and the friendly people. I have fond memories of Indonesia, having lived there on and off for almost eight years. Travels for work to fascinating places like the highlands of Java and learning about the culture in Sumba are lifelong memories. For Susila and I, in many ways Malaysia is a second home. We loved living in KL in the late 1990s – a time of real change – and both our daughters were born in KL.

A very recent career highlight was meeting Singapore’s President Halimah Yacob at the Istana on 25 April, where I presented my credentials as High Commissioner to Singapore! She’s a very inspiring woman and community leader.

What are your plans as High Commissioner for the next few years?
In the face of rising global tensions, Australia and Singapore share the same hopes – both countries want to see sustained peace and stability in our region and globally. We’ll be engaging actively with Singapore and ASEAN partners more generally about how we can achieve that.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the first iteration of the Singapore Australia Free Trade Agreement (SAFTA), and 2025 marks the 10th anniversary of our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) – when we upgraded SAFTA, and the 60th year of Singapore’s independence and of diplomatic ties between our two countries.

These are important milestones, which I look forward to marking as High Commissioner here, with a view to further strengthening our bilateral relationship including government, business and investment, and people links.

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