Moore Stephens Queensland today announced the acquisition of PricewaterhouseCoopers’ (PwC) Townsville practice; effective 15 April 2010, making it the pre-eminent accounting, audit and business advisory firm in regional Queensland.

Mr Ken Pickard, Moore Stephens Queensland’s Managing Director, said this acquisition was an integral part of the firm’s growth strategy. “This acquisition gives us the critical mass to drive accelerated growth of our audit and wealth management divisions in particular,” he said.

“The acquisition brings significant additional Small and Medium Enterprise expertise,” Mr Pickard added. “This expansion of knowledge, experience and clients will result in enhanced opportunities for our clients and staff in this region and across Queensland.”

“And, of course, our access to the outstanding Moore Stephens network in Australia and around the world means we can further assist our clients in the region to grow and develop beyond regional Queensland,” Mr Pickard said.

“Importantly, there is an excellent cultural fit between the former PwC Townsville practice and Moore Stephens Queensland ”  said Mr Pickard.  “We share an absolute commitment to successful commercial outcomes for clients and providing the best possible opportunities for our people and look forward to welcoming the PwC Townsville staff to Moore Stephens’ North Queensland team.”

Mark Johnson, PricewaterhouseCoopers CEO said “Moore Stephens Queensland is the pre-eminent practice in regional Queensland and there is an excellent cultural fit with our Townsville practice.  We have decided to transfer our Townsville practice to Moore Stephens Queensland as our firm’s industry focus has evolved and changed nationally.

Our Townsville office has been an important and profitable part of the Australian firm's growth and history, and we thank our former staff and partners for their dedication and commitment to the firm” said Mr Johnson.

Moore Stephens Queensland is the seventh largest firm in the state. Following the acquisition, the firm in Townsville will have five principals and 81 staff specialising in holistic strategic advice around accounting and tax compliance, assurance, superannuation, GST and tax consulting, management consulting and wealth creation.