Smart Private Wealth, part of the Smart Business Solutions Group, has been honoured as a recipient of the prestigious 2025 Barry Lambert Award, recognising exceptional community fundraising and volunteer work within the Count Financial network. The award, presented by the Count Charitable Foundation, celebrates firms who demonstrate meaningful, long-term impact through their philanthropic partnerships and local community engagement.

Smart Private Wealth shares this year’s recognition with Moggs Accounting + Advisory, acknowledging both firms’ efforts to give back beyond the numbers.

As part of the award, Smart Private Wealth will receive a $5,000 grant to donate to a not-for-profit organisation of their choice, continuing their commitment to supporting causes that make a real difference across the Mornington Peninsula.

“This award means so much to our team because it recognises the heart behind what we do,” said Director Shannon Smit. “We’re proud that our fundraising isn’t just about writing cheques - it’s about being present, building relationships, and helping our community thrive.”

In FY2025, Smart Private Wealth raised and donated more than $76,000 to support local charities and community initiatives, including:

• Fusion Mornington Peninsula Garden Party – $17,500 to support youth housing and family support programs
  
• SMART Charity Golf Day for Mental Health Safety Net – $30,000 raised, funding suicide prevention training in local public schools & community groups
  
• Fashion for a Cause event – $10,000 for Clothes 4U’s services supporting vulnerable women
  
• Donations of $5,000 each to Peninsula Transport Assist and The Ranch Project, providing crisis accommodation and essential transport services for disadvantaged community members
  

Each initiative was supported not only financially, but through the hands-on involvement of the SMART team - from event planning to attendance, logistics and promotion. As Platinum Plus  members of the Count Charitable Foundation, SMART leveraged double-dollar matching on several events to significantly increase community impact.

“We’re particularly proud that many of our community initiatives come from within our team,” said Shannon. “Whether it’s fundraising, volunteering, or advocacy - it’s driven by people who care deeply about this region.”

In addition to their charitable focus, Smart Business Solutions continues to empower the local business community through educational initiatives such as the B.I.T.E. Business Conference - a not-for-profit event created and run by SMART to support small businesses with practical learning, innovation, and inspiration.

“Giving back is just part of how we do business. We believe that when our community does well, we all benefit. This award is a reflection of that shared success,” Shannon added.