Client success story: How a small business restructure turned crisis into opportunity

Jackie and Brad gave us hope. They went through every option and found a way to keep us going.

Running an excavation business is challenging in the best of times, but when relentless bad weather struck, this company found itself in deep financial trouble. With little to no income, they still had to pay wages and meet high purchase payments. As ATO debt piled up, they felt trapped, out of options, and on the verge of walking away from everything they had built.

Having worked with PKF Partner Jackie Marriott for six years, they turned to her in their time of need. Jackie, alongside Brad Tonks, PKF Business Recovery and Insolvency Partner, explored every possible solution. The best path forward? A Small Business Restructuring (SBR) plan, allowing them to continue operations while addressing financial challenges. Through detailed projections and analysis, PKF were able to help secured an agreement with creditors, including the ATO, to settle debts at just 20 cents in the dollar—effectively wiping nearly $800,000 of debt off the books.

With PKF’s guidance, the business restructured its financial obligations and kept its team employed. The relief was overwhelming—tears were shed when the good news came through. But more than just escaping crisis mode, PKF is now working closely with them to ensure they never end up in this position again. By aligning income with expenses, tracking weather forecasts against project schedules, and refining project selection, they’ve built a sustainable future.

Jackie Marriott, PKF Business Advisory Partner, reflects on the experience: 

“One of the most rewarding parts of what we do is seeing a client who felt like they had no way out realise there is a path forward. This wasn’t an easy road, but together, we found a solution that kept their business running and their team employed.”

Brad Tonks, PKF Business Recovery Partner, adds: 

“It’s never easy to sit down with a client and talk about liquidation. But that’s why PKF is different—we have the expertise to explore all options and find the best possible outcome. The moment they realised they weren’t going to lose everything—that’s why we do what we do.”

For the business owners, the impact was life-changing: 

“We felt like we had no choice but to walk away. The thought of our team losing their jobs was heartbreaking. But Jackie and Brad gave us hope. They went through every option and found a way to keep us going. When we got the good news, I just broke down—I couldn’t believe it. Jackie, you’ve been incredible—not just as an advisor, but as a friend.”

They also acknowledged their close relationship with PKF Partner and PKF Australia Chairman, Steve Meyn: 

“Steve, you probably don’t hear this enough, but you are unbelievable at what you do. I’m proud to tell anyone about PKF and the work you do. I wouldn’t have made it through this without you all.”

Today, this business is stronger, more financially stable, and better prepared for the future. PKF’s expertise didn’t just help them survive—it set them up for long-term success.

If your business is struggling with debt, don’t go through it alone. PKF’s 100% SBR success rate* can give you confidence in your business’s future. We provide expert guidance with no judgement. 

*As of 9 May 2025.