Why we do what we do
We believe money should serve your values, not run your life. Our job is to help make that real.
Meet the team
Our story from day one
1993: Mackenzie & Mackenzie Chartered Accountants founded
Brothers David and Tim Mackenzie established the firm in New Lambton, built on integrity and practical financial expertise to help locals secure their future.
Late 1990s: Expanding into financial planning
Recognising the need for quality financial advice, the firm sought to offer a complete advice service. David led the new division, ensuring clients received clear and future-focused guidance.
2002: Kilpatrick Lake Mackenzie (KLM) formed
Mackenzie & Mackenzie merged with Kilpatrick Lake Accountants, creating Kilpatrick Lake Mackenzie; a firm united by shared values and a vision to help clients secure their future.
Early 2000s: Growth of the financial planning arm
The financial planning division continued to grow, supporting clients with structured, strategic advice and a people-first approach that remains central today.
2013-14: Chris and Salena begin serving local clients
Before joining the KLM team, Christopher Upton and Salena Stonehouse each began providing personalised financial advice, helping Newcastle clients make confident, informed decisions about their future.
2020: Chris joins the financial planning arm
Chris comes aboard the KLM team to help expand its financial planning division. Building on strong foundations laid by previous advisers, his leadership supported the firm’s growth. His transition to Partner reinforced KLM’s position as a leading high-quality advice provider in the Charlestown community.
Today: Unified KLM team
With Salena joining the team in 2024, the KLM Financial Planners arm was complete. Today, they bring complementary strengths and decades of experience. Their shared values for genuine client care continue the vision first set in motion by David and Tim.
Values that drive us every day
People first
Money is there to serve your life and values, and so are we.
Plain English, always
If it is not easy to understand, our work isn't done yet.
Decisions into action
Good advice includes clear steps and real help with follow-through.
Partnership + accountability
Benefit from an experienced partner who does what they say and keeps you informed.
Proactive care
When rules shift or the world moves, you hear from us with what matters and why.
Collaborative approach
When your situation calls for it, we work smoothly with your other professionals so everything pulls in the same direction.
Meet our team
Ready to talk it through?
You don’t need all the answers before we talk. Bring your questions and we’ll work it out together.
Take the next step towards your day one, today.
Start your day one