Who are you and what do you do?

My name is Jodie Stanley, and I am quantity surveyor that specialises in tax depreciation schedules. I work for a privately owned local company called Central Queensland Quantity Surveying (CQQS) and the best part is that it is a family-owned business.

When did you start in the mining industry and what was your first job?

I began my business in 2004, a year after I graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Quantity Surveying from CQU. First in Townsville and later in Mackay. Before going out on my own I worked for large construction companies and suppliers as well as in the public sector at the State Government’s Department of Works in the business unit that was called Project Services.

How different is your job to what you wanted to be as a kid?

When I was younger, I loved playing with Lego, taking pictures (with a Kodak!) and I loved typing on the typewriter at Dad’s work. My dad was a Cost Accountant too.

What’s a usual day at work entail?

I get paid to estimate, go look at things, take photos and learn things and help others. I get to work both in the office and go to mine sites. I also get to talk to people and solve their problems.

What’s the best thing about your job?

The interesting people I meet and all the places that I go. Each day is different.

The worst thing?

Often when I call people they don’t recognise my number and they think I’m a telemarketer!

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome?

Most people have never heard of a Quantity Surveyor (I jokingly often tell people I am a glorified estimator) and I specialise in preparing Tax Depreciation Schedules (which most people have never heard of). We provide a service that most property investors need to help them PAY LESS TAX – but it seems like a well-kept secret only a few people know about.

What has been your proudest achievement?

Winning the Regional Master Builder Women in Building Award.

What’s something about your job that would surprise people to know?

As well as being a Construction Cost Consultant I am also a registered tax agent.

What’s a funny story about your work?

One day I did an inspection, and someone had a blow up friend on the couch!

What do you do in your downtime?

I enjoy activities like watching gridiron, being outdoors, gardening and eating whenever I have the opportunity.

The mining industry gets more than its fair share of criticism. What is your view of our industry and the impact it has?

Even Elon Musk agrees we need mining. In addition to providing the resources we need now and into the future, it drives economic growth along with technical innovation. The benefit to the economy along with the support to the community is also mitigated by responsible practices and environmental stewardship.