Mr Whelan has over 50 years of experience as a professional accountant. He has held positions as Managing Partner and Chairman of Partners of a major mid-tier accounting firm in South Australia. He practiced mainly in the areas of corporate advisory and audit. Mr Whelan has experience as an auditor and adviser in the aged care and retirement living sectors. He has also prepared experts reports on capital raising and company listings. Mr Whelan is currently a member of the Board and Finance Committee of a major South Australian charity that provides affordable accommodation to those in need, a member of the Adelaide Motorsport Festival Advisory Committee and a director of a family business operating in the retail clothing and foot-wear sector.