www.graduateopportunities.com >> industry snapshots 65


sponsor accounting


Overview Accounting is one of the most highly regarded careers in the business world today. Why? Because it’s not just money but numbers that make the world go round, and the recent economic challenges have meant that now more than ever accountants are required to meet the needs of today’s dynamic business environment. Even in an economic downturn there is a demand for proven, young accounting professionals in Australia because of the breadth of knowledge they can bring to an organisation. This trend is set to continue.


The work Accounting and finance professionals work to ensure that companies or organisations are financially efficient and profitable. Accountants are valued for their commercial know-how, analytical thinking and leadership abilities, and are often considered to be the interpreters in the language of business today.


Accountants interpret financial information to make informed decisions about an organisation’s prosperity and direction. The depth of experience and training required to be an accountant makes it an ideal step into broad senior management roles. It’s therefore not surprising that many heads of business start off with an accounting qualification, gaining an essential understanding of how businesses operate.


An accounting role can involve the measurement, interpretation and communication of financial activity. This could mean working in strategic planning or market


“I am part of a team that works with the engineers, project managers and technical personnel whose primary responsibility is the maintenance and expansion of the electricity infrastructure within the south west of Western Australia.


I have been able to learn about the workings of a new industry, apply my knowledge to make recommendations on a daily basis and help people who do not naturally have a finance focus. A fantastic work-life balance means that the years of late nights studying have all been worth it.”


Belinda Lake CA, Business Analyst, Western Power


analysis, as an accountant or auditor, or in specialised areas such as financial planning or forensic accounting.


Accountants can work everywhere! Every company and organisation requires some form of accountant, whether it be a major conglomerate or a small or medium-sized enterprise. Therefore accountants are found in fashion houses or technology companies, in government organisations and charities, as well as working for major clients in a Big 4 professional firm – KPMG, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Deloitte, Ernst & Young – or a public practice firm.


Accounting is a job for life because, once qualified, there is a world of opportunity. The growth potential within a role extends all the way to the top of an organisation and the work can be as varied as you want to make it.


For more information visit: www.charteredaccountants.com.au/students www.cpaaustralia.com.au


What you need postgraduate accounting qualification and work experience – the two key professional accounting designations in Australia are Chartered Accountant (CA) or Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA)


both accounting bodies provide useful information about how to become qualified, the work opportunities available, and how to get started.


GCA and Graduate Opportunities thank The Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia for assistance with this industry snapshot.


money matters:


graduate salary ranges for selected relevant occupations($)


Accountant: 40 - 55k Accounting Clerk: 38 - 58k Internal Auditor: 45 - 54k


Figures from the Australian Graduate Survey 2009, GCA. Ranges refer to the middle 50 per cent of salaries for bachelor degree graduates with permanent residency, in full-time employment in Australia late ‘08-early ‘09.


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