Accountant (NSW) | Job Guide

Accountant (NSW/ACT)

Education and Training:

To become an accountant you usually have to complete a VET qualification in accounting. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information. You may be able to study through distance education.

You can also become an accountant by studying business or commerce at university with a major in accounting. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English and mathematics are normally required. Most universities in Australia offer degrees in business or commerce with a major in accounting. Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact Open Universities Australia or the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Additional Information:

Graduates may qualify for entry to the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia (ICAA), CPA Australia or the Institute of Public Accountants (IPA). Eligibility for membership varies and may require work experience and/or further study.

Related Courses:

While the following courses are related to this occupation, they may not necessarily lead directly to employment, nor provide the most direct pathway to the occupation. Courses which provide preliminary or informal training, as well as those which provide additional job skills following initial qualifications may also be listed.

*Course is offered by more than one institution. Click link for details.

Employment Opportunities:

Accountants work in diverse environments, including sporting organisations, retail outlets, government organisations, finance companies, banks and building societies, real estate firms, taxation consultancies, community service organisations and accounting firms. They can work in partnership with other accountants or be self-employed.

Employment opportunities for accountants can vary from year to year for many reasons, such as changes in taxation and other commercial laws, changes in the demand for financial advice and planning services, industry restructuring and the general level of activity in all sectors of business. The financial viability of firms and advances in technology may also have an effect on employment.