Turn your passions into a career! Discover how you can make epic things happen with a career in accounting. make epic things happen
Welcome to the world of accounting 3 Why a career in accounting is the ultimate flex 4 Unlock a world of opportunities and skills 5 Discover your perfect career match 6 Cyber defender 7 Climate change warrior 7 Financial sleuth 8 Business guru 8 Crime fighter 9 Number ninja 9 Community leader 10 Business trailblazer 10 Professional influencer 11 Money master 11 Financial harvester 12 Public guardian 12 Real accountants (CAs) making epic things happen 13 What’s next? Uncover the steps for an epic future 14 Top tips from accounting students 15 Contents epic things happen Get ready to make 2
Hey there! I’m Mackenzie, and I’m currently studying accounting at uni in Queensland. It’s the best thing I ever did. Did you know that accounting could be the ultimate ticket into any industry you’re passionate about? Whether it’s music, gaming, fashion, the environment, or anything else, accounting can take you there. My journey into this world started back in high school when I discovered my love for business and economics. I explored different career paths through internships, and that’s when it struck me – accounting was the perfect fit! Welcome to the world of accounting TIP: Did you know that accounting could be the ultimate ticket into any industry you’re passionate about? Here’s the coolest part about accounting – it’s not just about maths and crunching numbers, it’s about solving real-world problems, collaborating with awesome people, and leaving your mark on the world. Plus, it opens the door to endless adventures and travel opportunities. Sounds pretty cool, right? Looking ahead, my dream is to work in an energy company one day, contributing to its success and driving impactful changes through strategic decision-making. I aim to be at the forefront of change in the climate action space and I’m confident that my accounting skills will be key in turning this dream into a reality. Accounting’s made my life more interesting in ways I never imagined, and I’m sure it can do the same for you. Even if you’re not 100% sold on studying accounting, it’ll set you up with valuable business skills that can supercharge any career you choose. I’m excited for all the incredible places accounting can take you! Mackenzie - Future Climate Change Warrior 3
Behind every athlete, every business big or small, every brand you love, and every game you lose yourself in, there is a financial expert making epic things possible. As an accountant, you’re the go-to problem solver, using your money smarts and business skills to help your company or clients reach their goals. It’s about putting together clues to create a plan for the business, looking at the big picture, and coming up with a clever strategy for success. Accounting can open the door to just about any industry your heart desires. Imagine being the mastermind behind the next big social media sensation, the genius orchestrating live events and music festivals, or a change-maker in a not-for-profit organisation. Explore exciting fields like sports, entertainment, gaming and tech. You could even roll with big names like Disney, Nike, and YouTube. 1. Job security: You’ll always be hot property. 2. Awesome earning opportunities: Live the good life earning the big bucks. 3. Travel the world: With skills as your passport, the world’s your oyster. 4. Work in any industry: Pursue your passions. 5. Fresh opportunities: New gigs are always popping up. 6. Varied roles: On the roles buffet, pick your fave flavour. 7. Climb high: Follow the footsteps of big-shot CEOs. 8. Earn respect: This career’s got major street cred. 9. Transferable skills: Pack up your skills and take them to any industry you fancy. 10. Life-work balance: Live your best life while enjoying an awesome career. Why a career in accounting is the ultimate flex You can be whatever you want The top 10 perks of accounting You’re at the heart of every business 4
In Australia and New Zealand, accounting is one of the largest professions and is where the cash is at. Grads pull in an average annual salary* of $60,000. But CA-certified pros? They’re cashing in up to $175,000 (oh yeah!).** The best part? You can work anywhere in the world – in your dream industry. AI’s got your back. It’s transforming the way modern accountants work. Now you can focus on the exciting stuff – you’re a data wizard, insights detective, and strategic mastermind! Do you dream of growing a side hustle, becoming an entrepreneur, or a champion for social justice? Accounting skills can make it happen. • Be a problem-solving pro • Hone your decision making game • Polish your people skills • Level up on logic and fairness • Be money wise in business and life * Indicative average only – exact salary will depend on location, industry, and role. Hays Salary Guide FY23/24 Accounting and Finance. ** Data obtained for senior qualified accountants in managerial roles in Queensland, Australia. Hays Salary Guide FY23/24 Accounting and Finance. Unlock a world of opportunities and skills Less number crunching, more epic Skills that can take you anywhere! Accounting is your ticket to freedom TIP: Accounting skills like problem-solving, negotiation, and analytical thinking, can help you get ahead both in your career and your life. 5
Whether you’re into computer games, helping the planet, uncovering mysteries, fashion, music, farming, or anything else, there’s an accounting role that’ll rock your world. Start exploring the following careers and find your perfect match. Discover your perfect career match 6
Environmental accounting Embrace your inner financial eco-warrior, armed with the power of data collection and number-crunching. Your mission? Uncover the environmental impact of business decisions, share your findings, and make epic things happen for our planet. Where could I work? Any company who report on their environmental impact, from engineering and manufacturing firms to large corporates or government departments who manage a nation’s natural resources. How do I get there? You don’t need to study anything specific in high school, but business and science-related subjects can help you get a head start. Climate change warrior Is it a good match for me? If you are passionate about the environment, are on a mission to rescue our planet, or you’re head over heels for science and maths, while rocking stellar communication and problem-solving skills, then you’re a match. Cybersecurity analysts Embark on the path of a fearless cyber hero and make epic things happen! Wield your skills to safeguard sensitive data, ensure systems are updated, patrol the digital frontlines, and be ready to thwart any breaches. Where could I work? Numerous consulting, financial services, and engineering companies like Accenture, Microsoft, Westpac, ANZ, and Siemens, or large corporations like Apple and Toyota. How do I get there? You don’t need to study anything specific in high school, but business and tech-related subjects can help you get a head start. Cyber defender Is it a good match for me? If you enjoy tackling challenges, are adaptable, and a fast thinker with good communication skills, then this career is a perfect match for you. Ability to work overseas* Graduate salary** $40k $100k $65k $95k Graduate salary** $40k $100k $62k $95k **Salary upon qualification is indicative and excludes superannuation (AU) or KiwiSaver (NZ) - exact salary varies based on location, industry, and role. Hays Salary Guide FY24/25 for Accounting and Finance. Ability to work overseas* * An indicator of the transferability of the accounting experience/skills worldwide. **Salary upon qualification is indicative and excludes superannuation (AU) or KiwiSaver (NZ) - exact salary varies based on location, industry, and role. Hays Salary Guide FY24/25 for Accounting and Finance * An indicator of the transferability of the accounting experience/skills worldwide. 7
Audit As an auditor, you’re not just a number-cruncher, you’re a truth-seeker on a mission to uphold accuracy. You’ll make epic things happen as a true number detective dedicated to unraveling financial mysteries. How do I get there? You don’t need to study anything specific in high school, but business-related subjects can help you get a head start. Financial sleuth $100k Is it a good match for me? If you’re naturally curious, teamwork is your second nature, and excel at both communication and finding creative solutions, then you’re a perfect match. Ability to work overseas* Graduate salary** $40k $60k $90k Where could I work? Any accounting firm or most large corporates like banks, or multinational consumer companies like Xbox, YouTube, Coca-Cola, L’Oréal. Or even in a charity like Children International. Management consulting Be a total business boss as a management consultant. You’ll make epic things happen by using your strategic smarts to tackle challenges head-on, revolutionise processes and drive business performance to new heights. Where could I work? In specialist consulting firms, your clients could include: large corporations, government departments, public and private sector companies like Netflix, or Nestlé, and not-for-profits such as World Wide Fund for Nature. How do I get there? You don’t need to study anything specific in high school, but business-related subjects can help you get a head start. Business guru Is it a good match for me? Do you possess top-notch communication, impeccable time management, and sharp analytical skills? Do you work well under pressure? Then management consulting is your ideal arena. Ability to work overseas* Graduate salary** $40k $100k $65k $92k **Salary upon qualification is indicative and excludes superannuation (AU) or KiwiSaver (NZ) - exact salary varies based on location, industry, and role. Hays Salary Guide FY24/25 for Accounting and Finance. * An indicator of the transferability of the accounting experience/skills worldwide. **Salary upon qualification is indicative and excludes superannuation (AU) or KiwiSaver (NZ) - exact salary varies based on location, industry, and role. Hays Salary Guide FY24/25 for Accounting and Finance. * An indicator of the transferability of the accounting experience/skills worldwide. 8
Forensic accounting Become a financial detective who delivers truth and justice. Dive into court cases, uncover details that expose criminal activities, help prosecute lawbreakers, and make epic things happen. Where could I work? Various legal firms, law enforcement and government agencies like police, justice departments, and airport security, as well as top accounting firms and insurance companies like Allianz. How do I get there? You don’t need to study anything specific in high school, but business-related subjects can help you get a head start. Crime fighter Is it a good match for me? If you’re a curious person who can stay objective and loves attention to detail, then you’ll love forensic accounting. Ability to work overseas* Graduate salary** $40k $100k $65k $90k Taxation Make epic things happen working in taxation. You’ll ensure businesses stay on the right side of the law, and be their tax-savvy sidekick, providing guidance on strategic business choices, asset acquisitions and operational matters. Where could I work? Accounting firms of every size, whether they are big players, small teams, or you could even be the mastermind behind your very own business. How do I get there? You don’t need to study anything specific in high school, but business-related subjects can help you get a head start. Number ninja Is it a good match for me? If you are a master of both people and numbers, an excellent listener, and possess eagle-eyed attention to detail, then you’re a seamless fit. Ability to work overseas* Graduate salary** $40k $100k $62k $82k **Salary upon qualification is indicative and excludes superannuation (AU) or KiwiSaver (NZ) - exact salary varies based on location, industry, and role. Hays Salary Guide FY24/25 for Accounting and Finance. * An indicator of the transferability of the accounting experience/skills worldwide. **Salary upon qualification is indicative and excludes superannuation (AU) or KiwiSaver (NZ) - exact salary varies based on location, industry, and role. Hays Salary Guide FY24/25 for Accounting and Finance. * An indicator of the transferability of the accounting experience/skills worldwide. 9
Indigenous tax and advisory Tell the story behind the numbers and drive transformation within the local community, supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander as well as Māori enterprises and local neighbourhoods. Make epic things happen, empowering the expansion of businesses, communities, and cultural richness. Community leader Is it a good match for me? If you’re passionate about building family connections, creating a positive impact in your community, and have a knack for using your analytical and storytelling talents to support the growth of small businesses, this role offers an exciting chance to make a difference. Corporate accounting Step into the exciting world of corporate accounting and become a financial guru! Make epic things happen by always having your finger on the pulse, helping managers allocate funds, and ensuring the company’s financial success. Where could I work? Heaps of private and public companies like Airbnb, Nike, or Amazon, as well as not-for-profits like the Red Cross and World Vision International. How do I get there? You don’t need to study anything specific in high school, but business-related subjects can help you get a head start. Business trailblazer Is it a good match for me? If you like order, detail and structure, are organised and you have strong analytical and communication skills, then this career is a good fit for you. Ability to work overseas* Graduate salary** $40k $100k $60k $85k Where could I work? Your own accounting firm, start-ups, community centres, government departments, banks supporting local communities, and not-for-profit organisations. How do I get there? You don’t need to study anything specific in high school, but business-related subjects can help you get a head start. Ability to work overseas* Graduate salary** $40k $100k $60k $85k **Salary upon qualification is indicative and excludes superannuation (AU) or KiwiSaver (NZ) - exact salary varies based on location, industry, and role. Hays Salary Guide FY24/25 for Accounting and Finance. * An indicator of the transferability of the accounting experience/skills worldwide. **Salary upon qualification is indicative and excludes superannuation (AU) or KiwiSaver (NZ) - exact salary varies based on location, industry, and role. Hays Salary Guide FY24/25 for Accounting and Finance. * An indicator of the transferability of the accounting experience/skills worldwide. 10
Business advisory Become a business advisor and unleash your inner influencer! You’ll make epic things happen with the latest tech, boost efficiency, and set trends in problem-solving and assessing risks for businesses. Where could I work? Accounting firms of any size, technology organisations, and health services such as Google, Samsung, and Johnson & Johnson, plus not-for-profits like Oxfam and Doctors Without Borders. How do I get there? You don’t need to study anything specific in high school, but business-related subjects can help you get a head start. Professional influencer Is it a good match for me? If you’re the kind of person who loves taking the lead, with strong problem-solving and communication skills, then you are totally set for an epic adventure in the realm of business advisory. Corporate finance Make epic things happen as you rock the cash flow. You’ll elevate, distribute, and skilfully manage business finances, all while being primed to seize investment opportunities that pop up. Where could I work? Loads of large corporations like Disney, PlayStation, PepsiCo, and Kellogg’s as well as financial services like HSBC and the biggest accounting firms. How do I get there? You don’t need to study anything specific in high school, but business-related subjects can help you get a head start. Money master Is it a good match for me? If you have people skills, communication finesse, empathetic vibes, teamwork mojo, ability to problem-solve, and a love of understanding how businesses work – you’re a tailor-made superstar for this career. Ability to work overseas* Graduate salary** $40k $100k $60k $90k Ability to work overseas* Graduate salary** $40k $100k $60k $87k **Salary upon qualification is indicative and excludes superannuation (AU) or KiwiSaver (NZ) - exact salary varies based on location, industry, and role. Hays Salary Guide FY24/25 for Accounting and Finance. * An indicator of the transferability of the accounting experience/skills worldwide. **Salary upon qualification is indicative and excludes superannuation (AU) or KiwiSaver (NZ) - exact salary varies based on location, industry, and role. Hays Salary Guide FY24/25 for Accounting and Finance. * An indicator of the transferability of the accounting experience/skills worldwide. 11
Agricultural accounting Make epic things happen in the farming world. You’ll be the financial captain, steering through the financial landscape and offering strategic advice to harvest growth and prosperity for agricultural businesses. Where could I work? Any agricultural business like a dairy farm, organic farm, horticulture, beekeer or fruit producer, as well as commercial banks or consultancy agencies. How do I get there? You don’t need to study anything specific in high school, but business-related subjects can help you get a head start. Financial harvester Is it a good match for me? If your heart belongs to agriculture, your mind thrives on business, and you have a thing for numbers, then agricultural accounting is the perfect puzzle piece that completes your career match. Ability to work overseas* Graduate salary** $40k $100k $65k $90k Government accounting Be the financial superhero who wears the government cape managing the money of public organisations. Use your powers to shape decisions that impact us all, and ensure taxpayers’ funds are used wisely and ethically, all while advancing the greater good and making epic things happen. Where could I work? At all levels of government and at numerous departments such as education, health and human services, agriculture, transport and defence. Or at the United Nations managing funds for international humanitarian and development projects. How do I get there? You don’t need to study anything specific in high school, but business-related subjects can help you get a head start. Is it a good match for me? If you’re a common good fighter, a curious and impartial explorer, a team collaborator with a strong moral compass, and a master communicator, negotiator, and problem solver, then you’re a perfect fit. Ability to work overseas* Graduate salary** $40k $100k $62k $92k Public guardian ** Indicative range only – exact salary will depend on location, industry, and role. Hays Salary Guide FY23/24 Accounting and Finance. * An indicator of the transferability of the accounting experience/skills worldwide. ** Indicative range only – exact salary will depend on location, industry, and role. Hays Salary Guide FY23/24 Accounting and Finance. * An indicator of the transferability of the accounting experience/skills worldwide. 12
Meet Amanda Gore CA Founder and Director of The Centre for Global Advancement (C4GA). • She’s a real-life crime fighter based in Kenya. • Combats wildlife and environmental crime by following money trails. • Travels globally training authorities to detect and investigate financial crimes. • Is passionate about helping the planet. Meet Rebecca Glover CA Senior Finance Director at World Vision. • She works for the world’s biggest humanitarian organisation. • Ensures World Vision’s resources are put to their best use. • Finds working in a not-for-profit to be incredibly fulfilling. • Is driven by her passion to create a brighter, better world. Meet Rishabh Tandon CA Music Licensing Expert at YouTube. • He’s Aussie-born, and now lives and works in New York City. • Collaborates with music artists, songwriters, and creators. • Ensures musicians get rewarded for their creativity. • Has turned his passion for music and travel into a career. Real accountants (CAs) making epic things happen Community Empowerer Business Trailblazer Crime Fighter 13
Level up your job hunt Explore your institution’s workplace learning opportunities. Getting real-world experience in your desired field during your studies boosts your competitive edge in job-hunting. Start your career Make epic things happen in an industry you love. Get a head start There are no prerequisites you need to study in high school. But diving into subjects like business, enterprise studies, accounting, agriculture, maths, technology, economics, and science, can help you get ahead of the game! Explore your interests Discover the ins and outs of the businesses, brands and causes you’re passionate about. Gain practical experience Ask to do some interning at a local business. Some places take high school students as ‘cadets’, so you could kick-start your career right from high school. What’s next? Uncover the steps for an epic future TIP: Look into programs like the Year13’s Virtual Work Experiences and the CA ANZ’s Achiever Program to get a taste of the business world and the skills that’ll help you succeed. Boost your career In today’s fast-paced world, professionals need an edge, and the CA Program’s globally recognised qualification provides exactly that. 1 3 4 2 5 Study accounting Apply for and complete an undergraduate qualification, such as a Bachelor of Accounting, Bachelor of Business or Commerce with a major in accounting. Or consider an accounting or business diploma from a Polytech or TAFE, or other government-registered higher education provider. Complete high school Do your HSC (AU) or NCEA (NZ). Pick the right subjects Accredited accounting courses prep you for success with skills in Accounting Systems, Financial Accounting, Audit, Business Law, Economics, Finance, Management Accounting, Quantitative Methods, Tax, ICT, and Business Acumen, so you can rock as an accountant after graduation. 6 7 9 8 14
TIP: Have questions? Ask us anything or request a school visit from our awesome speaker squad (CAs and accounting students) to share their real-world stories and insights. “It’s remarkable how many CEOs and directors of large companies are Chartered Accountants. Studying accounting can lead you to incredible opportunities.” Bachelor of Business and Accounting student at Monash University, Australia. Top tips from accounting students Mitchell “With accounting skills you could work in London in a big corporate firm, or stay local and support small businesses. Clarify your goals, dreams and ambitions, then pursue your degree and work hard. When you look up, you’ll find you have all you want and more.” Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting and Taxation) student at the University of Canterbury, New Zealand. “I understand the pressure of making a career choice in high school. Gather as much information as possible to make an informed decision. Attend information nights or networking events. Now’s the best time to explore all your options.” Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting and Finance) student at the University of Auckland, New Zealand. Kjirsti Benjamin 15
Let us help you achieve your career goals Discover what CEOs, founders and entrepreneurs have in common, how innovative thinking can change the world, and how the accounting profession can lead to your dream industry. Explore resources and tips for your epic career journey – including the Business Class e-learning Academy to help you create a life you’re passionate about! MakeEpicThingsHappen.com Collab w/ BUSINESS CLASS Disclaimer: This document is intended to provide general information and is not legal, financial, or professional advice. This document does not take into account your particular circumstances or needs. You should not act or rely solely on any statement, view, or opinion expressed in this document and should make your own inquiries and seek further professional guidance before making any decisions. No warranty is given as to the correctness of the information contained in this document, or of its suitability for use by you. To the fullest extent permitted by law, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ) is not liable for any statement or opinion, or for any error or omission contained in this document and disclaims all warranties with regard to the information contained in it, including, without limitation, all implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. References to views, recommendations or information made by third parties in this document do not necessarily represent the views of CA ANZ and CA ANZ does not take responsibility for the content of those views, recommendations, or information. CA ANZ is not liable for any direct, indirect, special or consequential losses or damages of any kind, or loss of profit, loss or corruption of data, business interruption or indirect costs, arising out of or in connection with the use of this document or the information contained in it, whether such loss or damage arises in contract, negligence, tort, under statute, or otherwise. Copyright Notice: ©2024 Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand ABN 50 084 642 571. Formed in Australia. Members of CA ANZ are not liable for the debts and liabilities of CA ANZ.
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