Accounting Jobs in Australia 2025: Top Employers and Career Tips

Why Accounting Remains a Strong Career in 2025

Accounting continues to shine as a top career choice in Australia for 2025, with demand soaring across industries like finance, healthcare, government, technology, and retail. Despite automation streamlining some tasks, the human skills at the heart of accounting—think sharp analysis, meticulous attention to detail, and clear communication—remain irreplaceable. The profession's resilience is evident in Australia's ongoing shortage of skilled accountants, with estimates suggesting a need for 30,000 more professionals in the coming years (Nationwide Visas). This gap ensures job security, competitive salaries, and global recognition, making accounting a stable and rewarding path. Whether you're in Sydney or a regional town, the clear progression from junior roles to senior management offers long-term potential. Curious about other high-demand careers? Check out our guide to high-paying jobs in Australia or visit our career blog for more inspiration.

Most In-Demand Accounting Roles in 2025

The accounting job market in 2025 prioritizes roles blending technical expertise with adaptability to new tools. Here's a snapshot of the hottest roles, drawn from insights in the Robert Half 2025 Salary Guide and Jobs in Accounting:

• Financial Accountant: Prepares financial statements and ensures compliance ($93,500–$112,500).
• Management Accountant: Handles budgeting and forecasting ($100,000–$120,000).
• Tax Accountant: Manages tax compliance and planning ($60,000–$100,000).
• Auditors (Internal/External): Ensures financial accuracy ($60,000–$100,000).
• Payroll Manager: Oversees payroll operations ($83,500–$125,000).
• Accounts Payable/Receivable Officer: Manages payments and receipts ($70,000–$79,000).
• Forensic Accountant: Investigates financial fraud ($80,000–$140,000).
• Bookkeeper: Entry-level role for basic accounting tasks ($73,500–$93,500).

These roles cater to everyone from graduates to seasoned pros. Interested in bookkeeping as a starting point? Explore our guide to bookkeeping jobs in Australia for more details.

Key Skills and Qualifications

Success in accounting demands a mix of formal qualifications, soft skills, and tech know-how. A Bachelor of Accounting or Commerce is the standard entry point, with a Master of Professional Accounting boosting prospects for advanced roles (Swinburne Open Education). Certifications like CPA Australia, CA ANZ, or IPA are game-changers, with CPA membership growing 15% recently (Terratern). Soft skills—analytical thinking, attention to detail, and communication—are non-negotiable, while proficiency in tools like Xero, MYOB, SAP, Excel, and Power BI is critical (Jobs in Accounting). Want to highlight these skills? Use our Resume Builder to craft a standout resume tailored for accounting roles.

Top Employers Hiring Accountants in Australia

From global giants to local startups, Australia's accounting job market is vibrant. Top employers, as noted by Invensis, include:

• Big Four: Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG—prestigious firms with clear career paths.
• Major Corporates: BHP, Wesfarmers, Qantas, Telstra—large-scale accounting needs.
• Government: ATO, local councils, federal departments—stable with great benefits.
• Mid-Tier and Boutique: McGrathNicol, Hall Chadwick, Pitcher Partners—specialized roles.
• SMEs and Startups: Ideal for juniors seeking diverse experience.
• Remote Platforms: Upwork, Expert360—flexible freelance gigs.

Interested in working for Qantas? Check out our guide to Qantas careers for insights on aviation roles, including accounting positions.

Salary Ranges in 2025

Accounting salaries in 2025 are competitive, reflecting high demand. According to the Robert Half 2025 Salary Guide, here's what you can expect:

Certified accountants often command higher pay and faster promotions. For more on high-earning careers, see our guide to top-paying jobs in Australia.

Where to Find Accounting Jobs

Landing an accounting job starts with knowing where to look. Top platforms include:

• Job Boards: Seek, Indeed, Jora, LinkedIn—with SEEK listing over 6,000 roles (SEEK).
• Graduate Programs: Big Four and corporate programs for new grads (Prosple Australia).
• Recruitment Agencies: Hays, Robert Half, Michael Page—experts in accounting placements (Hays).
• Networking: LinkedIn and industry events for hidden opportunities.

Need job search tips? Our career blog offers strategies to stand out in Australia's job market.

Tips for Landing an Accounting Job

Securing an accounting role requires strategy. Here's how to shine, inspired by Bookkept:

• Earn CPA or CA credentials for a competitive edge.
• Tailor your resume with job-specific keywords using our Resume Builder.
• Prepare for behavioral and technical interviews, practicing case studies.
• Network via LinkedIn, uni contacts, and CPA/CA ANZ events.
• Gain experience through internships or temp roles.

For more application tips, check out our guide to administrative assistant jobs for resume and interview advice.

Remote and Freelance Accounting Opportunities

Remote accounting is booming, with hybrid and fully remote roles available. Platforms like Indeed and Jora list jobs from $54,000 to $130,000, covering tasks like BAS preparation and virtual CFO services (ZipRecruiter). Freelance platforms like Upwork and Expert360 connect accountants with clients, especially startups. Want more remote work options? Explore our guide to remote jobs in Australia.

For International Applicants

Accounting is on Australia's Skilled Occupation List, making it a prime career for international applicants. Visas like the Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) and Temporary Skill Shortage (Subclass 482) are accessible, with regional areas offering easier pathways (Nationwide Visas). CPA Australia and CA ANZ recognize overseas qualifications, and local internships boost employability (Pelican Migration). For more on visa-sponsored roles, see our guide to nursing jobs with visa sponsorship.

Career Growth and Future Outlook

The accounting field is set for growth, with demand holding strong despite automation. Emerging areas like data analytics and ESG accounting are creating new opportunities, and tech-savvy accountants are highly sought after (UPCEA). Pathways to senior roles like CFO or entrepreneurship are clear, with remote work adding flexibility (Future Firm). Interested in data analytics? Check out our guide to data analyst jobs for related career paths.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I need a degree to become an accountant in Australia? A Bachelor of Accounting or Commerce is typically required, but entry-level roles like bookkeeping may need only basic qualifications.
• What certifications boost accounting job prospects? CPA Australia, CA ANZ, and IPA certifications are highly valued and can lead to higher salaries and promotions.
• Can international accountants work in Australia? Yes, accounting is on the Skilled Occupation List, and CPA/CA ANZ recognize overseas qualifications, with visa options available.
• Are there remote accounting jobs in Australia? Yes, many roles offer hybrid or fully remote options, with freelance opportunities on platforms like Upwork.