How to Become A Public Accountant

Steps to Become a Public Accountant

Step 1: Complete a Bachelor Degree in Accounting or Commerce

Complete a Bachelor of Accounting, Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting), or an equal accredited degree at an Australian university. This takes 3 years full-time. The degree must cover financial accounting, management accounting, auditing, and tax. These subjects meet the entry needs of the major accounting bodies.

Step 2: Gain Supervised Work Experience

Complete at least two to three years of practical experience in an accounting role. Seek work at a public accounting firm, corporate finance team, or government agency. Hands-on experience builds the skills needed for certification. It is also a formal requirement for CPA Australia and CA ANZ membership.

Step 3: Join a Professional Accounting Body

Join one of Australia’s three recognised accounting bodies. Your options are CPA Australia, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ), or the Institute of Public Accountants (IPA). Start as an associate or provisional member to access resources, mentoring, and the path to full certification.

Step 4: Complete the CPA Program or CA Program

Enrol in either the CPA Program (CPA Australia) or the CA Program (CA ANZ). The CPA Program takes around 3 years part-time and includes six modules plus a mentored experience requirement. The CA Program combines the Graduate Diploma of Chartered Accounting (GradDipCA) with 3 years of mentored work. Both are delivered online and through your employer.

Step 5: Register with the Tax Practitioners Board

If you plan to offer tax agent services, register with the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB). This is required under the Tax Agent Services Act 2009. You need the right study qualifications plus at least 12 months of supervised work in the past 5 years. Renew your registration every 3 years.

Step 6: Complete Ongoing Training and Development

Keep your professional standing by completing continuing professional development (CPD) each year. CPA Australia requires 120 CPD hours over 3 years. CA ANZ requires at least 120 hours per 3-year cycle. CPD can include seminars, online courses, and work-based activity. Staying current with tax law and new rules is key to long-term success.

A public accountant’s day involves a mix of analysis, reporting, and client interaction. They start by reviewing financial statements and checking compliance with statutory requirements. Throughout the day, they prepare tax returns, conduct audits, and advise clients on financial strategy. They also spend time with clients, discussing their financial position and helping them make better decisions. Some days focus on setting up accounting systems or reviewing internal controls. The variety of tasks keeps the role fresh and challenging across the whole career.

Public accountants provide essential services that keep individuals and businesses on a sound financial footing. They are trusted advisors who help clients meet legal obligations while also building smarter financial strategies. The work is diverse and draws on both technical expertise and strong interpersonal skills.

• Assisting with budgetary and accounting policies: helping organisations plan and manage their finances well.
• Preparing financial statements: creating clear, accurate reports for boards, management, and regulators.
• Conducting financial investigations: running audits and preparing reports on mergers, fraud, and insolvency.
• Examining operating costs: analysing income and spending to find savings and improve efficiency.
• Providing assurance on financial reports: checking accuracy and legal compliance for all key financial documents.
• Advising on financial and tax matters: guiding clients on structures, plans, and ways to reduce tax.
• Preparing tax returns: filing returns for individuals and organisations on time and to the letter of the law.
• Liaising with financial institutions: setting up funds management arrangements with banks and brokers.
• Implementing accounting systems: setting up and maintaining software to keep financial records accurate and up to date.
• Maintaining internal controls: making sure systems are in place to protect assets and prevent errors.
• Appraising cash flow and financial risk: checking the financial viability of capital investment projects.

• Strong analytical and numerical skills
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Clear written and verbal communication
• Proficiency in accounting software
• Understanding of Australian tax laws and regulations
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
• Problem-solving and critical thinking
• Ethical judgment and professional integrity
• Teamwork and collaboration
• Time management and self-organisation
• Adaptability to regulatory and technology changes
• Client relationship management
• Financial reporting and analysis
• Knowledge of auditing processes
• Ability to interpret and apply financial data