Internal Auditor Resume Examples and How to Write
Struggling to secure internal audit positions despite having strong analytical skills and deep understanding of risk management principles? You’re not alone. Many qualified audit professionals across Australia find themselves overlooked for internal audit roles at ASX-listed companies, government agencies, and multinational corporations, wondering why their technical expertise and compliance knowledge isn’t translating into opportunities in this critical governance function.
Australia’s internal audit sector is experiencing heightened demand as organisations face increasing regulatory scrutiny, cybersecurity threats, and operational complexity. Whether you’re transitioning from external audit at firms like Deloitte Australia, moving from risk management roles, or completing professional studies through institutions like CPA Australia, your resume needs to demonstrate both technical competency and the strategic thinking that Australian boards and audit committees expect from internal audit professionals.
This comprehensive guide will transform how you present your internal audit credentials, providing you with industry-specific strategies to showcase your risk assessment capabilities, highlight your process improvement achievements, and demonstrate the independent assurance and advisory skills that position you as the trusted internal audit professional Australian organisations need to navigate complex business risks and governance challenges.
Internal Auditor Resume (Text Version)
DAVID THOMSON
Internal Auditor
Mobile: 0412 567 890
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/davidthomsonaudit
Location: Sydney, NSW
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Results-driven internal auditor with 7+ years of experience providing independent assurance and advisory services across financial services, manufacturing, and government sectors. Successfully completed 85+ audit engagements covering operational, financial, IT, and compliance risks with 100% on-time delivery and actionable recommendations that generated $2.3M in cost savings and process improvements. Expert in risk assessment, control evaluation, and governance frameworks with deep knowledge of Australian regulatory requirements and international auditing standards.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Senior Internal Auditor | Commonwealth Bank of Australia | March 2021 – Present
• Lead comprehensive audit engagements across retail banking, business banking, and wealth management divisions covering operational and compliance risks
• Conduct risk-based audits of critical processes including credit management, anti-money laundering, and customer data protection systems
• Identify and assess internal control deficiencies, providing actionable recommendations that improved control effectiveness by 35%
• Collaborate with senior management and audit committee members to communicate findings and ensure timely remediation of audit issues
• Supervise junior auditors and provide training on audit methodologies, sampling techniques, and regulatory compliance requirements
Internal Auditor | Woolworths Group | June 2018 – February 2021
• Performed operational audits across retail stores, distribution centres, and corporate support functions covering $60B+ annual operations
• Evaluated effectiveness of internal controls over financial reporting, inventory management, and supply chain processes
• Implemented data analytics techniques to enhance audit efficiency, reducing sample sizes by 40% whilst improving detection capabilities
• Coordinated with external auditors and regulatory bodies during compliance reviews and statutory audit processes
• Developed audit work programs and testing procedures for new business initiatives and system implementations
Audit Associate | Ernst & Young Australia | January 2016 – May 2018
• Conducted statutory audits for ASX-listed companies across diverse industries including mining, retail, and professional services
• Performed detailed testing of revenue recognition, inventory valuation, and complex financial instruments under Australian Accounting Standards
• Gained comprehensive understanding of corporate governance, internal controls, and regulatory compliance requirements
• Utilised audit software including ACL, IDEA, and Teammate to perform data analysis and documentation of audit procedures
• Supported senior managers with client relationship management and business development activities
Graduate Auditor | BDO Australia | February 2014 – December 2015
• Participated in comprehensive graduate training program covering auditing standards, professional ethics, and technical competencies
• Assisted with audit planning, risk assessment, and substantive testing procedures for medium-sized enterprise clients
• Developed foundational skills in internal control evaluation, sampling methodologies, and audit documentation standards
• Contributed to audit quality reviews and continuous improvement initiatives within the audit practice
• Completed professional development requirements and achieved strong performance ratings across all engagement reviews
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) | University of Sydney | 2013
• Major: Accounting with minor in Finance
• Final Project: “Internal Audit Function Effectiveness in Australian Listed Companies” – awarded High Distinction
• Academic Achievement: Dean’s List recognition, Accounting Excellence Award
PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
• Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) – Institute of Internal Auditors (2019)
• Certified Practising Accountant (CPA) – CPA Australia (2017)
• Certificate in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA) – Institute of Internal Auditors (2022)
TECHNICAL SKILLS
• Audit Software: ACL, IDEA, TeamMate, AuditBoard
• Data Analytics: SQL, Power BI, Tableau, Advanced Excel
• Risk Frameworks: COSO, ISO 31000, COBIT
• Regulatory Standards: AASB, APRA, ASIC, SOX compliance
• Process Mapping: Visio, Lucidchart, process documentation
KEY ACHIEVEMENTS
• Identified control weaknesses resulting in $1.8M annual cost savings through process automation recommendations
• Led IT audit project that enhanced cybersecurity controls and achieved 95% remediation rate within 6 months
• Maintained 100% audit completion rate with average stakeholder satisfaction score of 4.7/5.0
• Recognition Award for Audit Excellence – Institute of Internal Auditors Australia (2023)
What is The Best Format for an Internal Auditor Resume?
The reverse chronological format is ideal for internal auditor resumes as it clearly demonstrates your progression through audit roles and showcases your increasing levels of responsibility in risk assessment and assurance activities. This format is particularly effective in Australia’s audit profession where employers value steady career development and proven experience across different audit engagements and industry sectors.
Use professional, trustworthy fonts like Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri that convey reliability and attention to detail. Your name should be prominent at 16-18 points, section headings at 12-14 points, and body text at 11-12 points for optimal readability. Maintain consistent 1-inch margins and ensure adequate white space to create a clean, organised presentation that reflects your methodical approach to audit work.
Always submit as a PDF unless specifically requested otherwise, as this preserves formatting and demonstrates your professional standards and attention to detail. Your resume should include these essential sections:
Header: Include your full name, professional title (Internal Auditor), mobile number, professional email address, LinkedIn profile, and location (city and state).
Professional Summary: A compelling 3-4 line overview highlighting your audit experience, specialisations, and key achievements in risk assessment and assurance.
Experience: Detail your work history in reverse chronological order, focusing on internal audit, external audit, and risk management roles.
Education: Include relevant accounting, finance, or business qualifications that provide the foundation for audit competency.
Other sections: Add professional qualifications (CIA essential), technical skills, and key achievements that demonstrate your audit expertise and professional development.
What Experience Should Be on Your Internal Auditor Resume?
Your experience section should demonstrate your growth in audit expertise whilst highlighting quantifiable achievements that show your impact on risk mitigation, process improvement, and governance enhancement. Focus on roles that showcase your analytical capabilities, independence in forming audit opinions, and ability to communicate findings effectively to senior management and audit committees.
Australian employers particularly value internal auditors who understand local regulatory environments, can adapt audit approaches to diverse business contexts, and demonstrate both technical competency and commercial awareness. Emphasise experiences that show your knowledge of Australian compliance requirements, ability to work across different industry sectors, and track record of adding value through audit recommendations.
CORRECT EXAMPLE:
Senior Internal Auditor | ANZ Banking Group | April 2020 – Present
• Lead risk-based audit engagements across retail, commercial, and institutional banking divisions, evaluating controls over $950B+ in assets
• Conduct comprehensive audits of credit risk management, operational processes, and regulatory compliance frameworks including APRA requirements
• Identify control deficiencies and provide actionable recommendations resulting in 42% improvement in control effectiveness ratings
• Present audit findings to executive management and Board Audit Committee, ensuring clear communication of risks and remediation priorities
• Mentor team of 4 junior auditors on audit methodologies, professional standards, and stakeholder management best practices
INCORRECT EXAMPLE:
Internal Auditor | Bank | 2020 – Present
• Performed audits of different business areas
• Checked controls and processes
• Wrote audit reports and recommendations
• Worked with management on audit issues
• Participated in various audit activities
Entry-Level Internal Auditor Resume Samples [Experience]
For entry-level internal auditors, focus on relevant experience that demonstrates analytical thinking, attention to detail, and understanding of business processes and controls. Include external audit experience, risk management roles, financial analysis positions, or compliance work that shows your foundation for internal audit responsibilities.
CORRECT EXAMPLE:
Graduate Internal Auditor | Telstra Corporation | January 2024 – Present
• Participate in comprehensive internal audit graduate program covering operational, financial, and IT audit methodologies
• Support senior auditors with audit planning, control testing, and documentation across telecommunications and technology operations
• Conduct detailed testing of revenue assurance, customer billing, and network infrastructure controls under supervision
• Utilise data analytics tools including ACL and Power BI to identify process improvements and control enhancement opportunities
• Gain exposure to audit committee reporting and stakeholder communication whilst developing professional audit competencies
INCORRECT EXAMPLE:
Junior Auditor | Telecom Company | 2024 – Present
• Learning about internal audit work
• Helping senior auditors with tasks
• Attending training sessions
• Working on audit projects
• Developing audit skills
How to Write the Education Section for your Internal Auditor Resume
Education is particularly important for internal auditors as it demonstrates the analytical, accounting, and business knowledge foundation essential for effective risk assessment and control evaluation. Australian employers value degrees in accounting, finance, business, or related fields from recognised universities, as these provide the theoretical framework for understanding complex business operations and control environments.
Include relevant degrees, professional development, and academic achievements that show your commitment to continuous learning and technical competency. Highlight coursework, projects, or research that relates to audit, risk management, or governance topics.
Internal Auditor Resume Example [Education]
Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting & Finance) | Monash University | 2018
• Double Major: Accounting and Finance
• Capstone Project: “Risk Management Framework Effectiveness in Australian Listed Companies” – awarded High Distinction
• Relevant Coursework: Auditing and Assurance, Corporate Governance, Risk Management, Business Law, Information Systems
• Academic Achievement: First Class Honours, Dean’s List 2017-2018
How to Write the Skills Section for your Internal Auditor Resume
The skills section is crucial for internal auditors as it demonstrates your technical competencies, analytical capabilities, and knowledge of audit methodologies essential for providing independent assurance and advisory services. Include 12-16 skills that directly relate to internal audit work, balancing technical audit skills with business knowledge and communication abilities that enable effective stakeholder engagement.
Focus on skills that are in demand across Australia’s diverse regulatory and business environment, including knowledge of local compliance requirements, proficiency with audit technology, and understanding of contemporary risk management frameworks. Employers particularly value auditors who combine technical expertise with commercial awareness and strong communication skills.
Internal Auditor Resume Skills (Hard Skills)
• Risk assessment and control evaluation
• Audit planning and program development
• Internal control testing and sampling
• Data analytics and audit technology (ACL, IDEA)
• Financial statement analysis and review
• Regulatory compliance assessment (APRA, ASIC, SOX)
• Business process mapping and documentation
• IT audit and cybersecurity assessment
• Fraud detection and investigation techniques
• Quality assurance and continuous monitoring
• Governance framework evaluation
• Management reporting and presentation
• Statistical analysis and data interpretation
• Project management and audit supervision
Internal Auditor Resume Skills (Soft Skills)
• Strong analytical and critical thinking
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Independence and professional scepticism
• Attention to detail and quality focus
• Stakeholder relationship management
• Problem-solving and root cause analysis
• Time management and project coordination
• Adaptability to changing business environments
• Ethical reasoning and professional judgment
• Team collaboration and mentoring
• Presentation and public speaking abilities
• Cultural awareness and sensitivity
• Continuous learning and professional development
• Stress management and deadline adherence
How to pick the best Internal Auditor skills:
1. **Review professional audit standards** to identify core competencies expected of internal auditors by regulatory bodies and professional institutes
2. **Prioritise risk and control skills** that demonstrate your ability to evaluate business processes and governance frameworks
3. **Include technology proficiency** that shows your capability with modern audit tools and data analytics techniques
4. **Balance technical and communication skills** to demonstrate both audit expertise and ability to influence stakeholders
5. **Focus on skills you can validate** with specific examples from audit engagements or professional certifications
6. **Consider industry-specific knowledge** relevant to sectors where you have audit experience or career interests
Internal Auditor Resume Examples [Skills]
• Risk-Based Audit Planning: Developed comprehensive audit plans for 25+ engagements annually, achieving 98% completion rate whilst optimising resource allocation
• Control Testing Excellence: Conducted detailed control evaluation across diverse business processes, identifying 150+ control improvements with 85% management acceptance rate
• Data Analytics Proficiency: Utilised ACL and IDEA software to analyse large datasets, improving audit efficiency by 45% and enhancing detection capabilities
• Stakeholder Communication: Presented audit findings to C-suite executives and audit committees, maintaining average satisfaction rating of 4.8/5.0 across all engagements
Should I Add Bonus Sections to My Internal Auditor Resume?
Additional sections can significantly strengthen your internal auditor resume by demonstrating professional development, industry expertise, and commitment to the internal audit profession. These sections are particularly valuable in Australia’s audit environment where continuous learning, professional certification, and industry engagement are highly regarded by employers and audit committees.
Consider including Professional Certifications which are essential in internal audit, particularly CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) designation and other relevant certifications like CRMA or CISA. Professional Development shows your commitment to staying current with audit standards and emerging risks.
Industry Recognition or Awards provide validation of your audit excellence and professional contributions. Speaking Engagements or Publications demonstrate thought leadership. Professional Associations show active engagement with the internal audit community and commitment to professional standards.
Internal Auditor Resume Examples [Other Sections]
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATIONS
• Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) – Institute of Internal Auditors Global (2020)
• Certified Practising Accountant (CPA) – CPA Australia (2018)
• Certificate in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA) – Institute of Internal Auditors (2022)
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
• Advanced Data Analytics for Auditors – IIA Australia Professional Development (2023)
• Cybersecurity Audit Techniques – ISACA Sydney Chapter (2023)
• ESG Auditing and Assurance Workshop – CPA Australia (2022)
INDUSTRY RECOGNITION
• Outstanding Achievement Award – Institute of Internal Auditors Australia (2023)
• Young Professional Excellence Recognition – CPA Australia NSW (2021)
• Best Practice Innovation Award – Commonwealth Bank Internal Audit (2022)
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS
• Member – Institute of Internal Auditors Australia (IIA-Australia)
• Professional Member – CPA Australia
• Associate Member – Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA)
ACHIEVEMENTS
• Good audit results
• Completed training courses
• Member of professional groups
• Received recognition
OTHER
• Have certifications
• Attend seminars
• Work well with people
Tip: You can include relevant volunteer experience like treasurer roles, financial oversight for community organisations, or pro bono audit work that demonstrates your commitment to governance and controls beyond paid employment. Technical interests like fraud investigation or forensic accounting can also add value.
How to write an Internal Auditor Resume Objective or Resume Summary
A compelling professional summary is essential for internal auditors as it immediately establishes your audit competency, demonstrates your understanding of risk and governance frameworks, and communicates your value proposition to audit committees and senior management. This 3-4 line section should capture your audit experience, key specialisations, professional qualifications, and what makes you valuable in providing independent assurance and advisory services.
Focus on quantifiable achievements that demonstrate your impact on risk mitigation, control improvement, and organisational governance. Include specific audit expertise and professional credentials that align with employer needs and industry standards.
• **Quantify your audit experience** with specific numbers of engagements completed, risks assessed, or controls evaluated
• **Highlight key specialisations** such as financial audits, operational reviews, IT audits, or compliance assessments
• **Include professional qualifications** like CIA, CPA, or other relevant certifications that establish credibility
• **Reference value-added outcomes** such as cost savings identified, process improvements, or risk reductions achieved
• **Mention stakeholder engagement** and communication capabilities essential for audit effectiveness
Internal Auditor Resume Summary Examples
CORRECT EXAMPLE:
Certified Internal Auditor with 9+ years of comprehensive audit experience across financial services, retail, and manufacturing sectors, successfully completing 120+ risk-based audit engagements with consistent on-time delivery and actionable recommendations. Proven expertise in operational audits, financial reporting controls, and IT risk assessments with track record of identifying $3.2M+ in cost savings and process improvements. Deep knowledge of Australian regulatory requirements including APRA, ASIC, and SOX compliance with advanced proficiency in data analytics and audit technology. Strong stakeholder communication skills with experience presenting findings to Board audit committees and C-suite executives.
INCORRECT EXAMPLE:
Experienced internal auditor with background in risk assessment and control testing. Good analytical skills and knowledge of auditing standards. Looking for internal audit position where I can use my experience to help organisation with risk management and compliance.
Entry-level candidates should focus on relevant education, professional development, and any audit-related experience that demonstrates their foundation for internal audit work. Highlight analytical capabilities, attention to detail, and commitment to professional standards and continuous learning.
Entry-Level Internal Auditor Resume Summary Examples
CORRECT EXAMPLE:
Detail-oriented audit professional with Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) and 2+ years of external audit experience providing strong foundation for internal audit responsibilities. Demonstrated analytical capabilities through completion of statutory audits for ASX-listed companies whilst gaining comprehensive understanding of internal controls, risk assessment, and governance frameworks. Currently pursuing CIA certification with proven commitment to professional development and audit excellence. Strong communication skills and ability to work independently whilst building effective relationships with stakeholders across diverse business functions.
INCORRECT EXAMPLE:
Recent accounting graduate looking for entry-level internal audit position. Have some audit experience and good analytical skills. Want to develop career in internal audit and learn about risk management.
How to Update Your LinkedIn Profile When Updating Your Internal Auditor Resume
LinkedIn profile alignment with your resume is crucial for internal auditors, as the platform serves as a key channel for professional networking, industry engagement, and career development within Australia’s audit and risk management community. Research shows that 82% of Australian finance and audit professionals use LinkedIn for career advancement and professional development, making profile optimisation essential for internal audit roles.
Your LinkedIn profile should complement your resume whilst leveraging the platform’s capabilities for professional thought leadership, audit industry engagement, and networking with senior risk and audit professionals. This strategic alignment helps establish your expertise in the audit community and connects you with audit leaders, risk managers, and governance professionals across Australia.
LinkedIn Headline Optimisation for Internal Auditors
EFFECTIVE EXAMPLES:
“Internal Auditor | CIA Certified | Risk Assessment & Control Evaluation | Financial Services | Sydney”
“Senior Internal Auditor | Operational & IT Risk Specialist | CPA | Available for New Opportunities”
“Certified Internal Auditor | Governance & Compliance Expert | 8+ Years Experience | Melbourne”
INEFFECTIVE EXAMPLES:
“Internal Auditor”
“Audit Professional”
“Risk Management”
LinkedIn Summary vs Resume Summary: Key Differences
Your LinkedIn summary should adopt a more conversational, first-person tone whilst expanding on your audit philosophy, approach to risk assessment, and perspective on the evolving role of internal audit in organisational governance. Unlike your resume’s metrics-focused summary, LinkedIn allows 2,000+ characters to share your professional journey and insights about contemporary audit challenges.
Include your thoughts about emerging risks in Australian business environments, your approach to stakeholder engagement, and your commitment to audit quality and professional standards. Use relevant hashtags like #InternalAudit, #RiskManagement, #Governance, or #CorporateGovernance to improve discoverability among audit professionals and business leaders.
Showcasing Internal Auditor Experience on LinkedIn
LinkedIn’s experience section allows for richer storytelling than traditional resume constraints. Expand your audit achievements to include the business context of your engagements, the strategic importance of risks assessed, and the collaborative relationships built with audit clients and stakeholders.
Use LinkedIn’s project feature to showcase significant audit engagements, process improvement initiatives, or risk assessment projects you’ve led (whilst maintaining appropriate confidentiality). This approach demonstrates your audit capabilities and professional growth trajectory.
LinkedIn Skills and Endorsements for Internal Auditors
Prioritise audit-specific skills such as “Internal Auditing,” “Risk Assessment,” “Internal Controls,” “Compliance,” “Data Analysis,” and “Financial Analysis” alongside broader business skills. Actively seek endorsements from audit managers, business stakeholders, and professional colleagues you’ve worked with.
Complete LinkedIn skill assessments for relevant areas like “Financial Analysis,” “Risk Management,” and “Microsoft Excel” to earn verified skill badges. These assessments provide additional credibility and help demonstrate your technical competencies to potential employers.
LinkedIn Profile Tips for Australian Internal Auditors
Engage with Australian audit content by following the Institute of Internal Auditors Australia, CPA Australia, and major audit firms. Share insights about risk management trends, regulatory updates, or audit best practices to demonstrate your ongoing professional engagement and thought leadership.
Connect strategically with senior audit professionals, risk managers, and governance leaders across major Australian organisations. Join audit and risk management groups such as “Internal Audit Professionals Australia,” “Risk Management Australia,” or industry-specific audit networks to expand your professional network and stay current with industry developments.
Creating an exceptional internal auditor resume requires balancing technical audit competency with business acumen, analytical rigor with effective communication, and independent assurance capabilities with collaborative stakeholder relationships. Your resume serves as the critical first impression that demonstrates your ability to provide valuable risk insights and governance assurance to Australian organisations.
Remember that Australia’s internal audit profession values professionals who combine technical audit expertise with commercial understanding, independence with collaborative engagement, and proven audit competency with continuous professional development. Your resume should reflect these qualities whilst clearly demonstrating your unique audit capabilities and commitment to professional excellence.
As you advance your internal audit career, ensure your resume works effectively alongside with our compelling cover letter resources that expands on your audit philosophy and commitment to governance excellence. This combination will position you strongly for success in Australia’s dynamic and increasingly important internal audit profession.
For ongoing professional development and industry connections, consider engaging with the Institute of Internal Auditors Australia and exploring advanced audit training opportunities through professional bodies. These relationships, combined with a strategically crafted resume, will accelerate your success in Australia’s essential and rewarding internal audit sector.
