Cpa Offers Uni Undergrads A ‘big Break’

For students aiming to launch careers in accounting, business, or finance, joining CPA Australia early can open doors to scholarships, competitions, and mentoring that go far beyond the classroom.

While The CPA Big Break Project—once a flagship competition encouraging undergraduates to solve real-world business challenges—last ran in 2012, CPA Australia continues to support future professionals through student memberships, networking events, scholarships, and development programs that can help you build credibility and connections early in your career.

What Is CPA Australia and Why Should You Join?

CPA Australia is one of the world’s largest accounting bodies, supporting over 170,000 members across 100+ countries. Becoming a CPA opens up global career pathways in business, finance, government, and beyond.

As a university student, you can join CPA Australia as a student member for free. This gives you access to:

• Scholarships and competitions (depending on availability)
• Mentoring programs and career events
• Resources to support your study and career planning
• Networking opportunities with industry professionals

Joining CPA Australia while you’re still studying also puts you on a faster track to begin the CPA Program after graduation—a key step for becoming a recognised accounting professional in Australia and internationally.

Looking Back: The Legacy of The CPA Big Break Project

From 2009 to 2012, The CPA Big Break Project was an innovative annual competition where undergraduate students teamed up to tackle real business problems faced by not-for-profits such as Make-A-Wish and The Big Issue. It challenged students to demonstrate both critical thinking and creativity, with prizes including cash and CPA Program scholarships.

Past winners, like Ben Abraham and Matt Dawson, say the experience helped build their professional confidence, strategic thinking, and visibility among key industry players.

“Just having the chance to put your ideas in front of some of these big players—it’s a great opportunity,” said Abraham at the time. Their winning concept: partnering with sporting clubs to boost subscription sales for The Big Issue in regional NSW.

While the Big Break Project itself is no longer running, its spirit lives on through CPA Australia’s continued support for emerging talent across universities and TAFEs in Australia and New Zealand.

Start Building Your Accounting or Business Career Now

Whether you’re just beginning your commerce degree or planning your post-grad path, now’s the time to invest in your professional future. Here’s how:

• Join CPA Australia as a student member to access free resources and events
• Explore accounting, business, or finance courses to prepare for CPA Program eligibility
• Connect with mentors and attend networking events through your university or CPA’s student programs

Competitions and professional development programs may come and go, but one thing remains: building early connections and experience in your industry gives you a valuable edge.