Finance and Banking Bright Spots Amid the Doom and Gloom

The global finance sector has experienced waves of disruption over the past decade—through crises, market shifts, and digital transformation. But despite these changes, many areas within banking and finance continue to thrive, especially in Australia.

If you’re considering a career in finance or looking to future-proof your role in the industry, it’s important to know where the strongest opportunities lie. From compliance and superannuation to risk and relationship management, here are the most resilient and in-demand finance career paths in 2025.

1. Superannuation: A Resilient Cornerstone

Superannuation remains one of the most stable and in-demand segments of financial services. As Australians focus on retirement planning and fund performance, super funds are expanding their services—especially in member education and relationship management roles.

Opportunities exist in fund administration, financial advice, data analysis, and compliance. With over $3.5 trillion in super assets managed nationally, the sector continues to grow.

Explore finance courses that can lead to superannuation roles.

2. Life Insurance and Wealth Protection

Rising cost-of-living pressures and economic uncertainty have driven renewed interest in life insurance and personal wealth protection products. This has increased demand for underwriters, claims assessors, business development managers, and customer engagement specialists.

The digital shift also means tech-savvy professionals who understand fintech platforms and CRM systems are particularly valuable.

3. Risk Management: The Safest Bet

With increasing financial regulation and economic volatility, risk management has emerged as one of the most future-proof finance careers. Companies are actively hiring for:

• Operational and enterprise risk managers
• Market and credit risk analysts
• Regulatory risk compliance officers

Learn more about risk management training and how to enter this high-demand field.

4. Forensics, Compliance, and Financial Crime Prevention

Financial crime is on the rise, and organisations are under pressure to ensure compliance with evolving regulations. Forensic accounting, fraud prevention, AML (anti-money laundering) and KYC (know your customer) specialists are in high demand across banks, insurance firms, and consulting agencies.

Professionals with knowledge of Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) and ASIC guidelines are especially sought after.

5. Credit Analysis and Lending Controls

Following years of tighter lending conditions, credit assessment has become critical. Banks and lenders are hiring credit analysts and mortgage underwriters to manage risk and ensure clients meet tighter borrowing criteria.

These roles are ideal for candidates with financial analysis, lending, or mortgage processing experience—and they’re well supported by qualifications like a Diploma of Banking or Financial Services.

6. Transactional and Business Banking

Transactional banking—tailoring products and services to individual and business client needs—continues to perform well. This includes account management, payments, merchant services, and foreign exchange support.

Strong client service skills, digital literacy, and a track record in business development are key to landing these roles.

7. Relationship Management and Client Advisory

As financial institutions pivot to client retention and experience, skilled relationship managers are vital. These professionals manage high-value accounts, guide financial planning conversations, and generate new business opportunities.

Candidates with a deep understanding of financial products and excellent interpersonal skills are well positioned. Banking or advisory experience is typically required.

8. Accounting and Business Analysis

Accounting remains a cornerstone of financial services—and the need for efficiency and reporting transparency has never been greater. Business analysts, auditors, and management accountants continue to be hired in both private firms and the public sector.

Accounting is also central to finance transformation initiatives driven by AI and automation, creating roles for data-literate accountants and tech-savvy analysts.

Find accounting qualifications that can help launch or advance your finance career.

9. Regulatory Compliance and Governance

With tighter oversight by regulatory bodies like APRA and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), compliance remains one of the most stable finance career tracks.

Professionals with expertise in governance, legal frameworks, financial services law, or regulatory change management are increasingly essential to businesses seeking to avoid penalties and maintain integrity.

What This Means for Finance Jobseekers

If you’re considering a career change or upskilling within the finance sector, now’s a smart time to act. Many of the roles above are included on national skills shortage lists, which may also offer subsidised study and job-ready training options.

Explore courses that align with emerging finance roles:

• Finance and investment
• Risk and compliance
• Accounting and business analytics
• Business and relationship management

Ready to start? Browse nationally recognised online courses and take the next step toward a future-proof finance career.