Scope of Accountant Jobs in Australia

Accountant

2025-07-31

If you’re thinking about a career as an accountant in Australia, the good news is that the future looks very promising! Thanks to a strong economy and rapid advancements in technology, the demand for skilled accountants is on the rise. In fact, job opportunities for accountants are expected to grow by about 9.2% by 2026, with experts predicting a shortage of around 58,000 accountants by 2033. There is a wide-open door for both fresh graduates and seasoned professionals looking to build or advance their careers. What’s more, the modern accountant’s role is changing; today’s accountants need to be savvy with both finance and technology.

What Does It Mean to Be an Accountant in Australia?

Traditionally, an accountant has been a trusted figure in the world of business, responsible for managing financial records, ensuring companies follow tax laws, preparing reports, and advising on money matters. Because of this vital role, qualified accountants have always been in high demand, not just in the corporate world but also in government and non-profit sectors.

The Australian Government’s Job Outlook report highlights that this demand is only expected to grow, especially as many current accountants approach retirement. This creates a fantastic chance for newcomers to step into a career that offers good pay, job security, and clear paths for advancement. Plus, accounting isn’t just about crunching numbers anymore; it’s becoming a strategic role where accountants work closely with business leaders to drive success.

Why Are Accountants Needed Across So Many Industries?

One of the biggest perks of choosing accounting as a career in Australia is its incredible versatility. Accountants are needed everywhere, from banks and hospitals to government offices, retail shops, construction sites, and mining companies. This diversity means you can find a niche that truly fits your interests and skills.

Australia’s growing connections with the global market also mean accountants who understand international tax laws, cross-border financial rules, and complex regulations are especially valuable. Specialists like these not only enjoy better job security but often earn higher salaries too.

How Technology is Changing Accounting

Accounting has come a long way from just bookkeeping and ledger entries. Nowadays, technology plays a huge role in how accountants work. Modern accountants use IT systems and digital tools daily to get their jobs done more efficiently.

For example, automation cuts down time spent on repetitive tasks like entering data or matching accounts. Cloud accounting software allows real-time access to financial information from anywhere, making decision-making faster and more accurate. Plus, data analytics tools help accountants dig into large amounts of data to spot trends and provide smart advice.

Because accountants handle sensitive financial information, understanding cybersecurity is essential to protect that data from cyberattacks. Additionally, many accountants are now using artificial intelligence and machine learning to automate complex tasks like fraud detection and risk evaluation. In short, the accountant’s toolkit now includes not only numbers but cutting-edge tech, and embracing this change is key to success.

New and Exciting Career Paths Where Accounting Meets IT

The blend of accounting and technology has created some exciting new roles that go beyond the traditional accountant job:

  • Fintech Accountant: Work with financial technology companies to ensure their digital products are financially sound and meet compliance rules. This role blends accounting with software development teams.
  • Forensic Accountant: Use data analysis and IT tools to hunt down fraud and financial crimes. These accountants play a crucial role in investigations and legal cases.
  • Digital Compliance Specialist: Help companies navigate financial regulations in a digital world, requiring a deep understanding of both IT systems and finance laws.
  • Sustainability Reporting Accountant: Track and report on environmental and social impact metrics alongside financial data using advanced IT platforms—an emerging and important area as ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) becomes critical.

These evolving roles offer accountants the chance to work on cutting-edge challenges while boosting career growth and salary potential.

From Bookkeeping to Strategic Advisor: How Skills Are Evolving

The job of an accountant has transformed dramatically. Beyond managing financial records, accountants today play an important part in shaping business strategies. This shift means accountants need new skills that combine financial know-how with technology.

To stay relevant, accountants are learning and using:

  • Popular accounting software like Xero, MYOB, and SAP.
  • Data analytics and visualization tools such as Power BI and Tableau to make sense of complex financial info.
  • Programming languages like Python or R to build custom financial models.
  • Cloud computing and database management skills.
  • Cybersecurity principles to keep data safe.

By mastering these skills, accountants can offer valuable insights that help businesses make smarter decisions.

 Education and Learning: Staying Ahead in a Digital World

To meet evolving demands, aspiring accountants in Australia are increasingly combining financial studies with technology training. Professional organizations, universities, and training providers now offer programs blending these disciplines.

For example:

  • CPA Australia and the Institute of Public Accountants (IPA) have included technology-focused modules in their certification requirements.
  • Many short courses teach data analytics, cloud accounting, and cybersecurity specifically for accountants.
  • Partnerships with the Australian Computer Society (ACS) provide workshops and certifications to build IT skills tailored for finance professionals.

Because technology changes fast, ongoing learning is essential for accountants to stay competitive and advance their careers.

If you are looking to acquire these in-demand skills, Extratech offers specialized training programs designed for finance professionals eager to stay ahead in the digital age.

How Technology Skills Can Boost Your Earnings as an Accountant

Accountants in Australia already enjoy competitive salaries, but those who bring strong IT skills to the table often earn even more. Data-savvy accountants, experts in automation, cybersecurity professionals, and fintech specialists tend to command salaries above the average.

Take forensic accountants and digital compliance experts: they are prized for their blend of finance and tech expertise and typically enjoy premium pay. Similarly, fintech accountants working in innovative startups benefit from both high rewards and dynamic work environments.

Investing time in developing IT skills is a smart move to increase your career potential and financial rewards. Extratech's targeted courses can help you gain practical experience with the latest technology, giving you an edge in today's competitive market.

Challenges That Come with Embracing Technology

Of course, using technology in accounting isn’t without its hurdles. Accountants must keep learning to keep up with ever-changing tools and systems. They also face increased responsibility to protect sensitive financial data from cyber threats.

Another challenge is balancing trust in automated systems with professional judgment; over-relying on technology can cause mistakes. Plus, ethical concerns around AI-driven decisions require accountants to uphold transparency and accountability.

Success in this evolving field comes from being adaptable, constantly learning, and maintaining strong professional values.

The Digital Future of Accounting in Australia

The career outlook for accountants in Australia is bright and increasingly digital. Technology is shifting accounting from a manual, compliance-focused job to a strategic, tech-driven profession.

Accountants who combine financial expertise with IT skills will enjoy strong job security, a broader range of career options, and a seat at the table in business leadership. Ongoing support from government and industry programs to build digital skills means this trend will continue to grow.

The future is full of opportunity, for those ready to learn and innovate.

Conclusion: Combining Accounting and IT for a Rewarding Career in Australia

To sum up, the scope for accountant jobs in Australia is vast and growing, especially as accounting and IT become more intertwined. With demand strong across industries and exciting new tech-focused roles emerging, there has never been a better time to pursue this career.

By developing both financial knowledge and technological skills, accountants can become invaluable players in Australia’s digital economy. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upskill, embracing this blend will open doors to a sustainable, rewarding future in accounting.

Explore Extratech's training programs to start your journey toward becoming a tech-savvy accountant ready for the digital transformation of the profession.

Does Extratech’s Training Help Accountants with IT Certification Exams

Absolutely! Extratech’s 12-week Cloud, Network, and System Support Training is thoughtfully designed to support accountants who want to enhance their technical skills and prepare for globally recognized certification exams such as CompTIA A+, Network+, CCNA, and Microsoft Azure. The curriculum is closely aligned with official exam blueprints, ensuring that every lesson, hands-on lab, and mock exam directly supports the competencies accountants need to thrive in today’s tech-driven financial roles in Australia.

You will master essential theory and gain practical experience through simulated environments and real-world scenarios that accountants increasingly encounter, such as supporting cloud-based financial platforms and implementing secure systems. Expert instructors break down complex concepts into beginner-friendly modules, providing revision guides and personalized mentoring so you can confidently advance your accounting career with IT credentials.

Moreover, these certifications are highly valued by Australian employers across finance, government, and consulting, proving your readiness to take on more technical, hybrid finance and IT roles and helping future-proof your position in the evolving job market.

Does Extratech’s Training Support Job Hunting?

Yes, and it provides far more than just the basics! Extratech’s program includes a robust career development module that’s particularly beneficial for accountants seeking IT-infused roles:

  • Personalized resume and cover letter assistance, using AI to emphasize tech and finance skills
  • LinkedIn profile optimization to highlight your multidisciplinary expertise
  • Strategic job search planning, tailored for finance and IT settings
  • Interview preparation for both technical and behavioural accounting and IT questions
  • Guidance in professional business communication across digital and traditional platforms

This holistic support ensures that individuals transitioning to tech-focused positions are not only technically ready but also marketable and visible to top employers in Australia’s dynamic accounting sector.

Do Accountants Need Prior IT Experience?

No prior IT experience is necessary! Extratech’s training is accessible to absolute beginners, including accountants who are new to technology. The course starts with foundational IT concepts before moving into more advanced topics, ensuring you acquire the practical knowledge required to complement your financial expertise with valuable IT skills.

Which Certifications Will Accountants Be Prepared For?

By completing Extratech’s program, you’ll be ready to sit for several globally recognized certifications that Australian employers value, including:
·    CompTIA A+
·    CompTIA Network+
·    Cisco CCNA
·    Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)
·    Microsoft Azure Administrator (AZ-104)
·    Microsoft 365 Fundamentals (MS-900)
·    ITIL v4 Foundation

These certifications validate your ability to manage and support the IT systems and platforms that accountants are expected to navigate in Australia’s digital financial landscape.

Why Extratech’s Training Is The Right Choice for Australian Accountants

Beginner-friendly: No prior IT background required, ideal for accountants keen to expand their horizons.
Job-ready in 12 weeks: Accelerated curriculum so accountants can quickly apply new IT skills.
Flexible learning: Choose online, in-person, or hybrid, whatever fits your accounting workload.
Hands-on training: Work directly with tech tools relevant to accounting, like cloud systems and ERP platforms.
Industry alignment: Course content matches Cisco, Microsoft, and CompTIA standards, valued in the Australian job market.
Expert instruction: Learn from leaders in tech and finance, including expert mentor Binod Kunwar.
Career coaching: Tailored support to integrate IT certifications with your existing accounting credentials.
Mock interviews: Practical sessions for accounting and tech job interviews.
Ongoing support: Continued assistance until you land a tech-enhanced role in accounting or finance.
AI-powered job search: Optimize your application strategy and personal branding.
Exposure to enterprise tools: Get hands-on with platforms accountants use, like Azure, VMware, and Windows Server.
Experience with ticketing systems: Learn to manage client requests with Zendesk, KACE, and others.
Guided mentorship: Enjoy personalized support throughout your learning journey.
Flexible payment: Accessible payment plans for every accountant’s budget.
On-demand materials: Review any lesson anytime, perfect for busy professionals.
Community Impact: Part of your fee helps sustainable projects, like Extratech’s Oval International Cricket Stadium in Nepal.
Small classes: Get the personal attention required to address specific accounting and IT challenges.
Post-course career guidance: Support continues even after graduation!
Future-proof career: Enter a hybrid accounting and IT sector growing more than 17% annually in Australia.

Extratech’s comprehensive approach means you’ll not only gain in-demand IT certifications but also stand out in Australia’s competitive accounting job market, ready for more technical, higher-paying, and future-oriented opportunities. Whether you’re starting in accounting or aiming to advance with digital expertise, this training is your pathway to becoming a modern, job-ready accountant in Australia.