High-Paying Accounting Jobs: Australia is one of the top destinations for accounting professionals seeking lucrative opportunities.
With its robust economy and increasing demand for financial expertise, the accounting sector is expected to experience steady growth in 2025.
Whether you’re a recent graduate or an experienced accountant, there are numerous high-paying roles to consider in this dynamic industry.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the most lucrative accounting jobs in Australia for 2025, discuss their average salaries, and provide insights into the qualifications and skills required to excel in these roles.
High-Paying Accounting Jobs in Australia 2025
1. Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Average Salary: AUD 300,000–AUD 500,000 per year
Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) hold one of the highest-ranking accounting positions in any organisation.
As financial strategists of companies, CFOs are responsible for managing financial risks, planning budgets, and ensuring the overall financial health of a business.
Key Responsibilities:
- Overseeing financial planning and analysis
- Managing company budgets and forecasting
- Ensuring compliance with accounting regulations
- Developing strategies to increase company profitability
Qualifications and Skills:
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field
- MBA or CPA (Certified Practicing Accountant) certification
- Exceptional leadership and communication skills
- Extensive experience in financial management
2. Forensic Accountant
Average Salary: AUD 120,000–AUD 180,000 per year
Forensic accountants play a pivotal role in investigating financial discrepancies, fraud, and embezzlement.
This niche area of accounting is growing in demand due to the increasing emphasis on transparency and compliance in corporate Australia.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conducting financial investigations
- Providing expert testimony in legal cases
- Analysing financial data for irregularities
- Assisting with corporate audits
Qualifications and Skills:
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance
- Certification as a Forensic Accountant (Cr.FA) or CPA
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Attention to detail and knowledge of legal frameworks
3. Tax Manager
Average Salary: AUD 100,000–AUD 160,000 per year
Tax managers help businesses and individuals navigate the complexities of Australia’s tax system. With ever-changing tax laws, skilled tax managers are highly sought after by corporations, accounting firms, and government agencies.
Key Responsibilities:
- Preparing and reviewing tax returns
- Developing tax-saving strategies
- Ensuring compliance with Australian Taxation Office (ATO) regulations
- Advising clients on tax-related matters
Qualifications and Skills:
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Taxation
- CPA or Chartered Accountant (CA) certification
- Expertise in Australian tax laws
- Strong organisational and communication skills
4. External Auditor
Average Salary: AUD 90,000–AUD 140,000 per year
External auditors work with organisations to review their financial records and ensure compliance with accounting standards. This role is critical for maintaining transparency and trust in financial reporting.
Key Responsibilities:
- Examining financial statements for accuracy
- Evaluating internal controls and processes
- Preparing audit reports and recommendations
- Ensuring compliance with Australian Accounting Standards (AAS)
Qualifications and Skills:
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Auditing
- CPA or CA certification
- Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills
- Familiarity with auditing software and tools
5. Management Accountant
Average Salary: AUD 90,000–AUD 130,000 per year
Management accountants focus on financial planning and analysis to help organisations make informed business decisions. Their expertise in budgeting and forecasting makes them indispensable to corporate teams.
Key Responsibilities:
- Preparing financial reports and forecasts
- Analysing business performance metrics
- Collaborating with management to develop budgets
- Identifying ways to reduce costs and improve efficiency
Qualifications and Skills:
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance
- CPA or CMA (Certified Management Accountant) certification
- Strong numerical and analytical skills
- Proficiency in financial modelling software
6. Financial Controller
Average Salary: AUD 120,000–AUD 180,000 per year
Financial controllers manage a company’s accounting operations, including financial reporting, payroll, and budgeting. They work closely with CFOs to ensure the organisation’s financial stability.
Key Responsibilities:
- Overseeing accounting teams and operations
- Preparing financial statements and reports
- Developing internal financial policies
- Ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements
Qualifications and Skills:
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance
- CPA or CA certification
- Leadership and managerial experience
- Advanced knowledge of accounting software
7. Actuary
Average Salary: AUD 100,000–AUD 150,000 per year
While actuaries are often associated with insurance, their expertise in financial risk analysis makes them valuable in various sectors, including accounting. Actuaries assess financial risks using mathematics, statistics, and economics.
Key Responsibilities:
- Analysing financial risks and uncertainties
- Developing risk management strategies
- Creating models to predict financial outcomes
- Advising on investment and pricing strategies
Qualifications and Skills:
- Bachelor’s degree in Actuarial Science, Mathematics, or Accounting
- Professional certification as an actuary
- Advanced statistical and analytical skills
- Strong problem-solving abilities
8. Investment Accountant
Average Salary: AUD 100,000–AUD 140,000 per year
Investment accountants specialise in managing the financial aspects of investment portfolios. Their expertise is essential for banks, investment firms, and large corporations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Managing investment portfolios and transactions
- Preparing financial reports for investors
- Ensuring compliance with financial regulations
- Analysing market trends and risks
Qualifications and Skills:
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Economics
- CPA or CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) certification
- Knowledge of investment strategies and markets
- Strong attention to detail
Why Accounting is a High-Paying Career in Australia
The accounting profession in Australia continues to offer high salaries due to several factors:
- Increasing Demand: As businesses grow, the need for skilled accountants who can navigate complex financial regulations rises.
- Globalisation: Many Australian companies operate internationally, requiring accountants with expertise in global financial standards.
- Technological Advancements: The integration of AI and automation in accounting has increased the demand for professionals skilled in these technologies.
- Government Regulations: Stricter financial compliance laws create a need for specialised accountants in areas like auditing and taxation.
How to Secure a High-Paying Accounting Job in 2025
To secure a top-paying accounting role in Australia, consider the following tips:
- Earn Advanced Certifications: Pursue certifications like CPA, CA, or CFA to enhance your qualifications.
- Gain Specialised Skills: Focus on niche areas like forensic accounting, tax management, or financial analysis.
- Stay Updated: Keep abreast of changes in accounting standards, tax laws, and financial technologies.
- Network: Join professional organisations and attend industry events to connect with potential employers.
Conclusion On Accounting Jobs
The accounting sector in Australia offers a wealth of high-paying opportunities for professionals in 2025.
Whether you aspire to become a CFO, forensic accountant, or tax manager, there are numerous paths to financial success in this field.
By acquiring the necessary qualifications, honing your skills, and staying informed about industry trends, you can position yourself for a rewarding career in accounting.
