Finding the right accountant is a critical decision for any business. Beyond crunching numbers, a skilled accountant plays a pivotal role in ensuring financial compliance, optimizing tax strategies and providing insights that drive growth.
With Australia’s evolving economic landscape, businesses are constantly seeking experienced professionals who can manage complex financial operations while aligning with regulatory standards. Given the shortage of qualified local talent, many companies are open to sponsoring international accountants who bring expertise, fresh perspectives and a strong work ethic to the table.
For businesses operating in competitive industries, having the right financial management team is non-negotiable. Accountants who can analyze financial data, streamline reporting and implement cost-saving measures are invaluable assets.
With employer-sponsored visa options available, Australian companies are keen to onboard international talent who possess the right skills, qualifications and adaptability to thrive in dynamic work environments. The focus is on professionals who not only understand numbers but also contribute strategically to business growth.
High Demand Accountant Roles in Australia with Employer Sponsorship
Accounting in Australia isn’t just about bookkeeping—it spans several specialized areas that require expert professionals. Below are some of the top accounting roles that often come with employer sponsorship:
1. Chartered Accountant (CA) and Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA)
These professionals provide strategic financial guidance, auditing services and taxation expertise. Holding a CA or CPA certification significantly increases your chances of securing employer sponsorship in Australia.
2. Financial Accountant
Responsible for managing company financial reports, compliance with regulatory standards and ensuring financial integrity, financial accountants are highly sought after by Australian employers.
3. Management Accountant
Management accountants analyze financial data to help businesses make cost-effective decisions. Their expertise is crucial for financial forecasting and business planning.
4. Tax Accountant
Given Australia’s complex tax system, tax accountants specializing in corporate and individual tax compliance are always in demand.
5. Auditors (Internal & External)
Businesses require internal and external auditors to maintain financial transparency and comply with Australian accounting standards.
6. Forensic Accountant
These professionals investigate financial discrepancies and fraud cases. Their services are essential in both private companies and government agencies.
Each of these roles offers strong prospects for employer-sponsored visas, provided you meet the required qualifications and experience.
How to Secure an Employer-Sponsored Accountant Job in Australia
The key to securing accountant jobs in Australia offering employer sponsorship is to be strategic in your job search. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
1. Ensure You Have the Right Qualifications
Most Australian employers prefer candidates with a CA, CPA or ACCA certification. Holding a bachelor’s or master’s degree in accounting, finance or a related field is typically a minimum requirement.
2. Gain Relevant Work Experience
Employers favor candidates with at least 2-5 years of professional experience. Industry-specific expertise in taxation, audit or financial analysis can give you a competitive edge.
3. Research Companies That Offer Sponsorship
Not all Australian companies offer visa sponsorship. Target multinational corporations, large accounting firms and businesses in need of specialized accounting expertise. Companies such as Deloitte, KPMG, PwC, EY and several Australian-based firms regularly sponsor foreign accountants.
4. Leverage Job Portals & Recruitment Agencies
Websites like Seek, Indeed and LinkedIn frequently list accountant jobs in Australia offering employer sponsorship. Additionally, recruitment agencies specializing in finance and accounting can help connect you with potential sponsors.
5. Customize Your Resume & Cover Letter for Australian Employers
Australian hiring standards emphasize clear, concise and results-oriented resumes. Highlight your accounting certifications, experience and expertise in financial management, taxation or auditing.
6. Apply for the Right Visa Category
There are multiple visa pathways for accountants seeking employer sponsorship in Australia. The most common visas include:
- Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage Visa) – A popular employer-sponsored visa.
- Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme Visa) – A pathway to permanent residency.
- Subclass 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa) – For jobs outside major cities.
Understanding visa options can streamline the application process and increase your chances of success.
Top Cities in Australia Offering Accountant Jobs with Employer Sponsorship
While accounting jobs are available nationwide, certain cities have higher demand for financial professionals:
Sydney – As the financial hub of Australia, Sydney has a thriving accounting sector with major global firms.
Melbourne – Home to numerous multinational corporations, Melbourne provides diverse opportunities for accountants.
Brisbane – Rapid economic growth in Queensland has driven the need for skilled accountants in Brisbane.
Perth – With a strong focus on mining and natural resources, Perth offers accounting roles in corporate finance and taxation.
Adelaide – A growing business sector in Adelaide means increasing demand for financial professionals.
Salary Expectations for Accountants in Australia with Employer Sponsorship
Salaries for accountants in Australia vary based on experience, location and specialization. Below is an estimated salary range for key accounting roles:
- Entry-Level Accountant – AUD 55,000 – AUD 70,000 per year
- Mid-Level Accountant (3-5 years experience) – AUD 75,000 – AUD 100,000 per year
- Senior Accountant – AUD 100,000 – AUD 130,000 per year
- Finance Manager – AUD 120,000 – AUD 150,000 per year
- Chartered Accountant/CPA – AUD 80,000 – AUD 120,000 per year
- Tax Accountant – AUD 70,000 – AUD 100,000 per year
These salary figures can increase significantly with additional qualifications and industry experience.
Landing accountant jobs in Australia offering employer sponsorship requires a strategic approach. To maximize your chances:
- Ensure you have relevant qualifications such as CA or CPA.
- Gain professional experience in high-demand accounting specializations.
- Target employers that regularly sponsor international accountants.
- Optimize your job search through recruitment agencies and job portals.
- Apply for the most suitable visa category.
With the right approach, securing an employer-sponsored accountant job in Australia is entirely achievable. The demand for skilled financial professionals remains high, making it an ideal time to pursue a career in Australia’s thriving accounting sector.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need prior work experience to get an employer-sponsored accounting job in Australia?
Yes, most sponsored accounting jobs require at least 2–5 years of relevant experience. Senior roles may require even more extensive experience in financial management, auditing or tax accounting.
Which visa is best for accountant jobs in Australia offering employer sponsorship?
The most common visa for employer-sponsored accountants is the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa (Subclass 482). However, the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa (Subclass 186) provides a pathway to permanent residency.
Can I apply for accountant jobs in Australia offering employer sponsorship while living abroad?
Yes, many Australian employers hire international accountants and conduct virtual interviews. Job portals like SEEK, Indeed Australia and LinkedIn are great platforms to find employer-sponsored opportunities.
Do I need to pass a skills assessment to work as an accountant in Australia?
Yes, for visa purposes, you may need to undergo a skills assessment through CPA Australia, CA ANZ or IPA Australia to prove that your qualifications meet Australian standards.
What is the average salary for an accountant job in Australia with employer sponsorship?
Salaries vary based on experience and specialization, but most accountant jobs in Australia offering employer sponsorship pay between $80,000 – $130,000 AUD per year.
Which industries offer the most accountant jobs in Australia with employer sponsorship?
Sectors such as finance, healthcare, construction, retail and IT have a high demand for accountants. Additionally, Big 4 firms (PwC, Deloitte, EY, KPMG) and multinational companies frequently sponsor skilled accountants.
What are the biggest challenges in securing an employer-sponsored accounting job in Australia?
Competition from local candidates, strict visa requirements and the need for recognized qualifications can make securing sponsorship challenging. Having relevant experience and Australian-standard credentials can help overcome these obstacles.
Do regional areas in Australia offer more opportunities for accountant job sponsorship?
Yes, regional employers often have fewer local applicants and are more willing to sponsor international accountants. Roles in cities like Adelaide, Darwin and Hobart can provide an easier pathway to sponsorship.