CPA Australia

Who we are

CPA Australia is a professional body for accounting, finance and business professionals. We began in 1886 as the Incorporated Institute of Accountants in Victoria with 45 members, became CPA Australia in 1952, and have grown into a global community of more than 176,000 professionals across 150 countries and regions, supported by 20 offices around the world.

Our vision is to lead the future of the global accounting profession and to develop business professionals with tomorrow’s capabilities. Our purpose is to be partners for progress, strengthening trusted relationships with our members and communities.

What it means to be a CPA

A Certified Practising Accountant (CPA) holds an internationally recognised qualification that signals depth and quality of accounting knowledge. To use the CPA designation, a member must:

• complete a degree or postgraduate award recognised by CPA Australia

• complete the CPA Program, including three years of professional experience in finance, accounting or business

• undertake continuing professional development (CPD) every year

• follow the code of conduct set by CPA Australia

CPAs who want to offer public accounting services also complete our Public Practice Program and hold a Public Practice Certificate.

A global voice for the profession

We are a founding member of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC), and we work with standard-setters and professional bodies around the world, including the International Accounting Standards Board, the International Sustainability Standards Board and the Australian Accounting Standards Board.

Working with us

We aim to build a culture where everyone feels safe, respected, valued and connected, and we invite people to join us in making a difference to our members around the world.