CPA Australia welcomes and supports professionals from all around the world. No matter what industry you're in or where you're at in your career, you can apply. To have your qualifications assessed, you will need to undertake a membership entry pathway assessment online.
If you need to complete foundation level study, you can undertake foundation level exams with CPA Australia, or complete recognised study through a higher-education provider. Once you have completed your foundation level, you are eligible to become a member of CPA Australia.
Associate
If you can demonstrate completion of all the requirements of the foundation level, you can join CPA Australia as an Associate (ASA) member.
You must become an ASA in order to commence the professional level of the CPA Program. As an ASA you have six years to complete the CPA Program, including six education segments and the practical experience requirement, in order to become a CPA.
Depending on your prior study and work experience, you may be eligible for exemption from the practical experience requirement and up to two elective segments.
As an ASA, you also have access to the many benefits of membership. You will belong to a global network of CPA Australia members, and receive special rates on products and services, discounts on professional development, and access to valuable resources to enhance your career.
CPA
To call yourself a CPA, you must:
- hold a degree or postgraduate award recognised by CPA Australia, in any discipline
- have demonstrated competence in our foundation level subjects (usually demonstrated by the completion of an accredited degree
- have completed the professional level, including the practical experience requirement, within six years
- undertake continuing professional development (CPD) activities each year
- comply with a code of conduct set by CPA Australia
To be able to offer public accounting services, a CPA must also hold a Public Practice Certificate in accordance with CPA Australia's by-laws.
Accountants who are qualified in countries other than Australia can apply for membership. CPA Australia has Mutual Recognition Agreements with several international accounting bodies.
Fellow
Highly-experienced CPAs can become a Fellow of CPA Australia (FCPA). To become an FCPA, you must be a CPA with at least 15 years full-time work in accounting, finance or business, including at least five years experience in an executive position or as a public accountant.
Financial Planning Specialisation
CPAs can apply for a Financial Planning Specialisation, to demonstrate their specialist knowledge of financial planning
