Update from the CPA Australia Board 10 December 2025

President’s message - a year of achievement and momentum 

2025 has been a remarkable year for CPA Australia. Together, we have delivered greater value to members through events, resources, advocacy and education, and strengthened our standing as a trusted voice for the profession.

One of the standout achievements has been the launch of the CPA Australia Mobile App, giving members easy access to tailored digital content and resources. With more than 13,700 downloads in its first month, it is already proving extremely popular. Download the app for iOS or Android. 

We are also making important progress with our flagship education initiative, the Learning Evolution, which is reshaping the future of the CPA Program and our professional development offering. This work will ensure our members are empowered, confident and ready for what lies ahead.

Our advocacy and external engagement have continued to grow in influence. CEO Chris Freeland AM and our policy team have been strongly represented in the media, speaking on issues that matter to members, including the Australian Federal election, productivity, regulatory reform, taxation, small business, superannuation and both Australian and international budgets.

This year we were proud to celebrate major milestones across our global network: 70 years in Hong Kong, 60 years in the Northern Territory and 20 years in Europe and New Zealand. These anniversaries reflect our rich history and the strength of our expanding international community.

As we look ahead to celebrating CPA Australia’s 140th anniversary in 2026, the future has never felt more promising. This milestone reminds us that our longevity and reputation rest on the dedication and professionalism of our members. I extend my sincere gratitude for your ongoing support.

On behalf of the Board, I wish you and your families a joyful festive season and a safe and happy New Year.

Carmen Wee confirmed as new director

CPA Australia is delighted to confirm the appointment of Carmen Wee to the Board of Directors, following the completion of regulatory requirements.

Carmen is the Founder and CEO of the HR advisory firm, Carmen Wee and Associates. She is an experienced Board Member across commercial, government, academic and public institutions in Singapore, the United States and the United Kingdom. With 25 years of international business experience, she has led large scale transformation and guided organisations through significant periods of change.

Carmen brings great energy, insight and depth of expertise to the Board. She shares our strong commitment to delivering value for CPA Australia’s members and supporting the future of the profession. We look forward to the contribution she will make as we continue to strengthen our impact globally.

View the full board of directors.

Celebrating professional milestones

In 2025, we proudly celebrated the remarkable academic and professional achievements of our members. More than 5,350 individuals advanced to CPA status, 1,147 members attained the prestigious FCPA designation and over 380 achieved a public practice certificate. We also honoured 4,176 members who marked significant membership anniversaries of 30 years or more, including 60 members who celebrated 70 years with us and one extraordinary member who reached 80 years of membership. These milestones reflect decades of dedication, commitment and service to the profession, and every member should feel immensely proud.

As always, our Membership Recognition Ceremonies were standout moments in the year. CPA Australia hosted 47 ceremonies across our global network, giving members the opportunity to celebrate with peers, partners, family and friends. It is a genuine privilege to share these occasions and to recognise the professional journeys and contributions of our members.

CPA Australia’s Belonging Commitment Statement

This week, CPA Australia launched its Belonging Commitment Statement. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging sit at the heart of our values and purpose. This statement reflects our commitment to building a profession that is genuinely inclusive and representative of the communities we serve.

It reinforces our purpose to be partners for progress, strengthening trusted relationships with our members and communities, and highlights our ongoing commitment to fostering a sense of belonging across our global network.

The Belonging Commitment Statement was developed by the Council of Presidents throughout the year. We thank them sincerely for their thoughtful, dedicated and diligent work in shaping this important contribution to the future of our profession.

Successful CPA Congress

This year’s CPA Congress was a resounding success, bringing together more than 9,000 delegates across three dynamic events. Over 8,220 participants joined the global online experience, and more than 840 attended our in-person conferences in the Gold Coast and Kuala Lumpur. An outstanding lineup of industry leaders and CPAs shared inspiring stories and practical insights that connected deeply with attendees. Feedback was exceptionally positive, with delegates giving an average satisfaction rating of 4.5 out of 5.

Congress 2026 promises to be even bigger and more energising. We look forward to welcoming members to the conference in Melbourne from 20 to 22 October, the virtual live experience on 23 October, and in-person events in Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur, with dates to be announced.

 

Sincerely, 

Dale Pinto FCPA
John Curtin Distinguished Professor
President and Chair
On behalf of CPA Australia’s Board of Directors