Update from the CPA Australia Board 13 February 2026

President’s Message – Celebrating 140 years!

This is an exciting year for CPA Australia as we celebrate our 140th anniversary. From our modest beginnings in Melbourne in 1886 with 45 accountants, to a global membership of more than 176,000, we honour the many members whose drive and dedication built the standing and reputation CPA Australia enjoys today. In marking 140 years, we proudly celebrate our organisation’s rich history while remaining focused on building a successful and impactful future. 

In 2026 we are excited to celebrate two major milestones: 70 years in Malaysia and 20 years in Shanghai. We also want to honour the dedicated team members in these regions who have played a vital role in growing our global network.

Throughout the year, the board will remain focused on initiatives that enhance member value. This includes improving the digital mobile app, expanding our education and professional development offerings, and strengthening our advocacy and thought leadership on issues that matter most to our members.

Connecting with Members Across Asia

In January, I had the tremendous privilege of attending several member events across Hong Kong, Sri Lanka and India. I spoke at conferences, CFO roundtables and student forums on topics including ethics, technology and AI, ESG, and financial reporting. A highlight was attending a Member Recognition Ceremony (MRC) in Bangalore, where we celebrated the achievements and milestones of local members. This event marked the first ever MRC held in Bangalore, and indeed, in South India. I also had the honour of representing CPA Australia at the World Forum of Accountants in Greater Noida, India, hosted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), where I delivered a keynote address on ‘Sustainability, climate and social impact.’

2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM)

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of CPA Australia will be held on Wednesday 20 May 2026 at 5:30pm (AEST) at the office of CPA Australia Ltd, Level 20, 28 Freshwater Place, Southbank, Melbourne.

The AGM will be a hybrid event with members able to attend either in person at our Melbourne office or online via webcast. Members who attend the AGM online will be able to participate in the meeting and ask questions via text or phone through the online portal.

The notice of meeting for the AGM will be dispatched to members as soon as possible, but at least 21 days before the AGM, as required under S249H of the Corporations Act 2001(Cth) and the CPA Australia Constitution.

We encourage you to update your contact preferences to receive your notice of meeting and other communications by email. This is the most timely and reliable method of communication, and it is also significantly more cost-effective and environmentally sustainable.

More details about the AGM are available on the website. For further information, contact [email protected]

2026 Global Mentoring Program – Applications Open

Applications for the 2026 Global Mentoring Program are open until 2 March. This initiative provides members in all our markets with valuable avenues for learning, capability building and professional development, while also helping them expand their networks. The program creates meaningful experiences for both mentors and mentees, offering the chance to connect with peers worldwide and participate in a truly global exchange of insights and perspectives. Last year, 755 pairs participated in the program. For more details and to apply, please visit the dedicated mentoring program page on our website.

Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Workshops

Legislative reforms in Australia for anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) come into effect on 1 July 2026. This will require additional compliance obligations for many Australian-based public practitioners. To help members prepare, CPA Australia is running in-person workshops at five locations around Australia between 24 February and 5 March. Visit the website for more information, including a range of education resources and reference materials explaining the change.

 

Sincerely,

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