Lead, support and advocate for members as the profession grows
Andrew Wilson FCPA, CFO, Princeton Financial Services (left)
Lisa Gill FCPA, Head of Finance, Australian Institute of Architects (right)
Performance
Represents members’ interests in the public debate ▼ 6.66/10
GHG emissions ▼ 10,743 tCO2e
Roles filled internally ▲ 24.7%
Advocacy and thought leadership
In 2025, CPA Australia delivered a broad, outcomes focused policy program that strengthened the profession’s voice, supported members, and contributed to national and regional economic resilience.
We drew on the expertise of our Divisional Councils, Committees, discussion groups, CoEs and members.
We also collaborated with other professional and industry bodies for a unified voice to achieve better outcomes for members and the public.
Sustainable development goals
Our approach to ESG disclosures
The diagram below shows our governance approach to ESG matters. ESG responsibilities are contained in the Charters of the Board, Board Committees and the ESG Steering Committee.
All working groups under the ESG Steering Committee have a Terms of Reference that covers the scope of their responsibilities. The working groups report their actions to the Steering Committee which then prioritises items for further discussion with the Board, Board Committees, and ELT.
Regular progress reporting (including metrics and targets) is prepared by the Steering Committee and submitted to the ARCC for discussion and approval.
To support the transition to AASB S2 a working group has been formed under the ESG Steering Committee who will oversee the transition to full reporting under S2.
While elements of the S2 reporting format have been incorporated into this year’s disclosures, this report is not yet fully aligned with the S2 standard; however, requirements are actively being assessed for inclusion in future reporting cycles.
Sustainable development goals
Environment and climate action
The accountancy profession can play a significant role in achieving both climate-related mitigation and adaptation. In many small to medium organisations, accountants may be the only employees with the knowledge to assist with climate change risks and reporting.
Sustainable development goals
People and community
CPA Australia is committed to supporting our people, members and the broader community in which we operate. Many CPA Australia members volunteer their time and skills to benefit the communities they live and work in.
We are committed to attracting and retaining employees whose composition reflects a diversity of backgrounds, knowledge, experience and abilities. We have a Wellbeing, Inclusion and Diversity framework that supports both our people and our members. We also encourage our people to give back to their communities and all employees have access to two days paid volunteering leave.
Sustainable development goals
Governance
The Board is the overarching governing body of CPA Australia. The Board independently and objectively assesses the organisation’s decisions and oversees the performance and activities of management. The Board is elected by members through the Appointments Council as shown in Figure 10 on page 83.
As part of its continuing governance role, the Board has an ongoing responsibility for a number of key decisions, including:
- setting and approving the organisation’s strategy, direction, risk appetite and financial objectives
- appointing the President and Deputy Presidents
- approving financial statements
- approving our values, “The CPA Australia Way”
- appointing the CEO and evaluating the CEO’s performance
- making and amending By‐Laws.
The Board and each Board Committee reviews its respective performance regularly throughout the year.