Finance jobs in Australia – Sector overview
Australia remains one of the major hubs for business and finance for the Asia-Pacific region. Despite pressures created by the global financial crisis, the financial industry has remained resilient, although there is some caution with regards to hiring new staff. As businesses look to create efficiencies and come into line with new financial regulations, those with experience in regulation, risk-management, solvency and financial reporting can expect to be in demand. Those looking to migrate from countries that have borne the brunt of financial woes may find their chances of being hired tougher. Generally speaking, there will be demand for those with skills and experience as accountants or in accounting operations, business analysts, controllers, finance managers, internal auditors, and management and tax accountants. The insurance sector is always on the lookout for experienced applicants.
Finance jobs in Australia – Location
The business districts of Sydney and Melbourne are where many of Australia’s finance job opportunities are located. Over half the Australian finance sector is located in Sydney, and it is the home of the Reserve Bank, Stock Exchange and the Sydney Futures Exchange. A number of major global companies such as Coca-Cola Amatil, IBM, Microsoft, Mastercard and Price Waterhouse Coopers have their Asia-Pacific base in the city, or on the other side of the Harbour Bridge in north Sydney. Melbourne is the base of many Victorian operations, and also hosts the headquarters of two of Australia’s largest banks – National Australia Bank and ANZ. There is however, increasing growth in places like Brisbane and Perth related to the mining and natural resource sector.
Finance Jobs in Australia – Skills and Qualifications
As well as relevant qualifications, employers at present are looking for potential recruits with strong core accounting skills, soft skills such as communication and leadership, and an ability to work with the most popular and up-to-date technology and software applications. CPA Australia will assess the qualifications of those looking to migrate and work in accounting occupations.
Finance Jobs in Australia – Major Employers and Recruiters
The companies already mentioned are major players in the Australian finance industry, and all of the big names in the sector (Ernst and Young, Deloitte etc) have offices.
Recruiters include:
- Hays
- Robert Walters
- Robert Half
- Marks Sattin
- Ambition
- Gemmell Ovenden Walsh
- Hudson
- Michael Page
Finance Jobs in Australia – Pay Rates
Those working in the finance and banking sector can expect a salary of between $74,000 and $94,000, rates which are similar for accountants. Those working in insurance can expect slightly less, with a lower level job paying around $67,000. Pay rates move upwards as roles become more senior.
