Introduction: How High Can Accounting Salaries Go?
Top 10% accounting salaries in Australia are not just impressive—they're career goals. While the average accountant may earn between AUD $65,000 and $100,000, those in the top 10% often command salaries of $200,000 to over $700,000 per year. These elite earners include CFOs, forensic experts, audit partners, and finance executives.
This article explores the top 10% accounting salaries by role in Australia, revealing which specialisations, industries, and career paths lead to the highest pay. Whether you're a graduate mapping your journey or an experienced professional aiming higher, these insights will help guide your next steps.
What Defines the Top 10%?
To be in the top 10% of earners in accounting, professionals typically:
- Have over 10–15 years of experience
- Hold advanced qualifications (CPA, CA, CFA, MBA)
- Lead teams, divisions, or full departments
- Work in high-growth or regulated industries (e.g. finance, mining, tech)
- Operate in major markets such as Sydney or Melbourne
Top 10% Accounting Salaries by Role (2025)
Here is a detailed breakdown of roles and what the top 10% in each position can expect to earn:
| Role | Top 10% Salary (Annual) | Typical Industry |
| Chief Financial Officer (CFO) | $400,000 – $700,000+ | ASX-listed firms, multinational corporations |
| Big 4 Partner (Audit/Tax/Advisory) | $350,000 – $600,000+ | Professional services |
| Financial Controller (Group Level) | $250,000 – $400,000 | Banking, retail, mining |
| Head of Tax / Tax Director | $250,000 – $450,000 | Corporate tax, international firms |
| Corporate Treasurer | $220,000 – $350,000 | Infrastructure, energy, banking |
| FP&A Director / Strategy Lead | $200,000 – $300,000 | Tech, investment, FMCG |
| Actuarial Accountant (Senior) | $180,000 – $270,000 | Insurance, superannuation |
| Forensic Accountant (Expert) | $180,000 – $280,000 | Legal, investigative agencies |
| SAP/Oracle Accounting Consultant | $180,000 – $250,000 | IT consulting, enterprise systems |
| Finance Business Partner (Senior) | $160,000 – $240,000 | Multinationals, large corporates |
In-Depth Look at High-Earning Accounting Roles
1. Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
CFOs are strategic leaders responsible for financial performance, investor relations, and risk management. The top-tier CFOs, particularly those in listed or global companies, often receive equity bonuses that push their total compensation beyond AUD $700,000.
2. Big 4 Partner
Senior partners in firms like PwC, Deloitte, EY, and KPMG manage high-value portfolios, lead teams, and shape strategic direction. Their income includes base salary, performance bonuses, and profit-sharing.
3. Financial Controller (Group Level)
Group Controllers oversee multi-entity reporting, compliance, and cash flow across regions. They bridge operational finance with executive leadership and frequently report directly to CFOs.
4. Head of Tax / Director of Tax
Tax directors ensure compliance with local and international regulations while optimising tax outcomes. They often manage legal entities across jurisdictions and advise on complex mergers and restructures.
5. Corporate Treasurer
Responsible for funding, liquidity, and hedging strategies, corporate treasurers play a vital role in financial health. The top 10% are found in capital-intensive industries like mining and infrastructure.
What Skills Do Top Earners Have?
To reach the top of the accounting ladder, professionals often bring:
- Strategic thinking & leadership
- Advanced reporting and forecasting skills
- Mastery of tools like SAP, Oracle, and Power BI
- Regulatory and compliance knowledge (IFRS, SOX, ESG)
- Strong stakeholder engagement skills
Industries Offering the Highest Accounting Salaries
| Industry | Top Range for Accounting Roles |
| Financial Services | Up to $700,000+ (CFO/Partner) |
| Mining & Resources | Up to $500,000 |
| Technology & SaaS | Up to $450,000 |
| Healthcare & Pharma | Up to $350,000 |
| Government/Infrastructure | Up to $300,000 |
Migration Tip: High-Earning Roles & Skilled Visas
Australia continues to experience shortages in skilled finance professionals. Accountants, especially in specialisations like:
- External Auditors
- Taxation Accountants
- Management Accountants
- Corporate Treasurers
are on the Skilled Occupation List, making them eligible for migration and employer sponsorship.
Visa Options Include:
- Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
- Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
- Subclass 482 – Temporary Skill Shortage Visa
- Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme
Considering a move to Australia or need assistance with your visa application? Book a visa consultation with our experienced Registered Migration Agents. Let us help you navigate the complexities of the Migration Program and take your first step towards a promising future in Australia.
How to Join the Top 10% of Accounting Earners
- Pursue Professional Certification
CA, CPA, CFA, or an MBA is often essential for executive roles. - Specialise Early
Taxation, audit, FP&A, or corporate treasury are high-demand areas. - Build Industry Experience
Work in top-paying sectors like finance, tech, or energy. - Grow Leadership Skills
Aim to lead teams or manage high-value projects. - Stay Technologically Ahead
Master accounting systems (e.g. SAP, NetSuite), data tools (e.g. Power BI), and ESG reporting.
Conclusion: Your Path to a High-Income Accounting Career
The accounting profession offers tremendous earning potential, particularly for those willing to specialise, lead, and upskill. As we've seen, the top 10% of accounting professionals in Australia are handsomely rewarded with six-figure salaries—and in some cases, seven figures.
Whether you’re a graduate or a mid-career professional, aligning your career with these high-growth areas and in-demand skills will position you for long-term success—and substantial income.
Remember:
This post is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional immigration advice. Given the uniqueness of every case, engaging with a registered migration agent is highly recommended for bespoke guidance and to navigate the specific details of your situation effectively. Book a visa consultation with a Registered Migration Agent
Subscribe to our newsletter
Sign up to our weekly newsletter to get the latest news about all things visas & immigration.
