CPA Australia and the Australian Computer Society (ACS) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance career prospects for IT and accounting professionals.  

The collaboration aims to co-design, develop, and deliver training programmes and thought leadership in areas such as IT financial procurement, AI and ethics, cryptography management, and cybersecurity. 

CPA Australia CEO Chris Freeland AM described the MoU as a natural progression in formalising the longstanding, mutually beneficial relationship between the two organisations. 

Freeland said: “ACS and CPA Australia have strong ties and common interests. Both are invested in future proofing the global workforce through mutual activities in skilled migration, educational program accreditations and meaningful skill capability development programs for both our members and affiliate professionals to help bridge the gap between operational and economic management.” 

The associations aim to strengthen synergies by developing a long-term vision to benefit IT, finance, accounting, and adjacent career professionals. 

The collaboration acknowledges the fast-paced changes in professional skills required by both current and emerging professionals.  

CPA Australia and ACS aim to develop specialism streams to support professionals in enhancing their skills across the technical and financial literacy spheres. 

“Recognising that AI is a burgeoning area of technology that could affect every area of the workplace, CPA Australia and ACS will work together by using our extensive networks of subject matter experts to co-design and build training programs to help those working across the finance, accounting and IT sectors use AI effectively and ethically,” Freeland added. 

ACS CEO Josh Griggs said: “Technology has become a critical part of the accounting profession, particularly in areas like the adoption of Artificial Intelligence, development of IT skills, and cybersecurity. 

“Recognising the critical importance of cybersecurity in today’s business landscape, ACS is pleased to extend our recently announced Cyberknowledge partnership to include CPA Australia members.” 

The Cyberknowledge platform will provide accounting professionals with essential capabilities to help SMBs assess and improve their cyber resilience. 

In April 2025, CPA Australia called for “significant” enhancements to the Australian Securities and Investments Commission’s (ASIC) audit oversight.  

The initiative aims to rebuild public confidence, ease compliance pressures, and reinforce the long-term resilience of Australia’s auditing sector.  

Without these improvements, the number of auditors in the country is expected to decline.