Know before you go
Moving to Australia – a video guide
Australian Society Chair Cliff Wilson and committee member Paul Minton offer advice to members who are thinking about going down under.
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Listen to an interview with Cliff Wilson on KCFM, speaking about emigrating to Australia.
The key things you need to consider when planning your move
Moving away is a huge decision and perhaps more so when it is as far away as Australia. Here we offer lots of advice, information and tips that have been kindly compiled by lots of members who have settled in Australia.
Research locations
- Economic and employment outlook
- Cost of living, tax rates and salaries
- Availability of accommodation
- Driving licence in your chosen state
- Support networks
Visa and immigration
- Apply for a suitable skilled migration visa.
- Ensure you meet the points requirements for skilled migration.
- Prove English language proficiency if English is not your first language.
Qualification recognition
Your Chartered Accountants Ireland qualification is recognised by Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand. However, you may need to complete some additional certification for Australian standards or areas of expertise such as audit or tax. If you hold other qualifications, you may need to confirm their validity or equivalence in Australia.
Job market
- Research demand for accounting and finance roles in the area you want to relocate to.
- Contact Chartered Accountants Ireland's Careers team for introductions to Australian-based recruitment agencies.
- Get in touch with Chartered Accountants Ireland's Australian Society for on-the-ground advice and tips.
- Check out job hunting websites.
- Network: Use your own networks and LinkedIn to reach out to the market.
Your membership – Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs)
Chartered Accountants Ireland is a member of the Global Accounting Alliance and offers a mutual reciprocity agreement with Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand. This allows you as a member of Chartered Accountants Ireland to access many of the benefits and supports offered to Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CAANZ) members while you are overseas.
Some restrictions do apply to MRAs. These primarily relate to areas of specific geographical legislation such as company law, tax or audit. CAANZ offers courses that will allow you to gain required local certification.
You will need to maintain your Chartered Accountants Ireland membership while you are oversea to ensure ongoing access to Chartered Accountants Ireland supports and to avoid penalties on your return. We offer reduced membership rates for overseas members.
Have a query?
If you have a query, please refer to our Support & Services page and contact the relevant department with your query.
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