Introducing the CPA Australia and AFAANZ "Academia and Industry" Professional Development Series

CPA Australia and AFAANZ are proud to present Academia and Industry, a new professional development series designed to build bridges between academic and industry practice. The series aims to foster collaboration between accounting and finance academics and industry leaders, unlocking opportunities to advance the profession.

By strengthening these connections, the series seeks to equip academics with industry insights and help practitioners tap into academic knowledge, driving sustainability and innovation in the accounting profession.

Emerging Academics Forum

Join us for the Emerging Academic Forum: Navigating the Early Academic Journey – Teaching and Research Excellence for Emerging Accounting and Finance Academics, held at CPA Australia’s Brisbane office on Friday, 4 July 2025—the day before the AFAANZ Conference. Designed for early career academics attending AFAANZ, this forum offers insights, strategies, and practical guidance to help you excel in both teaching and research. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with peers, gain valuable expertise, and set yourself up for career success.

Where:  CPA Australia Brisbane Office: Level 23/333 Ann St, Brisbane City

Cost:  AFAANZ Members $30,  Non-members $50  (note that member discount will be automatically deducted)

Check out the program and register HERE for the full day event.   You can livestream the morning Keynote and Panel sessions at no charge by registering HERE

For more details about the program or any questions please contact Adam Suess.

 

Here's the first webinar "Advancing the Accounting Profession" for you to view:


Moderator: Rick Jones (Chair, Regional Head CPA Australia)

Session overview:

The accounting profession has long been synonymous with audit and tax. However, the role of accountants extends far beyond this traditional function. This panel, Advancing the Accounting Profession, will explore how non-audit sectors within large financial services firms are leading the charge in driving the evolution of the profession.

This session brings together a panel of experienced non-audit partners from leading firms in Australia and New Zealand. They will share insights into how accountants are increasingly contributing to new and emerging areas. Panellists will discuss the growing demand for accountants to adapt to new challenges and deliver value beyond compliance and financial reporting, positioning themselves as key players in navigating business complexities.

Key discussion points will include:

  • The expanding role of accountants;
  • How technology is reshaping the profession;
  • The importance of broader skill sets; and
  • How firms are fostering innovation and developing talent.

This session will provide the AFAANZ community with perspectives on how we can better prepare the next generation of professionals to meet the evolving demands of the accounting world.

"Green, Clean and Seen - Integrating Sustainability into Auditing and Education"

This session will dive into the latest sustainability standards.  It explores how these standards are being integrated into both auditing practices and accounting education, ensuring that future professionals are equipped to tackle the green wave with confidence:

Moderator: Rick Jones (Chair, Regional Head CPA Australia)