Financial Accountant: example job description

Financial Accountants play a critical role in maintaining an organisation’s financial health by managing its accounting processes and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. They provide accurate financial reporting that supports strategic decision-making across all levels of the business.

Typical responsibilities of a fnancial accountant include:

• Preparing financial statements such as balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow reports.
• Managing month-end and year-end closing processes.
• Ensuring compliance with Australian accounting standards (AASB) and tax regulations.
• Conducting audits and reconciling accounts.
• Analysing financial data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.
• Collaborating with internal teams on budgeting and forecasting activities.

Financial accountants also play an essential role in identifying risks, implementing controls, and ensuring transparency in financial operations.

Download our editable job description template for a comprehensive overview of Financial Accountant responsibilities.

A skilled financial accountant should possess strong technical expertise alongside key soft skills. Common qualifications include:

• Proficiency in preparing financial statements, reconciliations, audits, and tax returns.
• Strong analytical skills to interpret complex financial data.
• Attention to detail to ensure accuracy in reporting.
• Knowledge of Australian accounting standards (AASB), tax laws, and compliance requirements. 
• Experience using accounting software such as MYOB, Xero, or SAP.
• Excellent communication skills for liaising with stakeholders across departments.
• Problem-solving abilities to address discrepancies or inefficiencies in financial processes.
• Hard skills such as proficiency in accounting software, understanding of financial regulations, data analysis, and experience in budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting are crucial.

In terms of qualifications, a bachelor's degree in finance or accounting is typically required. Additional professional certifications, like becoming an ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants), can further enhance a Financial Accountant's skills and are highly regarded by employers.

For a complete list of skills and experience a Financial Accountant needs, download our free job description template.

The average salary for a financial accountant in Australia depends on factors such as location, industry sector, level of experience, and company size.

According to Robert Walters’ Salary Survey, salaries for financial accountants vary across regions:

• In New South Wales, Financial Accountants with 1–3 years of post-qualified experience earn between AUD 85,000 and AUD 110,000 annually. Contract rates range from AUD 45 to AUD 55 per hour.
  
  
• In Queensland, Financial Accountants typically earn between AUD 80,000 and AUD 120,000 annually or AUD 40 to AUD 60 per hour on contract.
  
  
• In Victoria, salaries range from AUD 85,000 to AUD 120,000 annually or AUD 45 to AUD 65 per hour for contract roles.
  
  
• In South Australia, Financial Accountants earn between AUD 75,000 and AUD 100,000 annually.
  
  
• In Western Australia, salaries range from AUD 90,000 to AUD 130,000 annually or contract rates of AUD 50 to AUD 70 per hour.

Robert Walters’ Salary Survey provides up-to-date information on salary ranges across major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide. Use this data to benchmark competitive compensation packages that attract top-tier talent while retaining existing employees.

Download your copy today for accurate salary insights tailored to Australia’s Accounting & Finance market.

Robert Walters is a global recruitment firm specializing in connecting businesses with highly qualified Accounting & Finance professionals across Australia.

With over 25 years of experience recruiting top-tier talent in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide, we understand what it takes to find exceptional candidates who meet your unique needs.

Our dedicated team has deep industry knowledge combined with local market expertise. Whether you're looking for permanent hires or interim solutions during periods of growth or transformation, we offer tailored recruitment strategies designed specifically for your business.

Submit your vacancy today or contact one of our specialist Accounting & Finance recruiters to learn how we can help you hire an outstanding Financial Accountant.

While both financial accountants and finance managers play critical roles in managing a company's finances, their responsibilities can differ.

A financial accountant primarily handles the day-to-day financial transactions of a company. Their responsibilities typically include:

• preparing financial statements
• ensuring compliance with accounting and tax laws
• conducting audits
• managing accounts payable and receivable.

They provide a detailed account of the financial transactions and ensure the financial integrity of the company.

On the other hand, a finance manager often has a more strategic role. They are usually responsible for:

• managing the financial health of the company
• overseeing and managing the financial activities
• providing financial projections and strategic planning.

Their role involves financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting, and making strategic decisions to guide the financial direction of the company.

In essence, a financial accountant focuses more on the recording and reporting of financial transactions, while a finance manager uses this information to plan, strategise, and make informed financial decisions for the company's growth.

Yes, there is significant demand for skilled financial accountants across Australia due to their vital role in ensuring businesses remain financially compliant while driving growth through effective reporting and analysis.

However, despite this demand, there is limited availability of active job seekers with the right mix of technical expertise and industry knowledge. In this competitive hiring landscape, having a well-crafted job description is crucial for standing out from other employers seeking similar talent.

Download our free template now to create an exceptional job advert that attracts top-tier candidates aligned with your company’s goals.