5.1.3 Professional membership pathway. The most common entry pathway to
professional bodies for candidates is through obtaining accounting/business-related
tertiary degree qualifications which covers the core competency requirements.
Alternatively, candidates may meet the pre-entry requirements by completing a
foundation level program (for example, the CPA Foundation Program or the Graduate
Certificate of Chartered Accounting Foundations Program) or by completing
stand-alone units, which meet the professional core competency requirements above
and beyond their existing qualifications (either Australian or overseas). However,
increasingly candidates from around the globe have sought entry membership on the
basis of tertiary qualifications completed overseas. Exemptions may be granted on the
basis of an international award and/or prior work experience.
The high level of involvement of the professional accounting bodies in the accreditation
of accounting programs in Australia promotes ongoing dialogue between academics and
professional bodies; a unique feature of the accounting education system in Australia
compared to many other countries. University accounting programs in Australia are
accredited by the two major professional accounting bodies: CPAA and ICAA.
5.1.4 Associate (pre-professional) level membership. The three professional bodies
provide a pre-professional level membership for candidates who qualify to follow the
program (as indicated in the professional membership pathway).
CPAA provides an Associate Membership (ASA) level for candidates who meet the
entry requirements, once they enrol for the professional level program. ASA candidates
have six years to complete the CPA Program and meet the relevant practical experience
requirement, to become a CPA. Furthermore, candidates must hold a university degree
to receive the CPA designation.
The ICAA does not necessarily have a designated pre-professional membership
level. However, candidates who meet the core competency requirements are allowed to
enter the ICAA professional program.
The IPA provides an IPA Associate membership level for those who meet the core
requirements. The IPA differentiates itself from the other two professional bodies by
providing a pathway for students holding an Advanced Diploma.