Diploma of Accounting

The Diploma of Accounting is a one-year qualification for people who want practical bookkeeping and accounting skills, or a pathway into further study. You learn how to process financial transactions, prepare journals and ledgers, reconcile bank statements, complete Business Activity Statements, and produce financial reports and statements. Units also cover budgeting, payroll, spreadsheet use, and the compliance side of accounting, the rules and standards that sit behind the numbers.

Australian diplomas are made up of units of study, each carrying credit points. At this level, assessment is usually a mix of assignments, practical tasks, tests and exams rather than a long research thesis. Some providers build in a work placement or simulated workplace tasks so you practise on real-world scenarios. The course is delivered over semesters or trimesters, and you can often choose to study full-time or part-time depending on the provider. Confirm the exact unit list, credit points and delivery mode on the official page.

This diploma suits school leavers, career changers, and people already working in accounts or administration who want a recognised qualification. It also works as a stepping stone, many students use it to enter a bachelor degree in accounting with credit for prior study. If you are an international student, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session. After graduating, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, which lets you stay and work in Australia. Check the current rules with the Department of Home Affairs.

English requirements for international applicants are usually IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall, or an accepted equivalent such as TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic or Cambridge C1 Advanced. The Student visa has its own separate English threshold set by the Department of Home Affairs. Tuition fees are published on the CRICOS register under course code 112760F, check there for the current amount. Entry requirements and start dates vary, so always confirm the details on the official page before applying.

• Accounts clerk
• Bookkeeper
• Payroll officer
• Accounts payable or receivable officer
• Assistant accountant
• BAS agent (with additional registration requirements)

These roles are found across public practice firms, small and medium businesses, government departments, not-for-profits and corporate finance teams throughout Australia. The diploma also provides a pathway into further study, such as a bachelor degree in accounting, which can lead to roles as an accountant, auditor or financial analyst.