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Government Accountant

A Government Accountant manages financial operations for a government agency, maintaining records, preparing reports, and conducting audits while ensuring accuracy and organisation.

How do I become a government accountant

Get qualified to work as a government accountant with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Government Accountant generally earns $1,440 per week ($74,880 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

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There has been a slight increase in employment numbers in this industry over the last five years. There are currently 130,100 accountants in Australia and many of them specialise as a Government Accountant. Government Accountants may find work across all regions of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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If you’re planning a career as a Government Accountant, consider enrolling in a Diploma of Government (Financial Services). This course covers compliance issues affecting the public sector and explores various financial policies and procedures. You’ll learn to manage budgets and forecasts and maintain accounting information systems.

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Further reading

Career Spotlight: Accounting and Taxation Professionals

9th October 2019

What can you do with a Diploma of Accounting?

29th September 2021

What can you do with a Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping?

18th August 2020

Government Accountant careers

A Government Accountant oversees financial matters for a government department or agency. You might manage financial systems and process accounts payable and receivable. Government Accountants maintain financial records and prepare reports on financial activities. You might conduct financial audits or check the accuracy of financial information.

A Government Accountant should have strong analytical skills and excellent attention to detail. It’s important that you are organised and can work on several tasks at once. You might need to use a range of accounting software and be able to collate information for reports. You’ll need to be able to work as part of a team and follow instructions when required.