Assistant Accountant
Whether you're launching your career or looking to build on early experience, a role as an Assistant Accountant gives you hands-on exposure to real finance operations. From reconciliations and reporting to tax support and month-end cycles, it's a fast-paced role that builds essential skills for long-term career growth.
An Assistant Accountant plays a pivotal role in the smooth operation of any finance department.
Assistant Accountants are key to keeping finance departments running efficiently. Not only do they perform critical financial tasks, but they also relieve workload pressure from senior accountants and help organisations stay compliant and cost-effective.
Common responsibilities include:
Assisting with tasks like AP/AR, payroll, and reconciliations to free up senior accountants for strategic work
Performing bank, general ledger, and balance sheet reconciliations
Assisting with close processes and preparing journals
Supporting the preparation of BAS, FBT, and GST returns
Maintaining or updating the Fixed Asset Register
Operating platforms like MYOB, SAP, Xero, or Dynamics 365
Handling financial data entry and helping identify insights or anomalies in reporting
Delivering high-value financial support at a stable salary band, making them an efficient option for growing teams
Often early in their careers, Assistant Accountants can grow with your business, developing into Financial Accountants or Analysts over time
To succeed in an Assistant Accountant role, employers are looking for:
Accurate data entry and reconciliations
Ability to juggle deadlines, especially during month-end
Comfort with spreadsheets, pivot tables, and formulas
ERP systems like MYOB, Oracle, or SAP
Understanding of credits, debits, and compliance
Bonus: Being enrolled in or working towards a CA or CPA qualification will make you even more competitive.
Curious what hiring managers are looking for? View our Hire an experienced Assistant Accountant guide
Many finance professionals start their journey as an Assistant Accountant before progressing to:
As you grow in experience and build technical skills, your career options and salary potential increase significantly.
Assistant Accountant Salaries in Sydney
Salary Range: $75,000 – $90,000 plus Superannuation.
Offering a competitive salary is essential to attract and retain top talent in today's market. Be prepared to discuss career development and professional support, as ambitious candidates value opportunities for growth.
Hiring managers want more than just a good resume. Be prepared to:
Want more interview tips? Read our Hiring Manager Guide to see what they’re looking for.
At Richard Lloyd, we work with top employers across Sydney looking for Assistant Accountants just like you. We:
If you’re ready to explore Assistant Accountant positions, we can help.
We’ll work with you to find a role that fits your skills and aspirations in Sydney’s competitive market
Submit your CV, explore open roles, or simply get in touch. Let’s shape your next move together.
For hiring managers ready to recruit an Assistant Accountant, download our job description template.
For job seekers who need to write or update their resume, download our resume guide and template.
An Assistant Accountant supports the Financial and/or Management Accountant in mid-large organisations or reports to the Accountant in smaller companies.
Typical duties may include accruals, month-end reporting up to trial balance, and GL and balance sheet reconciliations.
As a minimum, an Assistant Accountant needs to have basic accounting skills and some knowledge of Australian Accounting standards. Intermediate computer skills, including Excel, are important.
An Accountant is a professionally qualified CA or CPA and is the next logical step on the career path of an Assistant Accountant who is studying towards their qualification.
Salaries generally range from $75,000 – $90,000 plus Superannuation. depending on experience, systems knowledge, and size of the company.
A business or commerce degree with a major in accounting or finance is typically required. Many employers also value candidates currently studying for CPA or CA qualifications.
Yes, entry-level roles are often open to graduates who show strong Excel skills, financial literacy, and a willingness to learn.
Absolutely. It provides hands-on experience in core finance operations and is often a springboard into roles like Financial Accountant, Analyst, or Business Partner.
Employers favour candidates with exposure to platforms like Xero, MYOB, SAP, Oracle, or Dynamics 365. Excel proficiency is also a must.
For any enquiries on hiring your next Sydney Accounting professional or finding your next Accounting job, please complete the details below and one of our team of specialists will be in touch.
