Advanced Diploma of Accounting

The Advanced Diploma of Accounting at the Institute of Business and Management Australia (IBMA) is a practical, 1.5-year qualification for people who want to work in accounting and finance. It sits at the diploma level on the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), below a bachelor degree. You will study the core of financial accounting, management accounting, budgeting and forecasting, financial reporting, and maybe tax and business law, depending on the units you choose. The course is delivered over three or four study periods (trimesters or semesters), and each unit carries a set number of credit points. To graduate, you need to complete all required units and any electives. IBMA may also include a work placement or a project where you apply your skills in a real business setting. You should check the official course page for the exact structure and unit list.

This qualification is built for the workplace. You will learn how to prepare financial statements, analyse budgets, use accounting software, and understand compliance with Australian tax and reporting rules. Assessment is a mix of exams, assignments, and practical tasks. The course is taught in English, and international students need to meet the English entry requirements. For this level, IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is typical, but always confirm the exact score on the IBMA website. The Department of Home Affairs also sets its own English requirement for the Student visa, which is separate from the course entry requirement.

The Advanced Diploma of Accounting is a good fit if you want a focused, job-ready qualification without committing to a full bachelor degree. It suits school leavers, career changers, and people already working in bookkeeping or accounts who want to formalise their skills. The course also provides a pathway: many students use it to gain credit towards a bachelor degree in accounting or business. Credit is usually granted as units of study and credit points, based on what you have already completed. Check with IBMA about pathway arrangements and credit transfer.

As an international student, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session. After you finish, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, which lets you stay and work in Australia. That visa has its own requirements, so look at the Department of Home Affairs website for details. All fees, start dates, and entry requirements are published on the CRICOS register and the IBMA official page. Always confirm the latest information there before you apply.

• Accounts clerk
• Bookkeeper
• Payroll officer
• Assistant accountant
• Accounts payable/receivable officer
• Budget analyst
• Tax preparer (under supervision)
• Financial clerk

These roles are found in accounting firms, small and medium businesses, government departments, banks, and not-for-profit organisations across Australia. The Advanced Diploma of Accounting can also lead to further study, such as a bachelor degree in accounting, which may open up roles like accountant or auditor, and possible membership with professional bodies.