Finance Managers manage all financial and accounting work within an organisation. They give clear financial guidance to senior leaders, helping them make sound decisions on investment, spending, and risk. Your Career (2025) rates this as a Very High Skill occupation, which reflects the depth of knowledge required.
Core duties span financial planning, cash flow management, and the preparation of required financial reports. Finance Managers assess the financial impact of key business decisions. They find cost savings and build models to forecast future performance. They work with Boards, CFOs, and external auditors to maintain strong oversight.
Most Finance Managers hold a bachelor degree in commerce, finance, or accounting. Many also complete a CPA or Chartered Accountant (CA) qualification. Some advance through an MBA. A strong record in roles such as Financial Analyst or Accountant is a common entry point.
With 78,200 Finance Managers employed nationally and Strong projected growth (Your Career, 2025), the outlook is positive. Average annual salaries sit around $140,000, with senior roles reaching $175,000 or more (Robert Walters Salary Survey, 2026).
Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.