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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.
In Australia, a full time Government Accountant generally earns $1,350 per week ($70,200 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.
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
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.
We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.
Here are some potential career pathways within local government. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Local Government
Community Engagement Officer
$960 weekly pay
Council Maintenance Worker
$1,150 weekly pay
Council Member
$750 weekly pay
Local Government Administration Officer
Local Government Customer Service Assistant
Community Engagement Coordinator
$1,250 weekly pay
Environmental Health Officer
Foreign Affairs Adviser
Foreign Service Officer
Government Accountant
$1,350 weekly pay
Government Relations Manager
$1,500 weekly pay
Health Policy Analyst
$1,929 weekly pay
Human Rights Advocate
Human Rights Officer
International Development Consultant
$1,970 weekly pay
International Development Worker
Local Government Officer
Ministerial Advisor
Ministerial Liaison Officer
Planning Officer
Policy Analyst
$1,730 weekly pay
Policy Officer
Policy Researcher
Public Administrator
Public Health Researcher
$1,442 weekly pay
Public Servant
Diplomat
$2,700 weekly pay
Government Consultant
$5,000 weekly pay
Government Policy Advisor
$1,820 weekly pay
Investigation Manager
$1,540 weekly pay
Local Government Project Manager
Manager of Corporate Services
Policy Adviser
Policy Manager
Policy Specialist
$2,500 weekly pay
Policymaker
Political Adviser
$2,310 weekly pay
Political Analyst
$2,395 weekly pay
Political Consultant
Public Health Analyst
$2,185 weekly pay
Public Health Consultant
Public Health Officer
Senior Compliance Officer
$1,920 weekly pay
Senior Policy Officer
Senior Rates Officer
Workplace Inspector
$1,600 weekly pay
Learn more about Government Accountant courses in your area.