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Skilled Migration Internship Program: Accounting (SMIPA)


Overview

Gone are the days when being an accountant simply meant crunching numbers – today’s graduates need to be prepared for a dynamic workplace.

The Skilled Migration Internship Program: Accounting (SMIPA) is a 44-week program that provides an insight into the Australian workplace. It includes:

  • Practical training and workshops
  • A 12-week industry internship
  • Online introduction to MYOB accounting software
  • Networking opportunities and professional development
  • Free access to online IELTS preparation course (optional)
  • Ongoing career support after the program.

SMIPA has been developed with CPA Australia, the Institute of Chartered Accountants and the Institute of Public Accountants. It has been approved by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC).


CPA Australia
Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia
Institute of Public Accountants



Who is it for?

SMIPA is aimed at international graduates who have a bachelor or master degree in accounting (as a result of at least two years study in Australia).

You must hold a Skilled – Graduate (Temporary) visa (subclass 485) or Bridging Visa A. Student visa holders are not eligible for this program.

 



Structure

Professional Year Program - Course Structure


Australian Workplace Culture *

  • Improve your resume writing and job interview skills.
  • Develop a career plan and apply for appropriate jobs.
  • Gain an understanding of the Australian workplace culture.
  • Learn how to understand and respond to employers' expectations.
  • Contribute to cultural diversity in the workplace.

Business and Professional Communication *

  • Learn how to communicate effectively with colleagues and clients.
  • Develop your understanding of the importance of communication in the workplace.
  • Chair and participate in meetings using appropriate language.
  • Write reports and other documents relevant to your profession.
  • Give presentations to work colleagues, managers and clients.

* Classes are held at the Prahran campus.

Introduction to MYOB – online unit

  • Get an introduction to the MYOB accounting software – an essential tool for any accountant.

Industry Internship

We’ll match your skills and objectives with a suitable host organisation to help you get the most out of your internship. We generally work with a range of small-to-medium sized companies and not-for-profit organisations.

Students are placed in a range of areas, including:

  • Auditing
  • Taxation
  • Accounting
  • Insolvency
  • Financial advisory firms.

Some students complete their internship with small businesses. This provides a broad range of experience – from bookkeeping and accounts receivable to debtor management and monthly reporting.

 

Entry requirements

  • A bachelor or master degree in accounting from a recognised Australian tertiary institution (as a result of at least two years study in Australia)
  • IELTS 6.0 (Academic or General Training)
    No individual band below 6.0
  • Skills assessment
    You must have a skills assessment – or provide evidence of having submitted your application for a skills assessment – from one of the following organisations:
  • Skilled – Graduate (Temporary) visa (subclass 485) or Bridging Visa A
  • Application interview
    You will need to undertake an interview as part of your application to demonstrate good communication skills, academic history, work experience and suitability for the program.
  • Health Care Cover
    Students must have health care cover for the duration of the program.



Start dates

The next intake commences on Thursday 15 March 2012. (We also have an intake in August.)

 

Professional Year Programs
 

Swinburne College programs are only available to international students. Domestic students should visit www.future.swinburne.edu.au for more information about Swinburne courses.