What does it mean to actively meet your ethical obligations as a finance or accounting professional? In this episode, you’ll learn how corporate scandals reveal recurring themes in ethical failings and leadership culture. The episode also expands beyond misconduct to highlight proactive ethical leadership, and learn how to use Part 1 of APES 110 code as a practical framework to: Assess risks Apply safeguards Make confident ethical decisions If you're an accountant or finance professional looking...
Jun 18, 2025•22 min
Time. It’s one thing many busy professionals wish we had more of in our working days. Whether you're drowning in meetings or struggling to tick off your daily tasks, this episode is here to help. You’ll find clear, actionable tips to help you work smarter and achieve your goals. You’ll learn: Why “I’m busy” isn’t the answer, and what you should focus on instead How to set realistic, achievable goals that drive real progress What professionals get wrong about productivity and how to fix it How to...
Jun 03, 2025•18 min
Ever wondered how well you communicate? Communication expert Dr Louise Mahler shares practical, research-backed techniques to help you build trust, speak with confidence and strengthen your presence. Whether you're presenting to the board, in an online meeting or fielding tough questions, this episode gives you the tools to communicate with greater impact and earn trust more effectively. From unconscious habits that sabotage credibility to the secrets behind handling high-pressure moments, unpac...
May 20, 2025•19 min
What does productivity really mean in today’s fast-moving, tech-driven world – and are traditional measures still relevant? In this episode of INTHEBLACK, take a fresh look at how to define and measure productivity in today’s high-tech economy. Longstanding metrics like multi-factor productivity (MFP) and gross domestic product (GDP) have shaped economic policy for decades – but are they still fit for purpose? An expert guest expert draws on insights from the Australian Productivity Commission a...
Apr 23, 2025•15 min
As organisations big and small integrate artificial intelligence into their operations, understanding the vulnerabilities that come with AI systems is essential. In this episode, we'll explore the crucial intersection between AI and cybersecurity. You’ll gain insights on AI systems, common pitfalls in AI security and specialist tips for businesses to navigate this dynamic landscape. This episode covers areas such as: Adversarial machine learning (AML) The fundamental difference between AI and IT...
Apr 07, 2025•31 min
How is the role of the CFO evolving and what does it mean for the future of finance? In this episode, you’ll gain key takeaways from Hays’ CFO Insights Report, which surveyed nearly 300 CFOs across Australia and New Zealand. You’ll learn how finance leaders are shifting from traditional financial management to a more strategic “chief value officer” role, driving broader organisational impact in an increasingly volatile business landscape. Gain valuable insights into how CFOs are using AI for aut...
Mar 24, 2025•12 min
On International Women’s Day 2025, we explore the ongoing journey to gender equality in the workplace. In this episode you’ll uncover valuable insights on the difference between pay equity and the gender pay gap, and learn more about key issues such as: Leadership: The crucial role of leadership in driving gender equality and fostering a respectful, inclusive workplace culture. Impact of legislative changes: How policies such as paid parental leave and corporate diversity principles have improve...
Mar 07, 2025•21 min
The mergers and acquisitions landscape is shifting. Are you prepared? In this episode, unpack the key trends shaping Australia’s mid-market M&A activity, drawing on exclusive insights from the latest Pitcher Partners’ Dealmakers report. Learn what’s driving deal enthusiasm, how market capitalisations are influencing transactions and where Australia stands in the regional and global M&A arena. Plus: the industries that are primed for consolidation, opportunities emerging in the year ahead...
Mar 03, 2025•26 min
New tax requirements are on the horizon for not-for-profits, and approximately 150,000 NFPs will have to lodge a tax return. Learn how these new requirements will affect NFPs and why the ATO implemented the changes. Tune in now to stay informed. Host: Ram Subramanian, Interim Head of Policy and Advocacy, CPA Australia Guest: Nunzio Giunta FCPA , the Managing Partner and Founder of Giuntabell , a specialist not-for-profit accounting firm. He is also the chair of the CPA Australia Not-For-Profit C...
Feb 23, 2025•18 min
Natcha Lertanuntrakul is a dedicated auditor with a passion for the profession. And as the 22-year-old explains, it’s not just about number crunching. Auditing is a varied role that includes client visits, people skills and offering valuable insights for businesses. In celebration of Auditor Proud Day 2024 - which recognises the crucial role auditors play in upholding strong corporate governance and supporting businesses around the world - she shares her journey and experiences. Don’t miss out o...
Feb 09, 2025•16 min
Ever wondered who advises the Australian government on tax policy from a business and tax community perspective? If so, you’re in the right place: this episode delves into the role Australia’s Board of Taxation plays. We’re joined by the board’s Secretary and Tax Counsel, who explains how this important non-statutory advisory body helps improve the design and operation of tax policy. Discover the board’s origins, its charter, members, key focus areas, notable recommendations, current projects an...
Jan 26, 2025•31 min
The world of financial reporting, auditing, assurance and tax advice seems far away from a subject like climate change. But the challenge of sustainability reporting, and the requirements that will fall on the accounting profession, are getting closer and closer. This podcast will deliver insights on the changes set to happen in sustainability reporting obligations. Delve into the expert analysis on how these measures could impact accountants, finance professionals and businesses alike. Don’t mi...
Jan 12, 2025•17 min
CPA Australia is helping to ease the excessive red tape burden on business by successfully advocating for more streamlined processes. In this podcast you’ll learn how we’re facilitating a better navigation of regulatory requirements, especially in financial reporting. Listen now to find out more. Host: Simon Downes, External Affairs Lead, CPA Australia Guest: Ram Subramanian, Interim Head of Policy and Advocacy, CPA Australia For more insights, read how CPA Australia saved the Queensland constru...
Jan 01, 2025•20 min
CPA Australia's 15th annual Asia-Pacific Small Business Survey reveals extensive data on small business challenges across the region. This episode dissects the survey’s findings and delves into the issues faced by businesses in 11 diverse markets, including India, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Mainland China and Hong Kong. With input from more than 4,200 business owners and senior managers from companies with less than 20 employees, the survey offers invaluable information for you and your org...
Dec 26, 2024•18 min
Keeping pace with industrial regulations is crucial for Australian businesses - and we’ve seen a raft of law changes in recent times. This episode looks at the latest developments in Australian Industrial Relations (IR) law and their potential impact on employers and employees. Deep dive into the practical implications for employers and employees of fixed-term contracts, the right to disconnect, the revised definitions of employee, employer and casual work and more. Stay on top of the latest IR ...
Dec 19, 2024•31 min
As technology and artificial intelligence grow in sophistication, dynamic pricing is increasingly being considered as part of a pricing strategy. What are the benefits and potential pitfalls that businesses should be aware of? In this episode, you’ll learn how dynamic pricing has evolved into sophisticated real-time pricing powered by algorithms and data analytics. Discover the critical balance between profitability and maintaining customer trust, with insights on avoiding common pitfalls like u...
Nov 29, 2024•27 min
Are long hours and high-stress workloads wearing you down as an accountant or business professional? You're not alone. In this episode, we’ll delve into the pressing issue of burnout and stress in the finance sector, exploring practical strategies to enhance your wellbeing. Join us as a workplace wellbeing expert shares actionable self-care techniques tailored for busy finance professionals. Discover how to recognise the signs of burnout, understand the effects of stress on your mental and physi...
Nov 19, 2024•23 min
Explore the Hays 2024-25 salary guide, celebrating 45 years of insightful reporting on the Australian and New Zealand job market. Learn key trends and salary ranges essential for accounting, finance and business professionals in today’s job market. With input from over 15,000 respondents across 26 industries, a key finding reveals that 77% of employees are considering new job opportunities, primarily due to the rising cost of living. Discover further insights on skills shortages and the permanen...
Oct 14, 2024•14 min
Social media is here to stay, especially for leaders in today’s digital world. But many still feel anxious about how to navigate it. In this episode, we’ll explore the significance of personal branding and address some common concerns leaders have about social media. Our expert guest shares valuable insights on the relationship between personal and business social media, the evolving importance of social media guidelines in organisations and how enterprise social networks can enhance productivit...
Sep 30, 2024•22 min
Measuring the ‘S’ in Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) is becoming more of a priority when it comes to company reporting. In this episode, learn more about the methodology, benefits and challenges involved in social impact reporting, and what you need to know. Tune in to elevate your understanding with a leader in the field. Host: Aidan Ormond, digital content editor, CPA Australia Guest: Adam Vise , Group Treasurer, Strategy and Social Value at Australian Unity, and Chair of Birchal Eq...
Sep 16, 2024•29 min
Stanford University’s Erik Brynjolfsson joins us to share insights on how business can leverage AI to boost productivity, innovation and growth. In this episode, Erik explores the key role of a CFO in the AI era, strategies for staying competitive in today’s digital world, and the AI skills professionals need to stay ahead. He also dives into the future of work, the growing importance of intangible assets, and the ethical implications of AI development. Join us to gain valuable insights from a l...
Sep 02, 2024•20 min
Ethics are a cornerstone of the accounting profession. In this episode, an ethical intelligence specialist explores the challenges accountants and finance professionals face in relation to ethics. Gain practical advice on how you can avoid common ethics pitfalls and how to develop and apply ethical intelligence to ensure compliance with the APES 110 code. Dive into real-world examples of how accountants have violated key principles – integrity, objectivity, competence, confidentiality and profes...
Aug 21, 2024•26 min
Curious about the latest mergers and acquisitions trends in Australia? Dive into why dealmakers are feeling confident despite a slowdown in overall activity for 2023. Unpack the reasons behind this cautious optimism and explore what's driving M&A trends across different deal sizes – small cap, mid-market and large cap. You’ll also discover how the Australian M&A market stacks up against the rest of the world, learn the industries for consolidation and the opportunities in the world of M&...
Aug 05, 2024•16 min
The cost-of-living crisis is hitting employees hard. Pay rises, tax relief and bonuses can only do so much. But what if there was a way to support your staff and boost your business without harming the bottom line? In this episode, we dive deep into how reimagining company rewards programs can tackle the cost-of-living squeeze. By shifting the focus to practical, everyday benefits, you can attract top talent, boost employee satisfaction and at the same time strengthen your company culture. Join ...
Jul 22, 2024•24 min
Did you know that only about 20% of jobs are actually advertised? It's true. The majority hide from view in what’s known as the ‘hidden’ job market. But how does this market operate, and more importantly, how can you tap into it to elevate your career in accounting and finance? Tune in now to discover the secrets to landing that dream job you didn’t even know was out there. We’ve got the inside word from an executive search and recruitment specialist who’s mastered the art of uncovering these el...
Jul 08, 2024•26 min
The accounting and finance landscape is evolving rapidly. This episode of Career Hacks will equip you with the tools to thrive in the age of AI and automation. Join us as we explore actionable strategies to: Enhance your marketability through AI and digital skill development Unlock new levels of productivity by leveraging automation tools Gain valuable insights specifically tailored for CFOs navigating the tech revolution. This episode provides tips and practical advice to help you confidently e...
Jun 24, 2024•25 min
Meaningful work influences job contentment and career progression. It can reduce stress and enhance overall health and wellness. Engaging in meaningful work also brings a sense of fulfillment. Not surprisingly, employers also benefit when employees are engaged and fulfilled. In this episode of Career Hacks, learn strategies to ensure your work is meaningful throughout your career. Tune in today. Host: Garreth Hanley , Podcast Producer, CPA Australia Guest: Nina Mapson Bone , a people strategist ...
Jun 10, 2024•17 min
The world of work is constantly changing. Today, the need for new tech skills and an understanding of AI and automation are critical for accountants. In this Career Hacks episode, you’ll learn how accountants can adapt to and even embrace this digital evolution and, in doing so, unlock ways to reshape the profession for a new age. With specialist insights from an FCPA, you’ll gain valuable information on how accountants can build future-ready technology skills and thrive in the digital era. List...
May 28, 2024•24 min
Elevate your career in accounting and finance with expert advice on how to stand out in the job market. In this episode you’ll learn how to unleash your full potential by adopting the mindset of a recruiter. Join us to gain insights from a careers and job interview expert to help find your career sweet spot. Host: Jackie Blondell, Editor, CPA Australia Guest: Leah Lambart , a career and interview coach who began as a tax consultant with KPMG. After stints as a recruiter and HR consultant and run...
May 14, 2024•19 min
What is meaningful work? And can you find it in your working life? In this insightful career hacks episode, you’ll discover how to find work that gives you purpose and provides joy. Learn if meaningful work is just a myth and how you could transition to a new, more joyful type of work. Uncover what it could mean for you with expert insights from a top career coach. Host: Jackie Blondell, Editor, CPA Australia Guest: Brian Klindworth , an expert career coach who helps clients find meaning in thei...
Apr 30, 2024•17 min
