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Certified Practising Accountant

STRIKING FIGURES

Strategic Advisory: The Evolving Role of Accountants in 2025

  • Writer: Srinath Kondapally
    Srinath Kondapally
  • Aug 11
  • 2 min read
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The accounting profession is undergoing a profound transformation, transitioning from traditional compliance-focused roles to becoming indispensable strategic advisors who drive business growth and resilience. This shift is well-documented by leading bodies such as CPA Australia and Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand, reflecting a clear surge in client demand for advisory services beyond basic bookkeeping.


The Strategic Shift

A pivotal report from CPA Australia reveals that 80% of accounting firms are witnessing increased client requests for advisory services, including financial planning, risk management, and strategic business counsel. Far from mere add-ons, these services are now essential in navigating today’s volatile business landscape. CPA Australia and Chartered Accountants ANZ both highlight that delivering data-driven insights, scenario forecasting, and proactive guidance are fundamental to client retention and sustainable value creation.


The Importance of Advisory Services

In an era defined by rapid regulatory change, economic uncertainty, and technological disruption, strategic advisory services equip businesses to respond efficiently and confidently. Expert Advisory studies show that firms leveraging data intelligence and personalised advice report superior client satisfaction and growth trajectories. Key advisory areas today include managing cash flow scenarios, regulatory compliance with a focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors, mergers and acquisitions strategy, and technology adoption roadmaps.


How Accountants Can Lead the Way

Accountants must embrace a translator role, demystifying complex financial data into actionable insights for clients. They need to adopt a proactive approach, delivering these insights before clients even realise the need. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and ongoing professional development are critical to meeting evolving demands. CPA Australia champions continuous learning that emphasises strategic thinking and technology fluency for accountants positioned at the forefront of advisory services.


References

CPA Australia, "Accounting Trends and Client Expectations," 2025

Infomineo, “Financial Industry Trends in Banking and Fintech in 2025”

Guidehouse, “2025 Financial Services Trends”

Chartered Accountants Australia & NZ, Strategic Advisory Publications


This enhanced focus on strategic advisory reinforces accountants as not just number crunchers, but as trusted business partners essential to future-proofing organisations in Australia’s dynamic economic environment.


 
 
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