25 July 2007 
 
The Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia today announced that applications are open for first year accounting, business and commerce students to apply for one of more than 195 prestigious paid work experience placements at Institute accredited firms across Australia. 
 
Chartered Accountants Achiever Work Experience allows students to gain first hand experience in the accounting profession, helping them learn skills that will assist later in their degree and more importantly, have the opportunity to make a lasting impression with a potential graduate employer. 
 
“The Achiever Work Experience program offers students the opportunity to ensure that their résumé will leap out to potential employers when they are looking for full-time graduate employment. Work experience is a critical step in starting a career and Achiever Work Experience allows students to kick-start their career while still at university, and get paid for it.” said Graham Meyer, Chief Executive Officer at the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia. 
 
Students can apply for Achiever Work Experience through Jobs Lounge, the Institute’s dedicated student job website at charteredaccountants.com.au/students. The Jobs Lounge also provides career advice for students from how to build a résumé to interview tips. Applicants for Achiever Work Experience are then short-listed for the interview process with Institute executives and HR representatives from local accounting firms. 
 
The work experience placements range from two to 12 weeks with Institute accredited firms ranging from the Big Four, government, mid-tier public practice firms and commerce organisations. The placements will mainly be taken during the 2007 summer break. 
 
The Achiever Work Experience is an annual program and the latest initiative for the Institute to help students learn more about the profession and also to help alleviate the accounting skills shortage for employers by introducing them early to the accounting talent of tomorrow.  
 
Applications for Achiever Work Experience are open until 27 August 2007. Students can visit charteredaccountants.com.au/students or contact the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia on 1300 137 322 for more information.