18 July 2005 
 
The Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia will open nominations today for first year accounting students to apply for one of more than 180 prestigious paid work experience placements at Institute accredited firms across Australia.  
 
The work experience allows students to gain first hand experience in the accounting profession, helping them learn skills that may help later in their degree and more importantly, have the opportunity to make a lasting impression with a potential graduate employer.  
 
“The CA Achiever program offers students the opportunity to ensure that their CV will leap out to potential employers when they are looking for full-time employment. Students often find themselves in the catch-22 situation where employers want graduates with experience, but no one is willing to offer it to them. CA Achiever allows students to kick-start their career while still at university, and get paid for it!” said Stephen Harrison, CEO at the Institute.  
 
Students can apply for the CA Achiever program through Fly Higher at www.flyhigher.com/achiever, the Institutes website dedicated to accountancy careers advice for students. Applicants are then short-listed for the interview process with Institute executives and HR representatives from local accounting firms.  
 
The work experience placements are from two to eight 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 2005 summer break.  
 
According to CA Achiever Fiona Ball, a University of Technology Sydney student who took part in last years program, just the ability to say that you were part of CA Achiever is something employers recognise and respect.  
 
“The contacts gained, the introduction to varied work cultures and the ‘foot in the door’ are like no other opportunity you will have during university. The placement gave me valuable skills and knowledge about what it takes to work in the accountancy profession,” Ball said.  
 
Students can visit the Fly Higher website or contact the Sydney Institute of Chartered Accountants office on 02 9290 5617 for more information.