Skip to main content

How to become a finance manager

Take on the responsibility of an organisation’s finances including investments, expenses, payroll, and income.

Pathways to this career

  1. Complete an accredited undergraduate degree in finance, accounting, economics or business.

  2. If you've attained a similar undergraduate degree, you can focus your career pathway as a financial manager by completing a postgraduate degree in accounting or financial planning and management.

  3. Industry bodies like the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Australian Finance Industry Association offer financial managers continued professional development and information on legislative updates in the finance industry.

What does a finance manager do?

Duties and tasks

  • Assist in financial decisions made by the organisations management

  • Know the financial legal requirements and ensure that they are met

  • Manage employees in the financial division

  • Monitor an organisations accounting system

  • Prepare and communicate accurate financial reports, statements, and forecasts

  • Seek ways to reduce costs and propose long-term goals

Professional bodies

Related jobs

Discover related degrees

University of Southern Queensland

Master of Business (Finance)

PostgraduateUSQ-FIN-MAS

Delve deeper into the world of finance

Explore global markets, fintech, investor psychology, and more. Includes foundational business courses on leadership and economics. Take your business career to the next level with advanced knowledge in important finance concepts.

Study method
100% online
Duration
2 years full time or part time equivalent
Southern Cross University

Launch, manage and grow successful small businesses

Learn business skills for the real world. You’ll cover finance, marketing, operations and innovation. This course equips you to tackle challenges and thrive in small business management. Lead your venture forward with confidence. 

Study method
100% online
RMIT University

Impactful skills to drive positive change

Learn to shape sustainable workplaces—and build your business career. This course empowers you to lead change, tackle global challenges, and create sustainable success. Explore how to make a real impact where people, planet, and profit are balanced.

Study method
100% online
Griffith University

Analyse, audit, and investigate financial crime

Tackle illegal use of funds transnationally. Topics include forensic accounting and cyber security. You’ll build skills in risk management and governance. Stay on top of the changing regulatory environment. Lead organisations to manage cyber fraud risks.

Study method
100% online
Duration
2 years full time or part time equivalent
Explore finance courses

Discover related subjects

La Trobe University

Fundamentals of Finance

UndergraduateLTU-FIN1FOF

Study method
100% online
Start dates
Starts 13 Jul 2026
La Trobe University

Introduction to Finance

UndergraduateLTU-FIN1002

Study method
100% online
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Start dates
Starts 2 Mar 2026, 13 Jul 2026
Griffith University

Personal Finance

UndergraduateGRF-AFE120

Study method
100% online
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Start dates
Starts 2 Mar 2026, 13 Jul 2026
Curtin University

Introduction to Finance Principles

UndergraduateCUR-FNCE2000

Study method
100% online
Start dates
Starts 2 Mar 2026, 31 Aug 2026

Need help making study choices for your career?

Student advisor working on a laptop in OUA’s bright and modern office atrium
Matthew is part of our team of student advisors here to answer your questions.

Need help making study choices for your career?

Our student advisors will turn your aspirations into a clear study path.

They'll help you with:

  • Choosing and enrolling in the right course for your desired career, including pathway options.

  • Mapping a study plan that allows you to balance work and home commitments.

  • Understanding eligibility for funding, including HECS-HELP loans.

Get unbiased advice at no cost today.

Looking for other ways to start the conversation? Contact us

Step up your career with these resources

5 of the best study paths to choose when you have kids

Want to find a career that pays well, but offers you the flexibility to be there for your family? Here are some of the best study options for parents who are craving better work/life balance.

Skip minimum wage with these high-paying entry-level jobs for uni graduates

Not all salaries are created equal, but with a university qualification under your belt, landing an entry-level role doesn't necessarily mean low pay. Is your dream job on this list?

What is an economist?

Economists can have a real impact on the wellbeing of others. Let’s take a closer look at this fascinating and important profession.

Will AI take my job?

Is AI taking over jobs? We do a deep dive into the impending age of AI and weigh up whether AI is really a risk to our jobs, or if the real issue is one of being left behind.