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Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping

Learn and work at the same time. Australia's leading accounting school with built-in work placements.

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Overview of the Course

The Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping is a nationally recognized qualification that equips individuals with the essential skills and knowledge required to thrive in the accounting and bookkeeping industry. This comprehensive course is designed to prepare students for a variety of roles by teaching them how to prepare financial reports, financial statements, and business activity statements. Additionally, students will learn to manage payroll systems and handle financial transactions efficiently.

Upon successful completion of the course, students will meet the educational requirements for registration as a Business Activity Statement (BAS) agent with the Tax Practitioners Board. This certification opens doors to numerous career opportunities in the accounting and bookkeeping sectors, making it an ideal choice for those looking to establish a solid foundation in this field.

Course Details

You will learn to use essential industry tools and programs (such as MYOB, Xero and Quickbooks), plus how to prepare financial statements, forecasts and budgets, maintain a payroll system and prepare GST BAS report for companies of different sizes.

This course also prepares you for roles such as BAS Agents and contract bookkeepers, focusing on employees performing bookkeeping tasks essential for various industries. With over 20 years of industry and teaching experience, Baywater Institute’s teachers are dedicated to giving you job ready skills that make you well-equipped to compete in a challenging job market. ‍

Your teacher

Gordon Chen

With over 25 years of teaching experience, Gordon shares a passion for all things numbers and data. Formerly, he was an academic at Macquarie University, University of Technology Sydney, and visiting MBA Professor at Sun Yat-Sen University.

Curriculum

The Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping consists of 8 core units and 3 elective units, meticulously designed to provide a well-rounded education in accounting and bookkeeping principles. The core units cover critical topics such as performing routine financial calculations, financial reporting, financial statements, payroll systems, and financial transactions. These units ensure that students gain a deep understanding of the fundamentals of the industry.

In addition to the core units, students can choose from a range of elective units that allow them to specialize in specific areas of interest. These electives include computerized accounting systems, subsidiary accounts, and operational budgets. This flexible structure enables students to tailor their learning experience to their career goals and interests, ensuring they are well-prepared for the diverse demands of the accounting and bookkeeping industries.

This course is a level 4 AQTF qualification and based on the FNS40217 financial service training package.

FNSACC321

Process financial transactions & extract interim reports

You will learn to use essential industry tools and programs.

FNSACC322

Administer subsidiary accounts & ledgers

You will learn to use essential industry tools and programs.

FNSACC421

Prepare Financial Reports

You will learn to use essential industry tools and programs.

FNSACC418

Work Effectively in the Accounting & bookkeeping Industry

You will learn to use essential industry tools and programs.

FNSACC426

Set Up & Operate Computerised Accounting Systems

You will learn to use essential industry tools and programs.

FNSTPB411

Completing BAS Reports

You will learn to use essential industry tools and programs.

FNSTPB412

Establish & Maintain Payroll Systems

You will learn to use essential industry tools and programs.

FNSACC414

Prepare financial statements for non-reporting entities

You will learn to use essential industry tools and programs.

FNSACC412

Prepare operational budgets

You will learn to use essential industry tools and programs.

BSBTEC302

Develop & Produce Spreadsheet

You will learn to use essential industry tools and programs.

Real World Industry Experience

CertIV in Accounting and Bookkeeping, and the Diploma of Accounting are vocational training programs which provide students with fundamental concepts of accounting and hands on operating skills. Students are taught by teachers with extensive accounting industry experiences. Students also have many opportunities to practice their accounting skills in class and in an internship environment in an accounting firm after they complete the course.

In partnership with

BNG Consultancy

Founded in Sydney in 2005, BNG Consultancy is an Australian Financial Services firm that works with Australia's leading SME's and private entities. They have provided accounting and financial services to businesses and individuals from all walks of life.

Practical experience

Accounting is mainly driven by practical skills. Apart from understanding tax law compliance and accounting standards, students will build solid, practical experiences through the internship program.

Guaranteed Internship

Students who successfully complete a Baywater course will be guaranteed an internship in a professional accounting firm. During the internship, students will train extensively in different aspects of accounting practice. This includes work on financial statements preparation for SMEs, GST BAS PAYG quarter and annual reports, and income tax return preparation for Individual, Trust, Partnership, and Companies.

Reference Letter

Upon completion of the internship, students will receive an official reference letter from the accounting firm. This provides solid proof of experience to support their pursuit in their future accounting career.

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for the Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping, prospective students must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Have a good understanding of English language, literacy, and numeracy skills
  • Possess a basic understanding of accounting and bookkeeping principles. No prior learning is required.
  • Have access to a computer and internet for online study

This course is ideal for individuals who are looking to start a career in accounting and bookkeeping, as well as those who are already working in the industry and wish to upgrade their skills and knowledge. Whether you are a newcomer to the field or an experienced professional seeking to enhance your expertise, the Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping provides a solid foundation for success.

Professional Accreditation and Membership

The Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping is accredited by the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) and the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT). Upon completing the course, students are eligible for a free student membership with the ICB and can also apply for student membership with the AAT.

These memberships provide students with access to a wealth of professional development opportunities, networking events, and industry resources. Being part of these professional bodies not only enhances your credentials but also keeps you connected with the latest trends and developments in the accounting and bookkeeping industry. This professional recognition is invaluable as you embark on your career journey in this dynamic field.

Our Alumni

Collectively, the team at Baywater have over 30 years experience in industry and in academia. Over this time, we have produced many success stories. Here are just some of them.

"While studying 'Business Activity and Instalment Activity Statement', I worked part time at BNG Consultancy, where I developed most of my practical accounting skills. I now work at State Street specialising in the Australian market."

Yang J.

Class of '19

State Street

"The course provided by Baywater uses practical examples and detailed explanations to help me quickly understand the content of the course and solve the corresponding problems in my work in a short period of time."

Mia M.

Class of '21

Macquarie

"I learnt so much during my time at Baywater. I became experienced in using accounting software such as MYOB, bookkeeping practices, and preparing and finalising financial statements and tax returns for individuals, trusts and companies."

Catherine X.

Class of '19

China Power Grid Co

"Gordon is great. Very knowledgeable and patient. Always takes time to listen to our concerns. I highly recommend BNG."

Nina T.

Class of '21

Addsum Global

"As a busy professional juggling work and family, I found the Baywater program super supportive and flexible. The course allowed me to learn at my own pace, and the staff offered care and encouragement. It made me feel motivated for my career change."

Avril C.

Class of '23

Serenade Leather

"I was searching for a more practical course that could upskill my accounting skills. The real-world assignments gave me a taste of actual business challenges. The instructors provided insights drawn from their own experiences. This combination allowed me to level up my accounting career."

Jeff T.

Class of '24

NDIS

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