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Finance, Accounting & ESG Salary Guide 2025-26: Insights for strategic hiring and career growth

Amid global uncertainties, rising inflation, and transformative technologies like AI, Australia’s finance, accounting, and environmental, social & governance (ESG) sectors remain stable. There is consistent demand for skilled professionals and an upward trend in wage growth. Still, moderate growth may be constrained by hiring mismatches. There is a critical need for candidates who can keep up to date with AI trends while building authentic stakeholder relationships.

Our 2025-26 Salary Guide outlines current salary data for finance, accounting and ESG roles, as well as essential insights into employment trends to help you make informed employment decisions.

Download the Moir Group 2025-26 Salary Guide here.

Stability and constraint in Australia’s labour market

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reports a 3.3% annual wage growth in the private sector over the past 12 months to March 2025. While the private sector remained unchanged from December 2024, the public sector’s annual rise increased from 2.9% in the December quarter of 2024 to 3.6% in March 2025.

According to Mark Thirlwell, Chief Economist at Australian Institute of Company Directors, the latest set of Labour Account numbers  remain steady at 2.1%, yet elevated compared to the pre-pandemic average of 1.4%. This suggests “tight labour market conditions and the possibility of a labour market matching issue for businesses,” Mark commented.

These trends show a relatively stable labour market underpinned by consistent wage growth and low unemployment. Finding the right person for the role remains key to maintaining upward trends.

The gender pay gap

The Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) reports that Australia’s national gender pay gap is 11.9%, a slightly narrower gap from 2024. In November 2024, average weekly earnings for women were $1826.40 and $2072.7 for men. This equates to an annual gap of $12,807.60.

The median gender pay gap (total remuneration) has decreased slightly in both the public sector (6.4%) and the private sector (8.9%). According to WGEA CEO Mary Wooldridge, these latest statistics show that “…although we are seeing positive results and progress, there’s still work to do.”

Emerging skills and market trends

Emma Walsh, Senior Manager of Accounting and Finance Recruitment (Contract and Interim) identified the following key market insights, which are shaping the finance and accounting sectors:

  • Tight candidate market continues: The continuing shortage of qualified accountants, especially at the mid to senior level, is driving employers to compete for strong candidates. Major draw cards on offer include speed to hire and hybrid workplace flexibility.
  • FP&A & commercial finance in high demand: To support strategic planning, there is a strong focus on FP&A, budgeting, and forecasting, with Finance Business Partner roles increasingly valued. Organisations want professionals who can influence outcomes – not just report on them.
  • Leadership skills in focus: Leadership skills are in high demand. Top employers are seeking professionals with the ability to manage technical demands and drive team performance.
  • Technology skills are a must: As automation reduces routine tasks, value is shifting toward analytical capability and strategic decision support. Employers increasingly expect tech-driven professionals who are proficient in ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, Netsuite) and BI tools (Power BI, Tableau).
  • Growth in the non-profit sector: Finance functions within non-profits are maturing, creating the demand for accountants with FP&A and grant reporting experience. There is a specific need for candidates who understand government funding compliance and reporting frameworks.
  • Regulatory and compliance pressures rising: Tax, audit, and treasury roles are growing as ASIC, ATO, and ESG compliance requirements become more complex. Candidates with experience in IFRS, FBT, BAS/IAS, and internal controls are highly sought after.

 

“There is a growing need for those who can effectively partner with the business on sustainability, performance, and strategy. They also need to demonstrate commercial agility, tech fluency, and a strong grasp of automation and business partnering.”

          — Senior Manager, Accountancy and Finance Recruitment, Emma Walsh

 

A renewed phase of growth and transformation in ESG roles

According to Moir Group’s ESG practice, the ESG sector continues to evolve rapidly in 2025. It is driven by a combination of regulatory pressure, investor expectations, and internal strategic focus.

  • Regulatory momentum: As mandatory climate-related reporting frameworks come into effect this year, organisations are prioritising ESG capabilities and disclosures. This has led to heightened demand for skilled ESG practitioners, particularly in reporting and impact assessment roles.
  • Investment growth: According to Moir Group’s ESG Division leadership, 90% of companies plan to increase their ESG investment over the next three years. Key focus areas include hiring specialist ESG talent, investing in ESG software, and enhancing internal education.
  • Key development priorities: Climate change and net-zero strategy development remain top of mind, followed by governance reform and greater transparency in social impact.
  • Talent challenge: With demand expected to outstrip supply in the next five years, the war for ESG staff is real — particularly in mid-to-senior leadership positions. The salary ranges for ESG professionals are reflecting this demand.

The technology transforming tomorrow

AI and Machine Learning (ML) are continuing to reshape the finance, accounting and ESG sectors. Cloud and SaaS tools are enhancing cross sector collaboration across all sectors. AI is becoming a powerful enabler in ESG reporting and operations.

Moir Group has identified three significant trends affecting the ESG sector:

  • Improved data collection: By helping to automate and validate ESG data, AI tools are reducing manual work and increasing accuracy.
  • Real-time monitoring: Businesses are leveraging AI to track carbon emissions, governance risk, and supply chain ethics in real time.
  • Strategic insights: With AI analysing ESG metrics, companies are making more informed decisions aligned to long-term sustainability goals.

5 top tips for hiring the right person for the role

Aligning top staff to your business requires strategically attracting, integrating and retaining people who can help to move your company forward. Here are our 5 top tips for hiring the right person for the role:

  1. Ensure that your company’s purpose, long-term vision and values are clearly articulated in your recruitment strategies.
  2. Understand the skills, behaviours and attributes that align with your specific business needs – not just generally successful traits.
  3. Highlight how your business contributes to broader goals, for example, innovation, sustainability and social impact.
  4. Prioritise cultural fit and diversity alongside technical skills to create an enjoyable recruitment process and lead to hiring success.
  5. Partner with specialist recruiters who know your sector. Moir Group’s deep expertise across finance, accounting and ESG ensures a strong track record of placing high-performing professionals in key roles.

Want more insights to support smart hiring decisions? Download our 2025-26 Finance, Accounting, and ESG Salary Guide for up-to-date salary benchmarks and market trends across finance, accounting and ESG.

 

If you have any recruitment needs in your team on a permanent or temporary basis we would be delighted to assist.

Moir Group is a specialist finance, accounting and ESG recruitment company. We cover temporary and permanent roles from Financial Accountant to CFO level. We also recruit Sustainability and ESG Reporting positions across all industry sectors.

Kelly-Ann Arthur

Senior Manager, Accounting & Finance Recruitment (Contract & Interim)

Kelly-Ann brings seventeen years’ experience across recruitment and career development. She began her career in finance within investment banking in London before moving into finance recruitment after relocating to Sydney.

Kelly-Ann joined Moir Group in 2018. During her tenure, she’s recruited interim and permanent finance roles across all levels, including C-suite. She is currently focused on Contract and Interim Finance recruitment, partnering with organisations to quickly connect them with high-calibre talent through her extensive network and deep knowledge of the market.

Also an experienced career coach, Kelly-Ann brings a consultative approach to recruitment, taking the time to understand candidates’ motivations and career goals alongside partnering closely with clients as a trusted adviser. She looks beyond the immediate hiring need to understand the wider challenges and team dynamics, helping organisations secure talent that will thrive and make a meaningful impact.

Kelly-Ann Arthur

Senior Manager
Accountancy and Finance Recruitment (Contract and Interim)

Sunny Chen

Senior Consultant, Accountancy and Finance Recruitment (Permanent)

Sunny is a CPA-qualified accountant with over 10 years’ experience across finance and accounting roles in a wide range of industries. She brings a practical, real-world understanding of how finance teams operate.

With a strong technical and commercial background, Sunny can quickly get to the heart of a business’s needs and turn them into smart, well-matched hiring solutions for finance and accounting professionals.

Sunny has a strong track record of recruiting high-calibre mid to senior-level candidates and takes a consultative, partnership-led approach to every search. By working closely with both clients and candidates, Sunny focuses on understanding long-term goals and building genuine, lasting relationships.

Aligned with Moir Group’s commitment to quality outcomes and long-term partnerships, Sunny is focused on creating value for both organisations and the people within them.

Sunny Chen - Senior Consultant Accountancy and Finance Recruitment (Permanent) at Moir Group

Sunny Chen

Senior Consultant
Accountancy and Finance Recruitment (Permanent)

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    Tabibah Paean

    Senior Financial Accountant

    With over 9 years of experience in financial accounting, Tabibah brings a wealth of expertise to our team as a Senior Financial Accountant. Specialising in external reporting, financial reporting and analysis, and payroll, she excels in ensuring accurate financial records and providing strategic insights that drive organisational growth.

    Tabibah is a Certified Chartered Accountant, underscoring her commitment to professional excellence. She is adept at navigating complex financial landscapes and optimising processes to enhance efficiency and transparency.

    Passionate about leveraging technological advancements to streamline business processes, Tabibah is dedicated to delivering meticulous financial management and fostering a culture of integrity and excellence within our organisation.

    Tabibah Paean, Senior Financial Accountant at Moir Group

    Tabibah Paean

    Senior Financial Accountant

    Rachael Gleeson

    Operations Coordinator, Commercial Recruitment & Reception

    Rachael started with Moir Group in February 2022 and is currently in the role of Operations Assistant. She is first point of contact with phone enquiries and supporting the Operations Team in all functions

    Rachael Gleeson, Operations Coordinator - Commercial Recruitment & Reception at Moir Group

    Rachael Gleeson

    Operations Coordinator
    Commercial Recruitment & Reception

    Chloe Thomas

    Operations Coordinator, Executive Recruitment & Events

    Chloe has been an integral part of Moir Group since 2017, supporting the Executive Recruitment, Permanent Recruitment and ESG teams while helping drive the smooth day-to-day operations of the business. She also manages Moir Group’s events, LinkedIn presence and social media engagement.

    With more than 12 years’ experience across professional services, Chloe brings expertise in operations, stakeholder engagement, event management and business support. Known for her proactive approach and attention to detail, she is passionate about delivering exceptional experiences for clients, candidates and colleagues.

    Chloe Thomas, Operations Coordinator Executive Recruitment & Events at Moir Group

    Chloe Thomas

    Operations Coordinator
    Executive Recruitment & Events

    Coralee Stanton

    Executive Assistant to Stephen Moir & Office Manager

    Coralee joined Moir Group in July 2019 as Executive Assistant to our Director Stephen Moir and Office Manager, ensuring the smooth running of our office, overseeing events and managing our Operations Team.

    She brings over 15 years’ experience as an Executive Assistant supporting CEO, C-Suite Executives and Board Members for major Logistics and Information Technology companies.

    Prior to that, Coralee spent 10 years in Office & Administration Management for HR and Recruitment companies.

    Coralee Stanton, Executive Assistant to Stephen Moir & Office Manager at Moir Group

    Coralee Stanton

    Executive Assistant to Stephen Moir & Office Manager

    Vanessa Fortune

    Recruitment Resourcer, Accountancy and Finance Recruitment (Contract and Interim)

    Vanessa is a Recruitment Resourcer in Moir Group’s Temporary and Contracting team. Supporting the contract team, she plays a key role in the end-to-end recruitment process, including sourcing, candidate management, and maintaining strong pipelines of skilled professionals to ensure a quick turnaround for urgent hiring needs.

    With a background in Business Administration, Vanessa brings strong organisational skills and a focus on streamlining recruitment processes. She is passionate about enhancing the candidate experience and providing efficient, high-quality support across all stages of the hiring process.

    Vanessa Fortune, Recruitment Resourcer Accountancy and Finance Recruitment (Contract and Interim) at Moir Group

    Vanessa Fortune

    Recruitment Resourcer
    Accountancy and Finance Recruitment (Contract and Interim)

    Natalie Truong

    Senior Consultant, Accountancy and Finance Recruitment (Contract and Interim)

    With over 15 years of experience across a broad range of industries both in Australia and internationally, Natalie brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep understanding of fast-paced, dynamic business environments.

    A seasoned Senior Leader, Natalie has a proven track record of delivering strong outcomes by identifying and placing high-calibre professionals into roles where they can thrive. Her expertise spans mid to senior-level and C-suite appointments, and she has successfully supported organisations in building high-performing teams to drive business growth in competitive markets.

    Natalie’s approach is aligned with Moir Group’s core values of integrity, care, and delivering quality outcomes. She works closely with business leaders and decision-makers, forming strategic partnerships to ensure a strong alignment between client needs and candidate aspirations. Her recruitment style is highly relationship-driven, focused on building long-term connections that support sustainable career and business success.

    Natalie is especially passionate about connecting senior finance and accounting professionals with purpose-led organisations, creating opportunities where individuals can grow, contribute meaningfully, and align with company culture and values.

    Natalie Truong, Senior Consultant Accountancy and Finance Recruitment (Permanent) at Moir Group

    Natalie Truong

    Senior Consultant
    Accountancy and Finance Recruitment (Contract and Interim)

    Deborah Swaine

    Senior Consultant, Accountancy and Finance Recruitment (Contract and Interim)

    Deborah began her recruitment career in London and has 14 years of experience, including in-house roles across various industries. She cultivates an innovative and inclusive culture that inspires, engages, and connects skilled professionals with opportunities, building capability for both now and the future.

    Deborah excels in providing bespoke solutions to clients and candidates, building genuine business partnerships, and offering a consultative service. She has a successful track record of recruiting a wide range of roles across all levels and industries. Deborah is committed to providing a first-class service and enjoys partnering closely with both clients and candidates to find the best solutions and create long-term relationships.

    Deborah Swaine, Senior Consultant Accountancy and Finance Recruitment (Contract and Interim) at Moir Group

    Deborah Swaine

    Senior Consultant
    Accountancy and Finance Recruitment (Contract and Interim)

    Lisa Tracy

    Manager, Moir Group ESG

    Lisa is an expert in recruiting ESG and Sustainability Professionals. Over the last 15 years, she has sourced Heads of Sustainability, Chief Sustainability Officers, ESG experts and a variety of management and analyst roles across a broad spectrum of industry sectors. She has focused on working in partnership with leaders to attract and retain the highest calibre team members, whilst prioritising positive social and environmental impacts. Joining Moir Group in 2023, Lisa brings her skills and expertise to develop the new ESG Division.

    Lisa continues to teach as a casual academic in Sustainability and Climate Change Impact at the University of Sydney Business School. She is also retained as an external coach to the MBA Program. She designed the successful MBA Career Academy before transitioning her Sustainability Recruitment Firm, founded in 2008, into a coaching practice. Before Moir Group, Lisa acted as Program Manager for the Climate Solutions Partnership – a global program with WWF, HSBC and WRI. She co-designed climate innovation challenges to mobilise impact investment into climate technology ventures. Her experience brings perspective to client and candidate needs in the ESG space.

    Lisa Tracy

    Manager
    Moir Group ESG

    Andrew Pownall

    Senior Associate, Executive Search

    Andrew has over twenty years’ experience gained from recruiting in a variety of disciplines, including finance, procurement, supply chain as well as engineering and manufacturing.

    At Moir Group Andrew focuses on executive-level finance search across the greater Sydney region (including Western Sydney) and in Melbourne. Andrew has successfully executed a number of roles for a mix of ASX listed, large multinationals and SME’s.

    Candidate-focused in his approach, Andrew is passionate about supporting people with their overall job-search strategy. He is skilled at helping senior finance professionals perfect their personal brand and fine-tune their approach to securing a fulfilling executive position.

     

    Andrew Pownall - Senior Associate Executive Search at Moir Group

    Andrew Pownall

    Senior Associate
    Executive Search

    Emma Walsh

    Chief Executive Officer, Senior Contract & Interim Executive Recruitment (Accountancy & Finance)

    Emma has over 25 years’ experience in the accountancy and finance recruitment sector and is recognised for her strategic leadership, commercial acumen and ability to build high-performing teams.

    Since joining Moir Group in 2010, Emma has played a key role in shaping the organisation’s growth and direction. She provides clear leadership and vision, ensuring the business remains responsive to market conditions while delivering strong outcomes for clients and candidates.

    Emma brings deep market insight across CFO, Financial Controller, Finance Manager, commercial and change leadership, analyst, and transformation appointments. She works with ASX-listed organisations, global corporates, high-growth businesses and start-ups.

    An authentic and values-led leader, Emma is known for building collaborative, accountable and high-performing teams. She is committed to developing people and supporting organisations through growth and change.

    Emma began her recruitment career in the UK before returning to Australia in 2003. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Technology, Sydney.

    Emma Walsh - Chief Executive Officer at Moir Group

    Emma Walsh

    Chief Executive Officer
    Senior Contract & Interim Executive Recruitment (Accountancy & Finance)

    Stephen Moir

    Executive Chair, Moir Group

    Prior to establishing Moir Group, Stephen spent 17 years with a leading international recruitment firm. He progressed through the business and was Managing Director for the operations in Australia. He left to establish Moir Group in early 2007.

    Stephen firmly believes that work is a big part of people’s lives and that having a satisfying job is a big part of having a fulfilling life. Stephen has had great success in delivering on this belief.  He stands by Moir Group’s values of Care, Partnership, Rigour, and Persistence, and they underpin everything he does.

    He always focuses on cultural fit, service and sourcing the right people for his clients, realising that, when Moir Group do their job really well, they have a significant impact on organisations and people’s lives. The result is that Moir’s candidates build successful careers with great retention for the organisations they are placed with.

    Stephen Moir - Executive Chair, Moir Group

    Stephen Moir

    Executive Chair
    Moir Group

    Rio-Jane Porter

    Senior Consultant, Accountancy and Finance Recruitment (Contract and Interim)

    Rio joined Moir Group in June 2019, as a Senior Recruitment Consultant for the Temporary/Contracting team, after relocating from Queensland. She has over 20 years’ experience in the recruitment industry, including several years spent working in the UK. Having recruited for both Commercial & NFP organisations.

    Rio possesses strong communication and relationship-building skills, and has a proven track record in contingency recruitment, account/compliance management, complaints handling and internal auditing. She is excited to bring her passion for customer service and compliance to Moir Group and help support our candidates on their career journey.

    Rio-Jane Porter Senior Consultant Accountancy and Finance Recruitment (Contract and Interim) at Moir Group

    Rio-Jane Porter

    Senior Consultant
    Accountancy and Finance Recruitment (Contract and Interim)