CPA Australia against replacing entry-level accounting jobs with AI

CPA Australia has cautioned companies about the potential pitfalls of replacing entry-level finance and accounting positions with AI systems.

CPA Australia business investment and international lead Gavan Ord advised firms to find a suitable equilibrium between technological advancements and the cultivation of human talent.

According to 2025 Business Technology Report, 19% of Asia-Pacific businesses have scaled back on hiring for entry-level accounting jobs because of AI integration, with mainland China experiencing a 32% reduction.

Although only 8% of Australian companies have followed this trend, Ord suggests that the figure is likely to grow as AI investment intensifies.

The research, which surveyed 1,117 professionals in the accounting and finance sectors, also shows a lack of emphasis on recruiting individuals with AI-related skills, with only 6% of businesses increasing such hires.

Respondents to the survey voiced concerns about an overreliance on AI, which could lead to a decrease in human monitoring.

According to Ord, previous survey data shows that while Australian companies have been slower to adopt AI and automation compared to businesses in China, they have now “caught the AI bug”.

“They are now the most likely among the surveyed markets to be planning AI investments in 2026, although automation remains unpopular,” Ord added.

The survey highlighted various challenges associated with the implementation of AI. A prevalent concern among respondents was the increasing reliance on AI by businesses, which has led to diminished human oversight.

Ord added: “Businesses must not underestimate the importance of keeping people in the loop. Specialist human oversight remains essential. Turning over finance functions that require accuracy, assurance and verification to technology leads to elevated risks.

“We are now seeing many high-profile examples of businesses and organisations suffering financial and reputational damage because they have swung the balance too far in favour of poorly verified AI.”

Earlier in October 2025, CPA Australia issued a statement regarding the guidance material released by AUSTRAC on the new anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) regulations.

The accounting body had acknowledged the positive intent behind the legislation but has raised issues concerning its interpretation and the potential impact on small businesses.

"CPA Australia against replacing entry-level accounting jobs with AI " was originally created and published by The Accountant, a GlobalData owned brand.

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