Kickstart your finance career in Australia with our practical guide, covering education, networking, internships, mentorship and more.
So, you’re thinking about a career in finance – awesome! 🎉 Whether you dream of being an investment analyst, financial advisor, fintech founder or CFO one day, the finance industry in Australia offers exciting opportunities to make an impact. But breaking into this field can feel daunting, especially when you don’t see many women around you in finance lectures or office teams. The good news is that times are changing. With the right approach and support, you can launch a successful finance career and thrive. Consider this guide a friendly road map from a mentor who’s got your back. We’ll cover the practical steps – from gaining qualifications to finding mentors – that will help you get started in finance with confidence.
1. Build Your Financial Foundations (Education & Qualifications)
A strong foundation in financial knowledge will open doors for you. Most finance roles require at least a bachelor’s degree, so studying finance or a related field is a common starting point. Many women in finance kick off with degrees in finance, accounting, economics or commerce. Australian universities often have scholarships and initiatives to encourage women in these fields. (For example, there are “women in finance” scholarships at several universities and even joint programs with industry – such as the UTS/RBC Pathways for Women in Finance scholarship that combines funding with a work placement)
Beyond university, consider earning professional certifications that are well-regarded in the finance sector. Depending on your interests, this could be a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) for investment roles, Certified Practising Accountant (CPA) or CA for accounting, or even specialized certificates like Financial Planning or Risk Management. Certifications show employers you mean business and have honed technical skills. They can also be a great way to network (more on that soon!) by connecting you with others pursuing the same qualifications.
Tip: Don’t worry if you didn’t major in finance initially – many people pivot from science, engineering, maths or other fields into finance by doing a master’s degree or graduate diploma in finance. What matters is building that core skill set in analysis, numbers, and understanding markets. Figure out which path excites you most, and invest in learning the fundamentals.
2. Gain Practical Experience Early (Internships & Grad Programs)
Classroom learning is valuable, but nothing beats real experience. Try to get a taste of the finance work environment as early as you can – it will boost your skills and your confidence. While you’re studying, look for internships, summer analyst programs, or work experience opportunities. Many banks, superannuation funds, fintech startups, and consulting firms in Australia offer internships targeted at students (often penultimate-year students). Some even have programs specifically for women. For example, Morgan Stanley Australia’s Women in Banking scholarship provides mentorship plus an internship for female uni students These programs give you hands-on experience and sometimes even a fast-track to a job offer. Our program here at F3 can also help you gain that real world experience as well - apply here if you’re interested in joining one of our cohorts!
If you’ve just graduated, consider applying for graduate programs at major financial institutions. Companies like the big four banks, investment banks, and “Big 4” accounting firms have structured graduate intake programs that rotate you through different departments. It’s an excellent way to learn and figure out what area of finance you enjoy most .Grad programs also often come with training and a cohort of peers – instant network! Keep an eye out for grad program applications in your final year of uni (they often open early in the year). And don’t be discouraged by imposter syndrome if you see competitive requirements; remember that they want diverse candidates and you have strengths to offer.
What if you can’t land a formal program immediately? Volunteer for experience. Join a university investment club and manage a mock portfolio, or offer to help a small business with their bookkeeping or financial modeling. Even running the finances for a uni society or a community project shows initiative. The key is to get involved and apply your skills in practical ways – those experiences will shine on your CV and give you stories to talk about in interviews.
3. Network and Find Mentors (Your Support Squad)
You might have heard the saying, “It’s not just what you know, but who you know.” In finance, building a professional network can open doors that online job applications alone might not. Now, “networking” can sound intimidating or even a bit fake, but it doesn’t have to be! Think of it as simply meeting people who share your professional interests. Start small and genuine: connect with guest speakers who visit your class, chat with fellow interns or colleagues, and attend events for young professionals.
One great strategy is to join women-in-finance networks or industry groups in Australia. Organisations like Women in Banking and Finance (WiBF) or the Australian Women in Finance (AWF) host networking events, seminars and mentoring programs. These groups are full of friendly professionals who want to see more young women succeed in finance – they can become your champions and advisors. Don’t be shy about attending their mixers or webinars; you might meet a future mentor or employer there. Also consider joining broader finance associations (FINSIA, CFA Society, CPA Australia, etc.), many of which have student memberships and events.
Speaking of mentors, finding a mentor can be a game-changer. A mentor is an experienced professional who can offer guidance, answer your questions and help you navigate your early career. You can seek mentors through formal programs (WiBF, universities and even some employers have mentorship schemes) or organically by building relationships. For instance, if you intern at a bank, you might click with a manager or senior analyst who can continue advising you after the internship. Don’t hesitate to reach out – people are often flattered to be asked for advice about their career path. When you do find a mentor, come prepared with questions and goals so they know how to help. And remember, mentorship is not just a one-way street; showing enthusiasm and gratitude makes it rewarding for them too.
(Need tips on finding the right mentor and making the most of that relationship? Check out our guide “How do I find a mentor?” for advice tailored to women in finance.)
4. Embrace Technology and Innovation (Fintech Skills)
Finance today isn’t all about ledgers and calculators – it’s a fast-evolving industry driven by technology. An exciting area for young women to break into is fintech (financial technology) and digital finance. You don’t have to be a coding genius, but being tech-savvy will give you an edge. Try to pick up skills in data analysis, Excel, or even basic programming (Python and SQL are widely used for financial analysis). An understanding of emerging trends like blockchain, digital payments, or AI in finance can set you apart from other grads. There are plenty of online courses on these topics if your uni doesn’t cover them – platforms like Coursera or Udemy have modules on fintech, crypto, and more.
Why does this matter? Because the future of finance is being shaped right now by innovation. Australian fintech is a growing sector, but women are underrepresented in it (only ~13% of fintech leaders are female, as mentioned earlier. That means huge opportunity for young women with an interest in tech and finance to make their mark. You could be developing the next budgeting app, working on sustainable investing algorithms, or helping banks use data to serve customers better. FinTech Australia and other industry bodies often host hackathons, “women in fintech” panels, and startup incubators – getting involved can plug you into a very dynamic community. Plus, tech skills can make you more efficient and effective in any finance role, traditional or tech-centric. It’s all about staying curious and upskilling continuously.
5. Overcoming Challenges: Confidence and Inclusivity
Let’s be real – as a young woman in finance, you might encounter some challenges. The finance industry is making progress on diversity, but you could still find yourself in a team where you’re the only woman, or notice subtle biases like assumptions that you’re in a junior role when you’re not. Don’t let this discourage you. Instead, go in prepared and confident in your abilities. Remember that you’ve earned your place at the table through your studies and hard work.
One common hurdle many women face is imposter syndrome – that sneaky feeling that you’re not good enough, or you’ll be “found out” as a fraud. If those thoughts creep in, know that you are far from alone (even senior women in finance have been there!). Counteract imposter feelings by reminding yourself of your achievements – keep a little list of wins or praise you’ve received, and revisit it when self-doubt strikes. Also, talk to peers or mentors about it; you’ll often find they have felt the same and can reassure you. The truth is, if you’re in the room, you dobelong there. Companies hire you because they see your potential. Trust that, and give yourself permission to learn and grow on the job.
Another tip: seek out inclusive employers. Research companies’ diversity and inclusion policies. Do they have women in leadership? Do they offer flexible work arrangements or programs for emerging female leaders? Many Australian finance employers now promote their commitment to gender equality (some even report to WGEA on their progress). An organisation that values diversity will have things like bias awareness training, supportive parental leave, and pay equity reviews. These are green flags that it’s a place where you can thrive. And if you land in a less-than-ideal environment, remember you have choices – your skills are in demand, and you can find a team that appreciates you.
Lastly, build your crew of supportive colleagues and friends. Surround yourself with people who encourage your ambitions. Join your company’s women’s network if they have one, or an external one like F3 – Future Females in Finance (hey, that’s us!) where you can meet like-minded ladies across the industry. Having peers to share experiences, vent, and celebrate wins with will keep you motivated. The finance world might have its challenges, but it’s also filled with allies and trailblazers ready to help you succeed.
(There are also many advocates working to make finance more inclusive. For example, see “How to Support Young Women Entering the Finance Industry,” which highlights ways companies and mentors can help women thrive. Rest assured, you have a growing community rooting for you!)
6. Commit to Lifelong Learning (Keep Growing Your Skills)
A finance career is not a one-and-done deal – the most successful professionals are always learning. The financial landscape changes with new regulations, market trends, and technologies, so adopting a lifelong learning mindset will serve you well. Even after you land that first job, look for ways to keep building your knowledge. This could mean taking short courses (many finance folks do further study part-time, like a CFA program or a Master of Finance), attending industry workshops, or simply staying up-to-date with financial news and podcasts.
Make a habit of following trends: for instance, how are sustainable investments (ESG) evolving? What’s happening in the Australian economy that could affect banking jobs? Being informed not only makes you better at your job, it also makes you more confident in conversations at work. Employers love team members who show curiosity and initiative to keep improving their skills. It could be as simple as saying, “I’d like to learn more about X – could I attend this conference or take an online course?” Many will be happy to support that, as it benefits them too.
Don’t underestimate soft skills either. Communication, negotiation, time management – these are critical in finance roles and you can always refine them. For example, you might take a public speaking class to ace those client presentations, or a negotiation workshop to feel more confident asking for a pay rise or closing deals. (Fun fact: there are finance groups that run women-focused negotiation seminars, recognizing that mastering this skill is key for career advancement. 💼👍)
Your Journey Starts Now
Entering the world of finance can seem intimidating, but remember: you have what it takes to succeed. With solid preparation, a willingness to learn, and a support network behind you, you’ll be ready to seize the opportunities that come your way. Each step – from acing that exam, to getting that internship, to speaking up in a meeting – builds your confidence and expertise. And as you progress, you won’t just be climbing the ladder for yourself; you’ll also become a role model for other young women in finance.
So go ahead and take that first step. Enrol in a finance course, apply for that internship, attend a networking event, or message a potential mentor on LinkedIn. Every action is a building block for your future. The finance industry in Australia needs your talent and perspective, and there’s a community of women (and men) ready to welcome you and cheer you on. We’re excited to see what you’ll achieve – whether you end up managing a big investment fund, leading a fintech startup, or championing financial literacy in your community.
Finance is a path of impact, opportunity, and growth. By stepping into it, you’re not only unlocking a rewarding career for yourself, but also contributing to a more diverse and dynamic financial sector. So gear up, believe in yourself, and let’s show the world what women in finance can do! 🚀
Remember, this is just the beginning of your journey. Keep learning, keep connecting with others, and most importantly, enjoy the process. Your future in finance is bright – and we can’t wait to see you shine. Good luck! 🙌
References:
Universities Admissions Centre (NSW/ACT). Pathways into Finance Degrees.
UTS Business School. RBC Pathways for Women in Finance Scholarship.
https://www.uts.edu.au/scholarship/rbc-pathways-women-finance
Morgan Stanley Australia. Women in Banking Scholarship.
https://www.morganstanley.com/articles/women-in-banking-scholarship
CPA Australia. Becoming a CPA.
CFA Institute (Australia). Chartered Financial Analyst Program.
Women in Banking and Finance (WiBF). Programs and Events.
Australian Women in Finance Awards (Momentum Media).
FinTech Australia. Industry Growth and Jobs Data.
Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA). Employer Gender Pay Gap Reports 2024.
Coursera / Udemy. Fintech & Data Analytics Courses (for online learning examples).