Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping

This course will provide you with a solid foundation to begin your financial career.

You will learn accounting principles as well as develop skills to perform a range of duties in the financial sector.

Our qualified trainers will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills in:

preparing financial reports processing of financial transactions and interim reporting administering subsidiary accounts and ledgers computerised accounting systems and cloud-based systems business activity and instalment activity statements payroll systems.

When you graduate, you’ll have the confidence and ability to gain employment in an accounting support role, or go on to further study.

To be awarded the FNS40217 Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping, a student must successfully complete a total of thirteen (13) units of competency, comprising of:

• eight (8) core units, and;
• five (5) elective units, of which:
• all five (5) may be selected from the units listed in the FNS40217 Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping qualification;
• up to two (2) units may be selected from a Certificate III, Certificate IV or Diploma in any currently endorsed training package or accredited course, provided they do not duplicate the outcome of another unit chosen for the qualification.

Electives must be industry relevant as well as be approved by Victoria University Polytechnic.

Course structure and units

CORE UNITS

• BSBFIA401 - Prepare financial reports
• BSBSMB412 - Introduce cloud computing into business operations
• FNSACC311 - Process financial transactions and extract interim reports
• FNSACC312 - Administer subsidiary accounts and ledgers
• FNSACC408 - Work effectively in the accounting and bookkeeping industry
• FNSACC416 - Set up and operate a computerised accounting system
• FNSTPB401 - Complete business activity and instalment activity statements
• FNSTPB402 - Establish and maintain payroll systems

ELECTIVE UNITS

• BSBITU402 - Develop and use complex spreadsheets
• FNSACC411 - Process business tax requirements
• FNSACC313 - Perform financial calculations
• FNSACC414 - Prepare financial statements for non-reporting entities

Imported

• BSBWRT401 - Write complex documents

Recognition of Prior Learning and/or Credit Transfers

Previous completion of units at the Polytechnic or any other Registered Training Organisation and/or previous attainment of skills and knowledge may be credited towards this course. Units must satisfy the completion rules of the qualification and be assessed as appropriate by the Polytechnic.

Meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee you entry into this course. Some courses receive more applications than the number of places available. In this situation we will also assess your education, work and other relevant experience.

If you do not meet the minimum requirements you may be eligible for one of our special admission programs. We also encourage you to explore our study pathways to help you reach your goal.

Find out more about how to apply for our courses, and our commitment to admissions transparency.

Entry requirements

Prior to enrolment, all applicants will be required to complete a literacy and numeracy assessment to assist with determining eligibility and to identify learning support needs.

Pathways from VU courses

There are many ways you can start your education journey at VU. Pathways offer an easy transition between courses at different levels, so that you can start with a certificate and progress right through to postgraduate study.

Find out more about pathways and credits.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

You may be able to complete your qualification sooner through formal recognition of your existing skills. This is known as Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

To receive RPL, we assess your previous work, education and life experiences against recognised qualifications. Applications for RPL can be made prior to enrolling.

Call us on 1300 TAFE VP (1300 823 387) to discuss RPL options with the course manager.

This qualification reflects the job roles of workers in the accounting industry, including BAS Agents and contract bookkeepers; and of those employees performing bookkeeping tasks for organisations in a range of industries. It includes preparing and lodging business and instalment activity statements, and providing advice or dealing with the Commissioner on behalf of a taxpayer in relation to activity statements. Individuals in these roles apply theoretical and specialist knowledge and skills to work autonomously, and exercise judgement in completing routine and non-routine activities.

Licensing/Regulatory Information Work functions in the occupational areas where this qualification may be used are subject to regulatory requirements. Refer to the FNS Financial Services Training Package Companion Volume Implementation Guide or the relevant regulator for specific guidance on requirements.

Persons providing a business activity statement (BAS) service for a fee or other reward must be registered by the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB) and this qualification is currently cited as meeting the TPB education requirements for registration. Other conditions apply, including a designated period of experience. Persons seeking BAS agent registration should check current registration requirements with the TPB, as registration requirements are reviewed regularly.