hi, i have a similar question as Houghtan - which i have posted on Expats forum a couple of times with no real answer - can anyone assist please?:

I have a Jt Hons BSc in Maths and Sociology, AAT (NVQ2&3&4) and a Post Grad Cert in Management. I have been exempt from Certificate Level of CIMA and am currently sitting exams for CIMA (May 08, Nov08 and May09). We are looking to move to Queensland and I will be looking for a job with Local/central Government finance ( I have 12yrs financial management experience in Local Government)
1. Can I apply as a student member of CIMA to be assessed by ICAA as I have degree/post grad quals or will I have to wait until I have completed TOPCIMA next May?
2. I read on NIA website that intial assessment of degree equivalent qual can be in any field - is this right? (mine is not in accountancy)
3. Does anyone know if QLD Government have any migrant programs for their vacancies?

thanks very much for any clarification.

To obtain a positive classification from the ICAA (or the other two competent assessing bodies) you must either have tertiary qualifications that are at least equivalent to an Australian degree, or be a member of an overseas recognised accounting body.

See the details here:
http://www.charteredaccountants.com.au/A117138529

From what you have said in your post, it seems unlikely you can secure a classification as an Accountant until you are a full member of CIMA.

Best regards.