The education sector across Australia and the wider APAC region is going through a period of rapid transformation. On the one hand, there are significant challenges, while on the other, there are also exciting opportunities to innovate and rethink how institutions operate.
I work closely with the leadership team in overseeing the financial management and strategic planning of organisations operating in the sector. My responsibilities range from managing financial reporting, budgeting and cashflow planning to ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and supporting long-term business strategy.
Working in education means finance goes far beyond traditional accounting
Working in education, particularly with institutions that serve international students, means finance goes far beyond traditional accounting. It involves understanding student demand, regulatory environments and the operational realities of running education providers across different campuses and markets.
One of the biggest challenges is balancing financial sustainability with the mission of delivering quality education. The sector is constantly evolving, with changes in regulations, student mobility trends and operational costs. Navigating these dynamics requires both careful financial planning and the ability to adapt quickly.
What I enjoy most is the strategic impact finance can have on an organisation. Finance is often seen as a back-office function, but in reality it plays a key role in shaping decisions, enabling growth and ensuring organisations remain resilient. Being able to contribute to that broader vision and support institutions that ultimately impact students’ futures is something I find particularly rewarding.
I did in CAT in Sri Lanka, which naturally led me to pursue the ACCA qualification. A particularly meaningful chapter in my career came when I later had the opportunity to work for ACCA, which felt like a full-circle moment. It allowed me to engage with students, members and the wider accounting community while gaining a deeper appreciation of the global impact of the profession.
I’m particularly proud of having built a career across different countries and sectors
The ACCA qualification has been incredibly valuable in shaping my career. One of the most powerful aspects is that it truly acts as a global passport for the profession. When I moved from Sri Lanka to Australia, the qualification provided immediate recognition and credibility.
I’m particularly proud of having built a career across different countries and sectors while staying closely connected to the accounting profession. Moving to Australia was a significant step personally and professionally. Being able to establish myself in a new environment and continue progressing in my career has been very rewarding.
Outside work, I enjoy keeping a good balance between staying active and spending time with family and friends. I play cricket for the Hawthorn Boroondara Cricket Club, and love driving along the Great Ocean Road, visiting the beach or spending time in the mountains.
If I wasn’t in accounting, I think I’d most likely have pursued a career in teaching. I’ve always enjoyed explaining ideas, mentoring others and helping people understand complex concepts, so education is something that naturally interests me.
