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How to Become a Financial Analyst: Australian Careers in Small Business

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What is a Financial Analyst?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Financial Analyst?

A financial analyst reviews data and builds models to help with investment decisions. They work in banking, corporate finance, super funds, insurance, and government. It is a broad career with strong demand across Australia.

Day-to-day work includes reading financial reports, writing summaries, and building forecasts. Financial analysts share their findings with senior staff or investors. They explain complex data clearly so leaders can make sound decisions.

Teamwork is central to the role. Analysts work with finance, marketing, and operations teams to gather data and check facts. They also help with budgeting, risk checks, and strategic plans.

The role suits people who enjoy numbers and solving problems. With experience, analysts can move into senior, portfolio, or corporate finance roles. Demand for skilled analysts is strong as organisations rely more on data to plan ahead.

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Career snapshots For Financial Analysts

Financial analysis is a thriving career in Australia. Around 24,000 people work as financial investment advisers and analysts (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). The median age is 43 years. Most analysts work full-time, with 84% in full-time roles averaging 44 hours per week.

Women make up 33% of the workforce in this field, reflecting an ongoing push for greater diversity in financial services. The sector is growing strongly. SEEK data (2025) projects job growth of 32.2% over five years. This is driven by expansion in financial services, superannuation, and corporate finance. Average salaries range from $95,000 to $115,000 a year, with senior roles paying well above that figure (Hays Salary Guide, 2025).

What will I do?

Financial analysts help organisations make smart financial decisions. They gather and analyse data, build models, and present findings to management or clients. The role covers investment advice, financial planning, risk assessment, and market research. Analysts work across banking, funds management, corporate finance, and government.

  • Client Interviews – Meet with prospective clients to assess their financial status and goals, and discuss suitable financial options.
  • Investment Monitoring – Track investment performance and adjust plans as market conditions change.
  • Insurance Recommendations – Advise clients on suitable insurance cover and arrange the necessary policies.
  • Stock and Bond Transactions – Buy and sell stocks and bonds on behalf of clients.
  • Investment Strategy Advice – Advise on investment strategies, sources of funds, and how earnings are distributed.
  • Financial Objective Setting – Set financial goals and develop strategies to reach them.
  • Fund Management – Manage funds raised through superannuation savings policies and unit trusts.
  • Service Referrals – Direct clients to other organisations for services covered in their financial plan.

What skills do I need?

Financial analysts need a mix of technical and communication skills to do their job well. On the technical side, financial modelling, data analysis, and a solid grasp of accounting principles are essential. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel is a baseline requirement for most roles. Many analysts also use tools such as SQL or Bloomberg.

Communication matters just as much. Analysts must explain complex financial data to non-specialist audiences, including executives and board members. This means writing clear reports and speaking with confidence in meetings. Problem-solving and attention to detail round out the core skill set. These help analysts spot risks and find solutions before they become issues.

Skills/attributes

  • Financial modelling and data analysis
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel
  • Financial reporting and budgeting
  • Knowledge of accounting principles
  • Investment analysis and portfolio management
  • Strong written and verbal communication
  • Problem-solving and critical thinking
  • Attention to detail
  • Forecasting and trend analysis
  • Risk assessment and management
  • Ability to work under pressure
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Time management and organisation
  • Adaptability to market changes
  • Ethical judgement and professional integrity

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About the author

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.