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CPA Australia / CPAA Designation
The Certified Practicing Accountants of Australia (CPA Australia) and the Certified General Accountants Association of Canada (CGA Canada) announced a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) in 2008, providing a route for qualified members of either body to become a member of the other body ... and enjoy the benefits of both organizations.
CGAs working internationally (or with multinational organizations) will find the CPA Australia designation is a valuable addition to their resume, opening up a large network of CPA Australia members around the world. Obtaining the CPAA designation will help employers in some markets better understand that the two designations are equivalent.
In Alberta, the accounting profession is governed by the Regulated Accounting Profession Act (RAPA) and recognizes three designations (CGA, CA and CMAs). Within the Act, the issues of recognized accounting designations as well as protection of title are addressed. It is recommended that CGA Alberta members use the CGA designation only (on business cards, letterhead, etc), and not use the CPA designation in Alberta. The use of the Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA) designation may cause confusion or may imply that the person is authorized to use the initials set out in Section 3 of the Schedule 1 of RAPA (list of protected titles).
CPA Australia is the sixth largest accounting body in the world, with a membership of more than 117,000 finance, accounting and business professionals. Fifty per cent of employers surveyed in 19 industry sectors throughout Australia say "CPA is the designation they look for" ... more than 20 per cent above the nearest designation. Almost 20,000 members hold the position of general manager, financial controller, chief financial officer or chief executive officer.
CGA Canada sets standards, develops education programs, publishes professional materials, advocates on public policy issues, and represents CGAs nationally and internationally. CGA Canada represents over 71,000 CGAs and students in Canada, Bermuda, the Caribbean, Hong Kong, and China. CGA is the fastest-growing accounting designation in Canada. The CGA designation focuses on integrity, ethics and the highest education requirements. Recognized as the country's accounting business leaders, CGAs provide strategic counsel, financial leadership, and overall direction to all sectors of the Canadian economy.
FAQs - MRA - Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
CPA Australia Application Form - for CGA Members
CPA Australia Application Form - for CPA Australia Members
For further information, please email CGA Alberta at 
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