How to handle a conflict of interest
INTHEBLACK
As accountants, conflicts of interest can arise. Some say they are unavoidable. But knowing how to manage them is crucial. This episode explores how such conflicts arise – from client relationships to commercial pressures – and why managing them is critical to upholding trust in the profession. You will learn: why conflicts of interest are increasing in today’s business environment the most common conflict of interest scenarios facing accountants and advisers when...
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The future of accounting in an AI-driven world
INTHEBLACK
AI is reshaping finance faster than most accounting and finance organisations are prepared for. This episode explores what that means in practice and how professionals can stay relevant as roles evolve. From automation and agentic AI to cybersecurity risks and sustainability pressures, this expert-led discussion highlights the shifts happening across finance, accounting and business in a volatile and rapidly changing world. You will learn: The biggest forces changing the profession right now What AI fluency looks like in...
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From ledgers to the new AI world
INTHEBLACK
Accounting has evolved dramatically, but its core purpose stays unchanged - enabling trust and better decision-making. In this episode, hosted by Australian comedian Lehmo, learn how the profession has moved from manual record keeping to a strategic role centred on judgement, governance and value creation. Additionally, explore why AI is transforming tools rather than replacing expertise. Key learnings from this episode: How accounting has evolved from bookkeeping to strategic decision support ...
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Economic outlook for 2026: Australia and APAC
INTHEBLACK
Gain a clear view of where the Australian and Asia-Pacific economies are heading and what it all means for finance leaders in 2026. The headlines say volatility. The data tells a more nuanced story. Inflation, interest rates, productivity and more are all explained in plain terms, translating macroeconomic signals into what matters for business leaders today. Listen for an expert view of: The economic cycle that Australia and APAC are entering ...
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AQ for finance leaders
INTHEBLACK
What do you do when there is no playbook? Many finance leaders have built their careers on accuracy, clarity and control. But today’s operating climate is defined by uncertainty rather than stability. Market turbulence, rapid advances in AI, organisational redesign and ongoing talent constraints are converging at the same time. In this context, success depends on more than just IQ or EQ. It now also hinges on your adaptability quotient (AQ). In this episode, explore how finance professionals can build...
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Office romance: How to manage the risks
INTHEBLACK
Workplace romance happens more often than most people realise. While at its heart (no pun intended) it’s a personal matter, companies today have obligations under legislation that affect how these relationships are managed. When colleagues become romantically involved, there are ways to handle it that respect personal freedom while managing organisational risk. This episode examines that tricky balancing act of respecting privacy with the current legal and ethical responsibilities of...
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Cognitive bias in decision-making
INTHEBLACK
Cognitive bias. It quietly shapes many of the decisions made in accounting and finance – often without you realising it. This unintended bias can become a risk if left unchecked – especially in professions built on precision, trust and ethical responsibility. Drawing on real-world examples, this episode explores the diverse types of cognitive bias, and how they can impact accounting and finance professionals in our day-to-day work. Key learnings...
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With Interest: Payday Super explained ahead of 2026 rollout
INTHEBLACK
Did you know that one of Australia's biggest superannuation reforms in decades is starting in July 2026? Are you prepared for the change? In short, with legislation moving through Parliament, Australia will move from quarterly to payday-based superannuation payments – a significant shift with implications across business. This expert-led episode, featuring three guests, explores the systems issues and regulatory implications as well as why Payday...
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With Interest: Digital reporting - Why it’s time for Australia
INTHEBLACK
Australia remains one of the few advanced economies still using PDFs for financial reporting – a format most global markets have already left behind. In this episode, you’ll gain expert-led insights on why adopting digital financial reporting in Australia is critical to supporting trust, transparency and competitiveness in global markets. Explore how structured data allows regulators, investors and businesses to analyse and compare information more efficiently, driving better...
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With Interest: Attracting accountants - How to future-proof the profession
INTHEBLACK
How can we attract more accountants and future-proof the profession? In this episode we take a deep dive with IFAC into this pressing question. You’ll learn about accounting’s talent pipeline – its challenges and possible solutions. Key takeaways include: What’s really driving the talent shortage and how firms, educators and policymakers can respond. Simple ways to position accounting as a dynamic, valued career choice. Why reaching future accountants in primary...
info_outlineHow is the role of the CFO evolving and what does it mean for the future of finance?
In this episode, you’ll gain key takeaways from Hays’ CFO Insights Report, which surveyed nearly 300 CFOs across Australia and New Zealand.
You’ll learn how finance leaders are shifting from traditional financial management to a more strategic “chief value officer” role, driving broader organisational impact in an increasingly volatile business landscape.
Gain valuable insights into how CFOs are using AI for automation, prioritising cybersecurity amid growing threats, and embedding sustainability into financial strategy as ESG regulations come into sharper focus.
Additionally, with finance roles expanding, CFOs are investing in leadership development, digital skills and future-proofing their teams through structured succession planning.
Stay ahead in the finance world and discover:
- Emerging trends
- Challenges
- Actionable strategies
Tune in now.
Host: Christine Gounder, Digital Content Leader, CPA Australia
Guest: Caroline Edwards, NSW Director, Accountancy and Finance at Hays
You can read the full Hays’ CFO Insights Report online and Hays’ website has more about the services that the company offer.
CPA Australia also has resources for finance professionals which can help you in your career journey.
Additionally, at the INTHEBLACK website, you can read articles on wide range of topics for business, accounting and finance professionals, including the must-have skills for CFOs in 2025.
You can find a CPA at our custom portal on the CPA Australia website.
Would you like to listen to more INTHEBLACK episodes? Head to CPA Australia’s YouTube channel.
CPA Australia publishes four podcasts, providing commentary and thought leadership across business, finance, and accounting:
Search for them in your podcast platform.
Email the podcast team at podcasts@cpaaustralia.com.au