CPA, CA, FCPA: What Do All Those Letters Actually Mean?

If you’ve ever chatted with an accountant (or scrolled our team page), you’ve probably seen a string of letters after their name: CPA, CA, maybe even FCPA. But what do they actually mean? Here’s your quick guide.

CPA (Certified Practicing Accountant)

This is one of the main professional designations in Australia. Being a CPA means the accountant has gone through serious study, passed exams, and commits to ongoing training every year. It’s a signal that they know their stuff and stick to high ethical standards.

CA (Chartered Accountant)

This is the other major pathway, run by Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ). Like CPAs, Chartered Accountants complete a tough program and practical experience. Both CA and CPA are globally respected and should give you confidence that your accountant is highly qualified.

FCPA (Fellow Certified Practicing Accountant)

This one’s a little different — it’s not an entry-level designation, it’s an achievement. FCPA is awarded to CPAs who’ve made a significant contribution to the profession and shown leadership in their field. Think of it as the “Hall of Fame” for CPAs — a mark of going above and beyond.

So, which one is better?

The truth is, both CPAs and CAs are excellent qualifications. You’ll find brilliant accountants in both camps. FCPA, meanwhile, is a special recognition for CPAs who’ve done more than just the day-to-day. It’s about impact, leadership, and contribution. In case you missed it… Jason and Greg were both awarded FCPA status recently. We spoke to them about the achievement in this blog.