How accountants can stay relevant in the age of AI

Artificial intelligence is changing the accounting profession, but does that mean experienced accountants should be concerned about their future?

While AI and automation are transforming how accounting firms operate, the need for skilled accounting professionals remains. What is changing is the type of work accountants do, how teams are structured and the capabilities firms increasingly value.

From my conversations with senior accountants across public practice, one thing is clear: technical expertise remains essential, but it’s no longer enough on its own to build a successful long-term career.

The accountants who continue to stand out are those who combine strong technical knowledge with commercial thinking, sound judgement, leadership and the ability to build trusted client relationships.

So, what does this mean for your career, and which skills should you be developing?

 

How AI and offshoring are changing accounting roles?

In our Lawson Delaney Accounting Firm Salary Guide 2026, we identified AI and offshoring as key trends reshaping workforce strategies.

Many firms are incorporating offshore resources and AI-enabled tools to improve efficiency, manage workloads and address talent shortages.

While these solutions aren’t replacing the need for experienced accountants, they’re changing how teams operate and where professionals can add the most value.

As routine tasks are increasingly supported by technology or offshore teams, experienced accountants have more opportunities to focus on complex work, client relationships and commercial advice.

In our view, firms that successfully balance technology, offshore support and local expertise are gaining a competitive advantage.

 

Five skills accountants need to stay relevant:

 

1. AI and technology literacy

You don’t need to become an AI expert, but understanding how technology can support your work is increasingly important.

AI-enabled tools can assist with data processing, reconciliations and reporting. The key is knowing how to use these tools effectively, recognise their limitations and verify their outputs.

My advice: Stay curious about the technology your firm is adopting and look for opportunities to use it to improve efficiency without compromising accuracy.

 

2. Technical expertise and professional judgement

As technology takes on more routine work, strong technical knowledge becomes even more valuable.

Experienced accountants need to interpret complex situations, identify errors and apply professional judgement, particularly when reviewing work completed by junior staff, offshore teams or AI-enabled systems.

My advice: Continue strengthening your technical expertise. Understanding the numbers and knowing when something doesn’t look right will remain essential.

 

3. Commercial thinking and advisory skills

Clients don’t just want accurate financial information. They want to understand what it means for their business.

Accountants who can interpret financial results, identify opportunities and provide meaningful advice are well positioned to take on greater responsibilities.

My advice: Look beyond the financial statements. Understand your clients’ businesses, ask questions and develop your ability to contribute to commercial conversations.

 

4. Communication and client relationships

Throughout my recruitment career, I’ve spoken with many successful Partners about what has contributed to their progression.

While technical capability is important, the ability to communicate, build relationships and earn clients’ trust consistently stands out.

These skills become increasingly valuable as accountants progress into management and Partner-level positions.

My advice: Seek opportunities to attend client meetings, present findings and build relationships. Don’t wait until you’re a manager to develop these skills.

 

5. Leadership and adaptability

As accounting firms evolve, senior professionals are increasingly responsible for managing workflows across local teams, offshore resources and technology-enabled systems.

The ability to delegate, review work, mentor others and adapt to new ways of working is becoming an important part of career progression.

My advice: Take opportunities to develop your leadership skills and stay open to learning. The accountants who continue to grow are those willing to evolve alongside the profession.

 

Will AI replace experienced accountants?

AI will continue to change how accounting work is performed, but automating individual tasks isn’t the same as replacing an entire role. Experienced accountants bring technical expertise, professional judgement, commercial understanding and relationship-building skills that remain important to firms and their clients. However, roles and expectations will continue to evolve.

Rather than asking whether AI will replace accountants, a more useful question is: How can you use AI to become a more effective and valuable accountant?

 

The future of accounting is about more than technology

AI and offshoring are reshaping the profession, but they’re also reinforcing the importance of the skills experienced accountants bring to the table.

From my experience recruiting within public practice, accountants who build successful long-term careers are those who continue developing their technical capabilities, commercial awareness and relationships.

Technology will keep evolving. The opportunity is to evolve with it.

 

Considering your next career move?

Lawson Delaney supports the careers of Business Services Advisory Accountants across Australia. Our team provides insights into vital skills that are sought after in the market. Propel your professional growth, and deliver unparalleled value to your firm and clients. The future is yours!

Explore our latest opportunities or get in touch with me Lee Eggleston at lee@lawsondelaney.com.au for a confidential career conversation.

 

 

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Frequently asked questions about the future of accounting and AI

 

Are accountants safe from AI?

No profession can be guaranteed to remain unchanged. AI may automate or reshape particular accounting tasks, but accountants who combine technical expertise, critical thinking, technology skills and client understanding are better placed to adapt as roles evolve.

 

What AI skills do accountants need?

Practical AI literacy matters more than knowing every new tool. Learn to use approved systems, give clear instructions, verify outputs, protect confidential information and understand when professional judgement is required.

 

What skills should accounting students learn to stay employable with AI?

Students should build strong accounting fundamentals alongside Excel and data skills, basic AI literacy, critical thinking, communication and professional ethics. These are useful starting points, but career development continues well beyond graduation as accountants gain responsibility for clients, complex work and commercial decisions.

 

How can experienced accountants future-proof their careers?

Focus on higher-value responsibilities: interpreting results, solving complex problems, advising clients, building relationships and leading teams. Continue developing technical knowledge while learning to use relevant technology responsibly.