Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) in 2025: Value for Australian Finance Pros

The Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification has long been a gold standard in IT auditing and risk management. As Australia’s financial sector sharpens its focus on cybersecurity and compliance, the CISA is emerging as a powerful lever for finance and audit professionals looking to future-proof their careers in 2025.

What is CISA and Why Is It in Demand in Australia?

The CISA, awarded by ISACA, certifies expertise in auditing, controlling, monitoring, and assessing information technology and business systems. While traditionally seen as an IT-focused credential, the CISA’s relevance now extends deep into the finance world. With the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and APRA doubling down on digital risk oversight, financial organisations are seeking staff who can bridge the gap between IT systems and regulatory compliance.

• Cybersecurity mandates: Following several high-profile data breaches, new APRA CPS 234 requirements in 2025 demand stronger internal controls and regular IT audits within finance institutions.

• Digital transformation: As banks and insurers digitise processes, the demand for professionals who understand both IT infrastructure and financial regulations is skyrocketing.

• Career versatility: CISA holders are not just auditors – they work in risk advisory, compliance, consulting, and even fintech startups.

What Does It Take to Earn the CISA?

The CISA isn’t just a test—it’s a career commitment. Candidates must pass a rigorous exam and demonstrate at least five years of professional experience in information systems auditing, control, or security. However, some education and experience waivers are available, making it more accessible for mid-career professionals and recent grads with strong IT or finance backgrounds.

Key steps to CISA certification in 2025:

• Exam: A 4-hour, 150-question multiple choice test covering five core domains, including governance, risk, and operations.

• Experience: Five years in relevant roles (with possible waivers for degrees or other certifications).

• Continuing education: Ongoing professional development is required to maintain certification—perfect for those who want to keep pace with fast-evolving standards.

In 2025, ISACA has updated exam domains to reflect new cyber threats, digital finance platforms, and international data privacy regulations. This means CISA content is more relevant than ever for Australian professionals.

Real-World Benefits: How CISA Accelerates Finance Careers

Holding a CISA can open doors across Australia’s banking, insurance, superannuation, and consulting sectors. Here’s how:

• Salary uplift: According to Hays’ 2025 Salary Guide, CISA-certified professionals in Australia command up to 20% higher salaries in audit and risk roles.

• Mobility: The CISA is globally recognised, making it easier to land roles with multinational banks, Big Four consulting firms, and even government agencies.

• Resilience: As automation and AI reshape financial operations, skills in IT risk and audit are becoming non-negotiable. CISA holders are less likely to be automated out of a job.

Example: When a major Australian superannuation fund suffered a phishing attack in early 2025, CISA-certified auditors led the internal investigation, helping the organisation not only recover quickly but also avoid regulatory penalties. Their ability to map IT incidents directly to compliance controls proved invaluable.

The 2025 Outlook: Is CISA Right for You?

If you’re already working in finance, risk, or audit—and want to deepen your digital expertise—the CISA is a smart investment. The 2025 hiring landscape heavily favours professionals who can navigate both regulatory complexity and technical detail. And with the ongoing evolution of APRA and ASIC requirements, demand for hybrid IT-finance skills is only set to grow.

For early-career professionals, the CISA can be a differentiator, but it’s especially valuable when combined with practical experience or other credentials such as CPA or CA.