A 54-year-old Barden Ridge local has credited TAFE NSW with helping her to build a new life in Australia, after relocating from New Zealand following the Christchurch Earthquakes.  

Originally from South Africa, Benita Steenkamp realised soon after arriving in Australia she needed a degree to get the role she wanted. She has since completed a Bachelor of Applied Commerce (Majoring in Accounting) at TAFE NSW Ultimo and gained a role as a Company Accountant at SAS International. 

“It felt like a light switched on when I started studying at TAFE NSW. Accounts have always been a passion of mine, and the course gave me an in-depth understanding of how businesses work, along with crucial accounting, marketing, and strategic thinking skills,” Ms Steenkamp said. 

“Not only did the course provide me with the hands-on accounting skills I needed to land a job, it opened my eyes to the many factors which make a business successful, and the importance of integrity in my role as an accountant.  

“Studying at TAFE NSW was the best decision of my life. The small class sizes and accessible teachers made the environment feel very inclusive and supportive. I never felt too old to be there, and I formed some lifelong friendships during my classes.”  

According to CPA, demand for accountants is unlikely to ease as businesses continue to grapple with uncertain economic conditions in the wake of COVID-19. 

General Manager of SAS Australia, Daniel Rushton said: “At SAS we support and encourage continued professional development and the TAFE NSW degree was a great fit for us. The team here at SAS are all very proud of Benita’s graduation.” 

Head Teacher of Accounting and Finance, Lekha Ganatra said the three-year Bachelor of Applied Commerce has been designed in consultation with industry to ensure students have the practical skills they need to hit the ground running.  

“With our employer connections and industry-aligned training, students are well-placed to gain a job in the financial services sector upon graduation,” Mrs Ganatra said.  

“Through the Bachelor of Applied Commerce, students can major in accounting, financial planning, or both – and take advantage of a variety of internships and work placements to enhance their employability and career prospects.” 

To find out more about studying a commerce degree at TAFE NSW, visit www.tafensw.edu.au or call 131 601.   

Media contact: Emma Woodward, Communications Specialist, 0409 618 291, emma.woodward15@tafensw.edu.au