Curtin University

What you'll study

This coursework master's builds advanced understanding of tax systems, tax law interpretation and applied tax practice. Core subjects typically cover:

• Australian taxation law: in-depth study of income tax principles, tax administration and dispute resolution.
• Corporate and international tax: taxation of corporate groups, mergers and acquisitions, transfer pricing and cross-border issues.
• Indirect taxes: goods and services tax (GST)/VAT and other consumption taxes, compliance and planning techniques.
• Tax policy and ethics: design of tax systems, revenue raising, fairness and ethical responsibilities of tax professionals.
• Tax research and professional practice: research methods, case studies, and a capstone project or advanced professional practice unit applying tax technical knowledge to real-world scenarios.

Electives allow specialisation in areas such as taxation of superannuation and retirement incomes, trusts and estates, forensic tax and small business tax issues. The programme is offered with flexible delivery options, enabling on-campus, blended or online study depending on student needs.

Entry requirements

Applicants are usually expected to hold an undergraduate degree in accounting, commerce, law or a closely related discipline, or a professional accounting qualification. Applicants without a cognate degree but with substantial relevant professional experience in taxation, accounting or finance may be considered, sometimes with conditions to complete prerequisite bridging units.

• Academic requirement: recognised bachelor degree or equivalent in a relevant field, or equivalent professional qualifications.
• Professional experience: relevant work experience in tax, accounting or law can strengthen an application and may be required for non-cognate applicants.
• English language: international applicants must meet Curtin's English language proficiency requirements (for example, recognised test scores or previous tertiary study in English).
• Advanced standing: applicants may be granted credit for prior postgraduate study or recognised professional qualifications in taxation or accounting.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master of Taxation pursue a range of senior roles across public and private sectors. Typical career outcomes include:

• Tax consultant or advisor in professional services firms
• Corporate tax manager or in-house tax specialist for multinational companies
• Indirect tax specialist focusing on GST/VAT and customs duties
• Transfer pricing analyst and international tax planner
• Tax officer or policy analyst in government revenue authorities
• Forensic accountant, tax litigator or dispute resolution specialist
• Academic or researcher in taxation and tax policy

The programme places emphasis on practical application and research skills, preparing graduates to meet professional accreditation requirements and to take on leadership responsibilities in tax practice, compliance and policy development.

Why study at Curtin University

Curtin’s business and law faculties have a strong reputation for industry engagement and applied research. The Master of Taxation benefits from academic staff with professional tax experience, connections with accounting and law firms, and opportunities for workplace-relevant projects. Flexible study modes support working professionals, and Curtin’s career services and professional networks assist students in transitioning to senior roles in tax practice, corporate finance and public policy.