Cadetships are job opportunities for typically 1st or 2nd year accounting students to be able to gain practical experience and experience what it's like to work in the accounting field. Depending on what you apply for, you'll be able to work in the tax, auditing, insolvency division, etc. Usually, you'll work 4-4.5 days (full time), and depending on your work place, study full or part time. Occasionally, I have seen a firm offer 2-3 working days instead. Usually if you're given the opportunity to study full time, it'll be 3 subjects + 4 working days. Otherwise, it'll be 4.5 working days + 2 subjects.
The main period for applying for cadesthips is around June-July (I think, can't really remember). However, towards the end of the year and during the beginning of the subsequent year, a few positions may open because: the firm realised they wanted more cadets, someone dropped out, etc.
Each firm varies in their structure for cadetships. During the cadetship, I think most firms allow students a few semesters to study full time and not work at all. So i guess, you can still experience what it's really like to be a uni student ^__^
In regards to applying, you'll need a resume/cv and a cover letter. If you're successful, you may need to go through a 1-3 interviews (group, video and one-on-ones).
Cadetships also typically:
- Subsidize for your textbooks
- Support you in your CA studies
- Internal training
If you're interested, look through this link:
https://www.charteredaccountantsanz.com/~/media/Files/Employment_Guide_2016.ashx to find which firms offer cadetships. Sometimes firms also puts ads on seek.com.au. But it's better to just go onto their website and look from there.