The University of Notre Dame Australia congratulates Bachelor of Commerce graduate Ella Skinstad on being awarded the Australian New Accountant for 2026 award, presented by Accountants Daily.
This significant achievement recognises a high-performing accountant at the beginning of their career who is pursuing a clear professional direction and making a meaningful contribution to the broader accounting profession.
Ella is a Graduate Accountant at PKF Australia and was an active student at Notre Dame, serving as President and Treasurer of the Sydney Business Society, and Secretary of the Sydney campus student association (SAUNDA) , for consecutive terms. Ella was also part of the Business School mentor program.
Ella said receiving such recognition so early in her career was surreal.
“I did not expect to be acknowledged; it was both surprising and affirming, but it validated the approach I take to my work. I am constantly striving to deliver high-quality outcomes, be proactive in my learning, and approach my colleagues and clients with respect and kindness,” she said.
Ella said the recognition of her work has given her greater motivation to continue developing her skills. Over time, she hopes to build her own client base founded on trust, strong relationships and a genuine understanding of each client’s needs.
As a recent Notre Dame graduate, Ella spoke about how her time at Notre Dame gave her a strong foundation in the technical skills she needed and helped her build important soft skills such as communication, teamwork and problem-solving.
“The practical focus of the course made it easier to transition into the workplace and feel confident in professional settings,” she said.
“Through the Business School mentor program, I was also able to connect with people in the industry, get a better sense of different career paths and receive helpful guidance along the way. That experience played a big part in leading me to my current role,” said Ella.
National Head of School, Law and Business, Professor David Carter said the School is particularly proud of Ella and this fantastic achievement.
“What it highlights is Notre Dame’s commitment to helping our students navigate the expectations of professional practice, with an excellent foundation in technical and theoretical knowledges,” he said.
Professor Carter said by focusing on core business skills including communication, negotiation and working through complex, ambiguous information to identify relevant challenges we prepare students for their professional future.
The advice Ella would give to current Notre Dame students would be to not be afraid to get involved.
“Joining clubs and societies was the best decision I made; it supported my personal growth and helped me form great friendships,” she said.
Notre Dame congratulates Ella on this achievement.
Media Contact: media@nd.edu.au