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ICAI Melbourne Chapter · Mentorship Program

Mentorship Program

The ICAI Melbourne Chapter Mentorship Program (formerly known as the Buddy Program) is a structured professional guidance initiative designed to connect ICAI members at various stages of their careers in Melbourne, Victoria.

Become a Mentee Become a Mentor
Duration 6 monthsOpen to paid Chapter membersFormerly the Buddy Program

Introduction

Guidance, connection & growth.

The Program provides a supportive platform for new migrants, emerging professionals, and members navigating career transitions to benefit from the experience and insights of seasoned professionals within the ICAI community.

It also offers mentors a meaningful opportunity to give back to the fraternity by sharing their knowledge, leadership experience, and professional wisdom.

This initiative fosters collaboration, networking, and mutual growth among members — building a stronger and more connected ICAI Melbourne Chapter community.

Purpose of the Mentorship Program

The purpose of the Mentorship Program is to foster career development and knowledge exchange among ICAI members in Melbourne, through meaningful mentor-mentee relationships. The Program seeks to:

  • Support members at different career stages — from new migrants to senior professionals.
  • Help mentees gain practical insights into the Australian job market, workplace culture and job readiness including
    • Resume and CV preparation
    • Interview skills and interacting with recruiters
    • Workplace etiquette
    • Using modern tools like Power BI, Power Query, and AI applications
    • Public speaking and presentation skills
  • Encourage professional development, leadership growth, and entrepreneurial thinking.
  • Create a trusted environment for sharing experiences, challenges, and career strategies.
  • Strengthen the ICAI Melbourne Chapter community through collaboration, learning, and mutual support.

Please note: This Program is intended to facilitate professional growth, guidance, and knowledge-sharing among ICAI members. It should not be construed as a job-seeking or recruitment platform, and any such use would be contrary to its purpose. Securing employment, if it occurs, is considered an incidental outcome of meaningful mentoring interactions.

Key objectives

Nine things the program sets out to do

The Mentorship Program is designed to achieve the following objectives:

  1. Support recently migrated members in understanding and integrating into the Australian professional landscape.
  2. Provide a structured mentoring platform for experienced professionals to share insights and guide fellow members.
  3. Assist members returning to the workforce after a career break in rebuilding professional confidence and direction.
  4. Guide members seeking a career shift, such as changing industries or transitioning from public practice to corporate roles.
  5. Foster leadership and technical skill development for members aspiring to progress into senior finance roles (e.g. Finance Manager, Financial Controller, CFO).
  6. Empower aspiring entrepreneurs and members looking to establish or grow business ventures, consultancies, or practices.
  7. Support members pursuing dual qualifications (e.g., CPA, CAANZ) through mentoring and peer learning.
  8. Provide practical job readiness guidance, including resume review, interview prep, interacting with recruiters, workplace integration, and leveraging modern tools (AI, Power BI, Power Query, etc.)
  9. Support skill development in public speaking, presentation, and communication to enhance professional effectiveness

Role definitions

Who’s involved

The key participants and their roles in ensuring the success of the Program.

Mentee

Seeks guidance

An ICAI member who seeks professional guidance, support, and learning through the Mentorship Program. Mentees are proactive learners committed to personal and professional growth, open to feedback, and eager to leverage the experience and insights of their mentors to navigate their career journey with confidence.

Become a Mentee
Mentor

Shares experience

An experienced ICAI member who is willing to share their professional knowledge, insights, and guidance. Mentors may come from public practice, corporate roles, academia, entrepreneurship, or leadership positions. A mentor acts as a trusted advisor, sounding board, and motivator.

Become a Mentor
Program Champion

Coordinates & supports

The primary coordinators and facilitators of the mentor–mentee relationship. The Champion(s):

  • Monitor progress and engagement,
  • Provide guidance and assistance where needed, and
  • Help maintain alignment with the overall purpose and values of the Program.
Program Committee

Oversees & matches

Provides strategic oversight of the Program and the Champion(s), and:

  • Receives and reviews Expressions of Interest (Annexure E and F)
  • Oversees the matching process to ensure alignment of goals, interests, and professional background
  • Provides guidance to maintain the quality, integrity, and effectiveness of the Program
  • Serves as an advisory body to mentors, mentees, and Champions throughout the program cycle

The Mentorship Program is designed to facilitate, not direct or restrict, the interaction between mentors and mentees. Its purpose is to create an enjoyable, collaborative, and enriching experience for both participants — encouraging open communication, mutual respect, and active engagement. The success of the Program relies on the commitment and participation of both mentors and mentees in achieving its shared objectives.

Program structure

How it works

A six-month mentoring arrangement, from expression of interest to feedback.

  1. Express your interest

    Mentors complete the Mentor Questionnaire (Annexure E); mentees complete the Mentee Questionnaire (Annexure F) and email it in.

    Annexure E / F

  2. Matching

    The Mentorship Program Committee reviews Expressions of Interest and pairs compatible mentors and mentees based on shared interests and professional objectives.

    Committee

  3. Sign the Arrangement

    At your first meeting, mentor and mentee complete the Mentorship Program Arrangement and email it to the program.

    Annexure A

  4. Six months of mentoring

    Meet at your agreed interval, supported by the Mentorship Program Champion. A suggested 5-stage structure is available.

    Annexure B

  5. Feedback & close

    Both participants complete the Program Feedback Form. You can extend beyond six months with the Committee’s support.

    Annexure D

5.1 Eligibility criteria

Who can take part

The following eligibility criteria should be met by both the Mentor and Mentee:

  1. Both mentors and mentees must be paid members of the Melbourne Chapter of ICAI.
  2. Mentors should ideally have at least three years of experience in accounting or finance, either in industry or public practice in Australia, and possess the willingness and commitment to guide mentees.
  3. Mentees are typically newly migrated members with less than two years of local experience. However, this does not exclude other members facing career challenges or seeking guidance from participating in the program.

For the program to be effective, it is essential that mentors have a genuine desire to contribute to the professional fraternity and can commit to regular interactions and meetings for the duration of the program.

5.3 Role of the Mentorship Program Champion(s)

The Mentorship Program Champion(s) are typically drawn from the Managing Committee of the Melbourne Chapter of ICAI and appointed by the Mentorship Program Committee. They act as the primary facilitators of the program, providing guidance and support to ensure that both mentors and mentees benefit fully from the mentorship experience.

The Champions will regularly report progress to the Mentorship Program Committee, which in turn updates the Managing Committee. Periodic updates on the program will also be shared with members to increase awareness and encourage participation, particularly among new migrant members.

The primary responsibilities of the Mentorship Program Champion(s) include:

  • Supporting the delivery of the program and ensuring alignment with its objectives.
  • Engaging with mentors and mentees at mutually agreed intervals to check progress, provide guidance, and address any concerns.
  • Facilitating a positive and productive mentorship experience for all participants.

Mentorship Program Champions generally remain in their role for the duration of the mentoring program, even if the composition of the Managing Committee changes, unless (1) the Managing Committee decides to appoint a new Champion(s); or (2) the Champion expresses their inability to continue in the role.

Benefits of the Mentorship Program

Both sides grow

The Mentorship Program provides a structured platform for professional growth, knowledge sharing, and collaboration within the ICAI Melbourne Chapter. It enables Mentors and Mentees to strengthen their networks, gain practical insights, and develop skills that support career progression and professional excellence.

For

Mentors

  • Enhance management, leadership, communication, and public speaking skills
  • Expand professional networks and connections within ICAI and the broader business community
  • Gain recognition for skills, experience, and commitment to the profession
  • Contribute to shaping the future of the accounting profession
  • Reflect on professional practices, current projects, and modern workplace tools
  • Share knowledge and support others’ growth, including mentoring on AI, Power BI, and other modern tools
  • Stay informed about current market and industry practices, technology trends, and career development strategies

For

Mentees

  • Develop communication, presentation, and professional skills
  • Build a professional network, establish a support system, and engage with recruiters
  • Boost confidence and self-esteem through guided learning
  • Engage in discussions on practical and theoretical aspects of accounting in Victoria, Australia
  • Benefit from a confidential platform to discuss workplace challenges, career goals, and skill gaps
  • Receive guidance and direction to achieve career aspirations, develop technical skills, and leverage modern workplace tools
  • Gain insight into the Australian corporate and business environment, emerging technologies, and modern work practices

Overall, the Mentorship Program cultivates a culture of collaboration where both Mentors and Mentees learn, grow, and succeed together.

Annexure B · Program structure sample

A suggested five-stage path

The following structure is suggested for Mentors and Mentees to follow throughout the Program. Participants may choose to follow this structure fully, partially, or create their own mentoring approach that suits their goals.

  1. Stage 1

    Negotiating expectations and goals

    1. Complete the Mentorship Program Arrangement (Annexure A).
    2. Undertake the “Before the First Meeting” activity to prepare discussion points, questions, and career objectives.
  2. Stage 2

    Establishing the relationship

    1. Introduce and get to know each other personally and professionally.
    2. Discuss career and work history.
    3. Identify development needs and areas of focus for the mentorship.
    4. Mentor may present relevant work examples, case studies, or experiences.
  3. Stage 3

    Development needs / knowledge acquisition

    1. Identify opportunities to learn together, e.g., attending professional development events, webinars, or workshops.
    2. Share and discuss a common planning topic, technical skill, or area of professional interest.
  4. Stage 4

    Career development

    1. Review career direction and goals; discuss progress and adjustments if necessary.
    2. Share and review CVs; Mentor may provide feedback on career presentation, applications, and interview preparation.
  5. Stage 5

    Sustaining the relationship

    1. Maintain ongoing communication beyond the formal program.
    2. Continue to provide guidance, support, and encouragement as needed.

Annexure A · Mentorship Program Arrangement

What you commit to

To be completed by the Mentor and Mentee in their first meeting and emailed to me***************@**ai.melbourne. Mentor and mentee voluntarily commit to participate in the Mentorship Program for a period of six months.

Annexure A — Mentorship Program ArrangementSigned at your first meeting · PDF

We agree to:

  1. Meet at least at an agreed interval;
  2. Attend any program sessions or activities organized by the Melbourne Chapter of ICAI;
  3. Demonstrate genuine interest and commitment to the Mentorship Program;
  4. Be objective, honest, and supportive in all interactions;
  5. Act ethically and respectfully toward all participants;
  6. Maintain strict confidentiality of discussions and information shared;
  7. Contribute actively to discussions and resolution of issues raised during meetings; and
  8. Complete the Mentorship Program Feedback Form at the conclusion of this arrangement.

We acknowledge that either party may discontinue the mentorship for any reason and will follow the Mentorship Program’s closure guidelines as outlined in the Mentorship Program Guidebook. The Arrangement Number is filled in by the Mentorship Program Champion and communicated to the Mentor and Mentee.

Program guidelines

Good to know

How are mentors and mentees matched?

The matching of mentors and mentees will be coordinated by the Mentorship Program Committee. At the start of the program, both mentors and mentees will complete a brief online questionnaire capturing their career goals, interests, and areas where guidance is sought. While it is recognized that career paths may include sector changes, career breaks, and diverse experiences, the Mentorship Program Committee will make every effort to pair compatible mentors and mentees based on shared interests and professional objectives to maximize the value of the program.

Existing informal mentor–mentee relationships, particularly between experienced members and new migrants, are encouraged to be formalized through this program to ensure structure and mutual benefit.

What if the pairing isn’t working?

If at any point either a mentor or mentee feels that the pairing is not optimal, they may contact their Mentorship Program Champion for guidance or to explore a rematch.

How long does the program run?

The standard duration of the mentoring arrangement is six months. Should both participants wish to extend the mentorship beyond this period, the Mentorship Program Champion will facilitate discussions with the Mentorship Program Committee to support the continuation.

Withdrawing from the program (no-fault closure)

It is acknowledged that not all mentor–mentee relationships may work out due to differences in interests, schedules, or personalities. There may be situations where any of the parties (Mentor, Mentee, or Mentorship Program Champion(s)) wish to withdraw from the Program or require early closure of the Mentorship Program Arrangement. The reasons for withdrawal may vary, and such closures can be conducted as a “no-fault” closure.

A no-fault closure is a respectful, blame-free way to end a mentorship relationship when it is not working effectively, without suggesting that either the mentor or mentee is at fault. A no-fault closure can be initiated by either party. Its primary purpose is to ensure a positive outcome for both participants, without attributing blame to either party. The Mentorship Program Champion(s) may be requested to facilitate this process and support a smooth transition.

Closure should be conducted with professionalism, integrity, and respect. It is recommended to hold a final meeting to:

  • Discuss the reasons for closure,
  • Reflect on the highlights and positive outcomes of the relationship, and
  • Provide constructive feedback to help both parties learn and grow from the experience.

These matters are documented in Annexure D, to be completed by the Mentor, Mentee, and Mentorship Program Champion(s). In all cases, no fault is attributed to either party, and participants are encouraged to engage in future iterations of the Mentorship Program.

Program evaluation and feedback

It is important to formally acknowledge the conclusion of the Mentorship Program Arrangement, even if the Mentor and Mentee agree to continue their mentorship beyond the program period.

At the end of the program, both Mentor and Mentee are requested to complete a Program Feedback Form (Annexure D). This feedback helps assess whether the intended benefits were achieved. The form also provides a structured way to:

  • Recognize the value of the Program,
  • Appreciate the time and contributions of Mentors,
  • Capture lessons learned by both Mentors and Mentees, and
  • Reflect on each other’s professional and personal development.

This evaluation ensures continuous improvement of the Mentorship Program and reinforces a culture of learning, collaboration, and professional growth.

Confidentiality and code of conduct

All participants must uphold the highest standards of professionalism, confidentiality, and integrity throughout the program. Any information shared during mentoring sessions—whether personal, professional, or sensitive—must remain strictly confidential and not be disclosed to any third party without explicit consent.

Participants are expected to:

  • Follow the objectives, guidelines, and spirit of the Mentorship Program
  • Engage respectfully, without judgement or bias
  • Avoid pursuing personal agendas or leveraging the relationship for unrelated purposes
  • Stay within the defined scope and boundaries outlined in this guidebook
  • Maintain professionalism in communication and behaviour at all times

Any breach of confidentiality or inappropriate conduct may result in removal from the program.

Disclaimer

This Mentorship Program is an initiative of the ICAI – Melbourne (Australia) Chapter Inc. and is not affiliated with or endorsed by ICAI India. The program does not guarantee any specific outcomes or results. Its primary purpose is to support new migrants, emerging professionals, and members navigating career transitions in understanding the local business environment and advancing their professional journey in Victoria, Australia.

Participation in the program is voluntary, and both mentors and mentees are expected to contribute equally to the mentoring relationship. Neither the program, its organisers, mentors, mentees, nor the ICAI Melbourne Chapter shall be held liable for any decisions, consequences, or outcomes arising from participation in this program.

Downloads

Guidebook & forms

Download, complete and email your forms to the Mentorship Program.

Mentorship Program GuidebookFull program guide · PDF
Annexure F — Mentee QuestionnaireExpression of interest for mentees · PDF
Annexure E — Mentor QuestionnaireExpression of interest for mentors · PDF
Annexure A — Mentorship Program ArrangementSigned at your first meeting · PDF
Annexure B — Program Structure SampleSuggested 5-stage structure · PDF
Annexure C — Mentor & Mentee Role StatementResponsibilities and attributes · PDF
Annexure D — Feedback / Closure FormAt the end of the program or on withdrawal · PDF

Completed forms are emailed to me***************@**ai.melbourne.

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