The University of Western Sydney is developing and piloting an innovative program to help practising accountants and managers wrestle energy costs and boost business efficiencies.

 

The project is being funded by a grant of almost $350,000 from the NSW Government's Office of Environment and Heritage as part of their Energy Efficiency Training Program.

 

Architect of the 'Energy Efficiency Matters' training project and Associate Head of the UWS School of Accounting, Dr Anne Abraham, said accountants and business managers need to know how to make their operations more energy efficient and sustainable regardless of a carbon tax or other measures that might be introduced.

 

"Reducing costs and improving efficiencies have always been principles of business, however the current business environment is incredibly complex and fast changing. Those in financial control of enterprises must understand the latest sustainability practices, the current regulatory environment and, importantly, know how to pass on their knowledge to others in their organisations."

 

Dr Abraham says graduates of the program have the potential to deliver real long-term cost savings for their employers.

 

The 'Energy Efficiency Matters: Training Accountants and Business Managers" program will be piloted from mid 2012 and include key modules on carbon pricing and investment decision making, accounting and reporting on energy efficiency, government policy, energy auditing and promoting an energy efficient workplace culture.

 

Flexible delivery options and eLearning modules will open the program to those currently in fulltime employment and those already enrolled in business or other tertiary courses.

 

Partners in the Energy Efficiency Matters program are: accountancy firm, Moore Stephens Sydney West; energy consultants Energetics Pty Ltd; the Institute of Public Accountants; the Western Sydney Business Connection; the NSW Business Chamber; and eLearning specialists, Cadre Design.