Four nominations lead to four finalists at Accountants Daily Rising Star Awards 2026

PKF Australia is proud to have all four of its nominations named as finalists in the Accountants Daily Rising Star Awards 2026.

This is a national program recognising emerging accounting professionals aged 35 and under who are shaping the future of the profession through innovation, technical excellence and leadership.

Often regarded as a benchmark for identifying the next generation of industry leaders, the Rising Star Awards celebrate accountants who are making a real impact early in their careers, across audit, business advisory, innovation and tax.

This year, PKF’s four finalists represent a diverse mix of skills, service lines and career stages:

• Sarah Illarietti – Innovator
• Kaitlynn Brady – Audit
• Alice Liang – Business Advisory
• Ella Skinstad – New Accountant

Each finalist was recognised for their commitment to professional growth, their contribution to clients and teams, and the role they play in evolving how accounting services are delivered across Australia.

The firms came together in Sydney on 24 April 2026 for the black tie awards ceremony, celebrating individual excellence and the collective strength of the next generation of the profession.

On the night, Ella Skinstad took home New Accountant of the Year, and Sarah Illarietti was recognised as Innovator of the Year.

Regardless of the final results, having all four nominations recognised as finalists is a moment 
worth celebrating, and a powerful reflection of the depth of talent being developed across our network.