Accenture (ACN) 10-Q17 Dec 202021 Q1 Quarterly reportFinancial data

Company Profile

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - shares	3 Months Ended
Document and Entity Information - shares	Nov. 30, 2020	Dec. 07, 2020
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code	L2
Document Transition Report	false
Document Quarterly Report	true
Document Type	10-Q
Entity File Number	001-34448
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Nov. 30, 2020
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2021
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Title of 12(b) Security	Class A ordinary shares, par value $0.0000225 per share
Trading Symbol	ACN
Security Exchange Name	NYSE
Entity Registrant Name	Accenture plc
Entity Central Index Key	0001467373
Entity Address, Address Line One	1 Grand Canal Square
Entity Address, Address Line Two	Grand Canal Harbour
Entity Address, City or Town	Dublin
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code	2
Entity Address, Country	IE
Country Region	353
City Area Code	1
Local Phone Number	646-2000
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--08-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Small Business	false
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Interactive Data Current	Yes
Entity Shell Company	false
Entity Tax Identification Number	98-0627530
Class A ordinary shares
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		661,135,130
Class X Ordinary Shares
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		526,879

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Nov. 30, 2020	Aug. 31, 2020
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 8,594,003	$ 8,415,330
Short-term investments	83,148	94,309
Receivables and contract assets	8,547,711	7,846,892
Other current assets	1,401,232	1,393,225
Total current assets	18,626,094	17,749,756
NON-CURRENT ASSETS:
Contract assets	44,517	43,257
Investments	298,906	324,514
Property and equipment, net	1,506,825	1,545,568
Lease assets	3,100,120	3,183,346
Goodwill	8,127,411	7,709,820
Deferred contract costs	715,897	723,168
Deferred tax assets	4,178,723	4,153,146
Other non-current assets	1,669,818	1,646,018
Total non-current assets	19,642,217	19,328,837
TOTAL ASSETS	38,268,311	37,078,593
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Current portion of long-term debt and bank borrowings	8,925	7,820
Accounts payable	1,513,442	1,349,874
Deferred revenues	3,524,781	3,636,741
Accrued payroll and related benefits	5,179,301	5,083,950
Income taxes payable	445,824	453,542
Lease liabilities	732,878	756,057
Accrued consumption taxes	706,876	662,409
Other accrued liabilities	707,072	712,197
Total current liabilities	12,819,099	12,662,590
NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Long-term debt	59,881	54,052
Deferred revenues	668,267	690,931
Retirement obligation	1,875,976	1,859,444
Deferred tax liabilities	201,376	179,703
Income taxes payable	995,478	930,695
Lease liabilities	2,627,185	2,667,584
Other non-current liabilities	594,833	534,421
Total non-current liabilities	7,022,996	6,916,830
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY:
Restricted share units	1,721,681	1,585,302
Additional paid-in capital	7,551,089	7,167,227
Treasury Stock, Value	(3,163,841)	(2,565,761)
Retained earnings	13,276,702	12,375,533
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(1,479,202)	(1,561,837)
Total Accenture plc shareholders’ equity	17,906,501	17,000,536
Noncontrolling interests	519,715	498,637
Total shareholders’ equity	18,426,216	17,499,173
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY	38,268,311	37,078,593
Ordinary Shares
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY:
Ordinary shares, value	57	57
Class A ordinary shares
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY:
Ordinary shares, value	15	15
Class X Ordinary Shares
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY:
Ordinary shares, value	$ 0	$ 0

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical)	Nov. 30, 2020€ / sharesshares	Nov. 30, 2020$ / sharesshares	Aug. 31, 2020€ / sharesshares	Aug. 31, 2020$ / sharesshares
Ordinary Shares
Ordinary shares, par value \| € / shares	€ 1		€ 1
Ordinary shares, shares authorized	40,000	40,000	40,000	40,000
Ordinary shares, shares issued	40,000	40,000	40,000	40,000
Treasury shares, ordinary shares	40,000	40,000	40,000	40,000
Class A ordinary shares
Ordinary shares, par value \| $ / shares		$ 0.0000225		$ 0.0000225
Ordinary shares, shares authorized	20,000,000,000	20,000,000,000	20,000,000,000	20,000,000,000
Ordinary shares, shares issued	660,518,888	660,518,888	658,548,895	658,548,895
Treasury shares, ordinary shares	26,898,686	26,898,686	24,383,369	24,383,369
Class X Ordinary Shares
Ordinary shares, par value \| $ / shares		$ 0.0000225		$ 0.0000225
Ordinary shares, shares authorized	1,000,000,000	1,000,000,000	1,000,000,000	1,000,000,000
Ordinary shares, shares issued	526,879	526,879	527,509	527,509
Ordinary shares, shares outstanding	526,879	526,879	527,509	527,509

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Nov. 30, 2020	Nov. 30, 2019
REVENUES:
Revenues	$ 11,762,185	$ 11,358,958
OPERATING EXPENSES:
Cost of services	7,863,889	7,711,199
Sales and marketing	1,227,176	1,191,123
General and administrative costs	780,451	689,373
Total operating expenses	9,871,516	9,591,695
OPERATING INCOME	1,890,669	1,767,263
Interest income	10,685	27,419
Interest expense	(8,854)	(5,474)
Other income (expense), net	94,367	11,439
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES	1,986,867	1,800,647
Income tax expense	464,810	425,479
NET INCOME	1,522,057	1,375,168
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest in Accenture Canada Holdings Inc.	(1,700)	(1,741)
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests – other	(20,081)	(16,459)
NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO ACCENTURE PLC	$ 1,500,276	$ 1,356,968
Weighted average Class A ordinary shares:
Basic	634,271,482	635,722,309
Diluted	646,879,735	649,389,444
Earnings per Class A ordinary share:
Basic	$ 2.37	$ 2.13
Diluted	2.32	2.09
Cash dividends per share	$ 0.88	$ 0.80

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMP

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2020	Nov. 30, 2019
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
NET INCOME	$ 1,522,057	$ 1,375,168
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS), NET OF TAX:
Foreign currency translation	67,312	37,730
Defined benefit plans	10,881	8,752
Cash flow hedges	4,393	14,127
Investments	49	0
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO ACCENTURE PLC	82,635	60,609
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	1,461	1,180
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME	1,606,153	1,436,957
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO ACCENTURE PLC	1,582,911	1,417,577
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	23,242	19,380
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME	$ 1,606,153	$ 1,436,957

CONSOLIDATED SHAREHOLDERS' EQUI

CONSOLIDATED SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY STATEMENT - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Total	Ordinary Shares	Class A ordinary shares	Class X Ordinary Shares	Common StockOrdinary Shares	Common StockClass A ordinary shares	Common StockClass X Ordinary Shares	Common StockRestricted Share Units	Additional Paid-in Capital	Treasury Shares	Retained Earnings	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	Total Accenture plc Shareholders' Equity	Noncontrolling Interests
Beginning Balance at Aug. 31, 2019	$ 14,827,691				$ 57	$ 15	$ 0	$ 1,411,903	$ 5,804,448	$ (1,388,376)	$ 10,421,538	$ (1,840,577)	$ 14,409,008	$ 418,683
Beginning Balance (in shares) at Aug. 31, 2019					40,000	654,739,000	609,000			(19,005,000)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	1,375,168										1,356,968		1,356,968	18,200
Other comprehensive income (loss)	61,789											60,609	60,609	1,180
Purchases of Class A ordinary shares	(724,618)								811	$ (724,618)			(723,807)	(811)
Purchases of Class A ordinary shares (in shares)										(3,821,000)
Share-based compensation expense	274,929							238,677	36,252				274,929
Purchases/redemptions of Accenture Canada Holdings Inc. exchangeable shares and Class X shares (in shares)							15,000
Purchases/redemptions of Accenture Canada Holdings Inc. exchangeable shares and Class X shares (in shares)	(4,593)								(4,593)				(4,593)
Employee share programs	300,400							(142,925)	323,660	$ 135,603	(16,263)		300,075	325
Employee share programs (in shares)						2,207,000				836,000
Dividends	(508,381)							18,243			(525,968)		(507,725)	656
Other, net	(1,177)								1,674				1,674	(2,851)
Ending Balance (in shares) at Nov. 30, 2019					40,000	656,946,000	594,000			(21,990,000)
Ending Balance at Nov. 30, 2019	15,601,208				$ 57	$ 15	$ 0	1,525,898	6,162,252	$ (1,977,391)	11,236,275	(1,779,968)	15,167,138	434,070
Beginning Balance at Aug. 31, 2020	17,499,173				$ 57	$ 15	$ 0	1,585,302	7,167,227	$ (2,565,761)	12,375,533	(1,561,837)	17,000,536	498,637
Beginning Balance (in shares) at Aug. 31, 2020		40,000	658,548,895	527,509	40,000	658,549,000	528,000			(24,423,000)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	1,522,057										1,500,276		1,500,276	21,781
Other comprehensive income (loss)	84,096											82,635	82,635	1,461
Purchases of Class A ordinary shares	(768,395)								765	$ (768,395)			(767,630)	(765)
Purchases of Class A ordinary shares (in shares)										(3,341,000)
Share-based compensation expense	311,321							270,226	41,095				311,321
Purchases/redemptions of Accenture Canada Holdings Inc. exchangeable shares and Class X shares (in shares)							(1,000)
Purchases/redemptions of Accenture Canada Holdings Inc. exchangeable shares and Class X shares (in shares)	(500)								(500)				(500)
Employee share programs	338,891							(153,073)	343,783	$ 170,315	(22,462)		338,563	328
Employee share programs (in shares)						1,970,000				825,000
Dividends	(558,052)							19,226			(576,645)		(557,419)	(633)
Other, net	(2,375)								(1,281)				(1,281)	(1,094)
Ending Balance (in shares) at Nov. 30, 2020		40,000	660,518,888	526,879	40,000	660,519,000	527,000			(26,939,000)
Ending Balance at Nov. 30, 2020	$ 18,426,216				$ 57	$ 15	$ 0	$ 1,721,681	$ 7,551,089	$ (3,163,841)	$ 13,276,702	$ (1,479,202)	$ 17,906,501	$ 519,715

CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOWS STATEME

CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOWS STATEMENTS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOWS STATEMENTS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Nov. 30, 2020	Nov. 30, 2019
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income	$ 1,522,057	$ 1,375,168
Adjustments to reconcile Net income to Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities —
Depreciation, amortization and other	468,200	399,458
Share-based compensation expense	311,321	274,929
Deferred tax expense (benefit)	(19,096)	36,591
Other, net	(103,806)	(120,927)
Change in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions —
Receivables and contract assets, current and non-current	(594,475)	(436,872)
Other current and non-current assets	(18,129)	(101,096)
Accounts payable	148,495	(61,929)
Deferred revenues, current and non-current	(151,356)	(185,313)
Accrued payroll and related benefits	48,385	(261,592)
Income taxes payable, current and non-current	34,755	84,840
Other current and non-current liabilities	(43,506)	(216,346)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	1,602,845	786,911
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchases of property and equipment	(93,115)	(95,063)
Purchases of businesses and investments, net of cash acquired	(503,843)	(109,848)
Proceeds from sales of businesses and investments	149,002	39,200
Other investing, net	1,549	(182)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	(446,407)	(165,893)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from issuance of shares	338,891	300,400
Purchases of shares	(768,895)	(729,211)
Proceeds from (repayments of) long-term debt, net	(82)	(570)
Cash dividends paid	(558,052)	(508,381)
Other, net	(11,313)	(10,462)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	(999,451)	(948,224)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	21,686	10,890
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS	178,673	(316,316)
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, beginning of period	8,415,330	6,126,853
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, end of period	8,594,003	5,810,537
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Income taxes paid, net	$ 344,628	$ 292,787

BASIS OF PRESENTATION

BASIS OF PRESENTATION	3 Months Ended
BASIS OF PRESENTATION	Nov. 30, 2020
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
BASIS OF PRESENTATION	1. Basis Of Presentation The accompanying unaudited interim Consolidated Financial Statements of Accenture plc and its controlled subsidiary companies have been prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) for quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and do not include all of the information and note disclosures required by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) for complete financial statements. We use the terms “Accenture,” “we” and “our” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements to refer to Accenture plc and its subsidiaries. These Consolidated Financial Statements should therefore be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2020 included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on October 22, 2020. The accompanying unaudited interim Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP, which requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect amounts reported in the Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying disclosures. Although these estimates are based on management’s best knowledge of current events and actions that we may undertake in the future, actual results may differ from those estimates. The Consolidated Financial Statements reflect all adjustments of a normal, recurring nature that are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair presentation of results for these interim periods. The results of operations for the three months ended November 30, 2020 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the fiscal year ending August 31, 2021. Allowance for Credit Losses - Client Receivables and Contract Assets We record client receivables and contract assets at their face amounts less an allowance for credit losses. The allowance represents our estimate of expected credit losses based on historical experience, current economic conditions and certain forward-looking information. As of November 30, 2020 and August 31, 2020, the total allowance for credit losses recorded for client receivables and contract assets was $38,315 and $40,277, respectively. The change in the allowance is primarily due to immaterial write-offs and changes in gross client receivables and contract assets. Concentrations of Credit Risk Our financial instruments, consisting primarily of cash and cash equivalents, foreign currency exchange rate instruments and client receivables, are exposed to concentrations of credit risk. We place our cash and cash equivalents and foreign exchange instruments with highly-rated financial institutions, limit the amount of credit exposure with any one financial institution and conduct ongoing evaluations of the credit worthiness of the financial institutions with which we do business. Client receivables are dispersed across many different industries and countries; therefore, concentrations of credit risk are limited. Investments All available-for-sale securities and liquid investments with an original maturity greater than three months but less than one year are considered to be Short-term investments. Non-current investments consist of equity securities in publicly-traded and privately-held companies and are accounted for using either the equity or fair value measurement alternative method of accounting (for investments without readily determinable fair values). Our non-current investments are as follows: November 30, 2020 August 31, 2020 Equity method investments $ 211,765 $ 240,446 Investments without readily determinable fair values 87,141 84,068 Total non-current investments $ 298,906 $ 324,514 For investments in which we can exercise significant influence but do not control, we use the equity method of accounting. Equity method investments are initially recorded at cost and our proportionate share of gains and losses of the investee are included as a component of other income (expense), net. Our equity method investments consist primarily of an investment in Duck Creek Technologies. As of November 30, 2020 and August 31, 2020, the carrying amount of our investment was $201,810 and $230,219, and the estimated fair value of our approximately 19% and 22% ownership was $850,825 and $956,308, respectively. We account for the investment under the equity method because we have the ability to influence operations through the combination of our voting power and through other factors, such as representation on the board and our business relationship. Depreciation and Amortization As of November 30, 2020 and August 31, 2020, total accumulated depreciation was $2,414,951 and $2,313,731, respectively. See table below for summary of depreciation on fixed assets, deferred transition amortization, intangible assets amortization and operating lease cost for the three months ended November 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Three Months Ended November 30, 2020 November 30, 2019 Depreciation $ 133,918 $ 97,090 Amortization - Deferred transition 81,356 67,914 Amortization - Intangible assets 67,207 53,372 Other - Operating lease cost 185,719 181,082 Total depreciation, amortization and other $ 468,200 $ 399,458 Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2016-13 (“Topic 326”)

REVENUES

REVENUES	3 Months Ended
REVENUES	Nov. 30, 2020
Revenues [Abstract]
Revenues	2. Revenues Disaggregation of Revenue See Note 11 (Segment Reporting) to these Consolidated Financial Statements for our disaggregated revenues. Remaining Performance Obligations We had remaining performance obligations of approximately $19 billion and $20 billion as of November 30, 2020 and August 31, 2020, respectively. Our remaining performance obligations represent the amount of transaction price for which work has not been performed and revenue has not been recognized. The majority of our contracts are terminable by the client on short notice with little or no termination penalties, and some without notice. Under Topic 606, only the non-cancelable portion of these contracts is included in our performance obligations. Additionally, our performance obligations only include variable consideration if we assess it is probable that a significant reversal of cumulative revenue recognized will not occur when the uncertainty is resolved. Based on the terms of our contracts, a significant portion of what we consider contract bookings is not included in our remaining performance obligations. We expect to recognize approximately 62% of our remaining performance obligations as of November 30, 2020 as revenue in fiscal 2021, an additional 19% in fiscal 2022, and the balance thereafter. Contract Estimates Adjustments in contract estimates related to performance obligations satisfied or partially satisfied in prior periods were immaterial for the three months ended November 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Contract Balances Deferred transition revenues were $668,267 and $690,931 as of November 30, 2020 and August 31, 2020, respectively, and are included in Non-current deferred revenues. Costs related to these activities are also deferred and are expensed as the services are provided. Deferred transition costs were $715,897 and $723,168 as of November 30, 2020 and August 31, 2020, respectively, and are included in Deferred contract costs. Generally, deferred amounts are protected in the event of early termination of the contract and are monitored regularly for impairment. Impairment losses are recorded when projected remaining undiscounted operating cash flows of the related contract are not sufficient to recover the carrying amount of contract assets. The following table provides information about the balances of our Receivables and Contract assets, net of allowance, and Contract liabilities (Deferred revenues): As of November 30, 2020 As of August 31, 2020 Receivables $ 7,799,770 $ 7,192,110 Contract assets (current) 747,941 654,782 Receivables and contract assets, net of allowance (current) 8,547,711 7,846,892 Contract assets (non-current) 44,517 43,257 Deferred revenues (current) 3,524,781 3,636,741 Deferred revenues (non-current) 668,267 690,931 Changes in the contract asset and liability balances during the three months ended November 30, 2020, were a result of normal business activity and not materially impacted by any other factors.

EARNINGS PER SHARE

EARNINGS PER SHARE	3 Months Ended
EARNINGS PER SHARE	Nov. 30, 2020
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
EARNINGS PER SHARE	3. Earnings Per Share Basic and diluted earnings per share are calculated as follows: Three Months Ended November 30, 2020 November 30, 2019 Basic earnings per share Net income attributable to Accenture plc $ 1,500,276 $ 1,356,968 Basic weighted average Class A ordinary shares 634,271,482 635,722,309 Basic earnings per share $ 2.37 $ 2.13 Diluted earnings per share Net income attributable to Accenture plc $ 1,500,276 $ 1,356,968 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest in Accenture Canada Holdings Inc. (1) 1,700 1,741 Net income for diluted earnings per share calculation $ 1,501,976 $ 1,358,709 Basic weighted average Class A ordinary shares 634,271,482 635,722,309 Class A ordinary shares issuable upon redemption/exchange of noncontrolling interest (1) 718,767 815,515 Diluted effect of employee compensation related to Class A ordinary shares 11,633,343 12,626,225 Diluted effect of share purchase plans related to Class A ordinary shares 256,143 225,395 Diluted weighted average Class A ordinary shares 646,879,735 649,389,444 Diluted earnings per share $ 2.32 $ 2.09

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS	3 Months Ended
ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS	Nov. 30, 2020
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	4. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss The following table summarizes the changes in the accumulated balances for each component of accumulated other comprehensive loss attributable to Accenture plc: Three Months Ended November 30, 2020 November 30, 2019 Foreign currency translation Beginning balance $ (1,010,279) $ (1,207,975) Foreign currency translation 67,443 40,145 Income tax benefit (expense) 1,313 (1,264) Portion attributable to noncontrolling interests (1,444) (1,151) Foreign currency translation, net of tax 67,312 37,730 Ending balance (942,967) (1,170,245) Defined benefit plans Beginning balance (615,223) (672,323) Reclassifications into net periodic pension and 13,595 12,784 Income tax benefit (expense) (2,702) (4,021) Portion attributable to noncontrolling interests (12) (11) Defined benefit plans, net of tax 10,881 8,752 Ending balance (604,342) (663,571) Cash flow hedges Beginning balance 63,714 38,993 Unrealized gain (loss) 25,364 38,408 Reclassification adjustments into Cost of services (20,895) (20,019) Income tax benefit (expense) (71) (4,244) Portion attributable to noncontrolling interests (5) (18) Cash flow hedges, net of tax 4,393 14,127 Ending balance (2) 68,107 53,120 Investments Beginning balance (49) 728 Unrealized gain (loss) 49 — Income tax benefit (expense) — — Portion attributable to noncontrolling interests — — Investments, net of tax 49 — Ending balance — 728 Accumulated other comprehensive loss $ (1,479,202) $ (1,779,968) (1) Reclassifications into net periodic pension and post-retirement expense are recognized in Cost of services, Sales and marketing, General and administrative costs and non-operating expenses.

BUSINESS COMBINATIONS

BUSINESS COMBINATIONS	3 Months Ended
BUSINESS COMBINATIONS	Nov. 30, 2020
Business Combinations [Abstract]
BUSINESS COMBINATIONS	5. Business CombinationsDuring the three months ended November 30, 2020, we completed individually immaterial acquisitions for total consideration of $493,354, net of cash acquired. The pro forma effects of these acquisitions on our operations were not material.

GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS

GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS	3 Months Ended
GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS	Nov. 30, 2020
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure	6. Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by reportable operating segment are as follows: August 31, Additions/ Foreign November 30, North America $ 4,604,441 $ 225,619 $ 647 $ 4,830,707 Europe 2,138,088 120,090 9,356 2,267,534 Growth Markets 967,291 48,909 12,970 1,029,170 Total $ 7,709,820 $ 394,618 $ 22,973 $ 8,127,411 Goodwill includes immaterial adjustments related to prior period acquisitions. Intangible Assets Our definite-lived intangible assets by major asset class are as follows: August 31, 2020 November 30, 2020 Intangible Asset Class Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount Customer-related $ 1,319,332 $ (495,367) $ 823,965 $ 1,386,214 $ (527,370) $ 858,844 Technology 150,765 (55,543) 95,222 170,600 (56,977) 113,623 Patents 129,295 (66,954) 62,341 128,399 (65,928) 62,471 Other 82,676 (34,986) 47,690 82,622 (36,575) 46,047 Total $ 1,682,068 $ (652,850) $ 1,029,218 $ 1,767,835 $ (686,850) $ 1,080,985 Total amortization related to our intangible assets was $67,207 and $53,372 for the three months ended November 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Estimated future amortization related to intangible assets held as of November 30, 2020 is as follows: Fiscal Year Estimated Amortization Remainder of 2021 $ 179,796 2022 198,541 2023 178,958 2024 158,361 2025 138,373 Thereafter 226,956 Total $ 1,080,985

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY	3 Months Ended
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY	Nov. 30, 2020
Equity [Abstract]
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY	7. Shareholders’ Equity Dividends Our dividend activity during the three months ended November 30, 2020 is as follows: Dividend Per Accenture plc Class A Accenture Canada Holdings Total Cash Dividend Payment Date Record Date Cash Outlay Record Date Cash Outlay November 13, 2020 $ 0.88 October 13, 2020 $ 557,419 October 9, 2020 $ 633 $ 558,052 The payment of the cash dividends also resulted in the issuance of an immaterial number of additional restricted share units to holders of restricted share units. Subsequent Event On December 16, 2020, the Board of Directors of Accenture plc declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.88 per share on its Class A ordinary shares for shareholders of record at the close of business on January 14, 2021 payable on February 12, 2021. The payment of the cash dividend will result in the issuance of an immaterial number of additional restricted share units to holders of restricted share units.

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS	3 Months Ended
FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS	Nov. 30, 2020
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS	8. Financial Instruments Derivatives In the normal course of business, we use derivative financial instruments to manage foreign currency exchange rate risk. Our derivative financial instruments consist of deliverable and non-deliverable foreign currency forward contracts. Cash Flow Hedges For a cash flow hedge, the effective portion of the change in estimated fair value of a hedging instrument is recorded in Accumulated other comprehensive loss as a separate component of Shareholders’ Equity and is reclassified into Cost of services in the Consolidated Income Statements during the period in which the hedged transaction is recognized. For information related to derivatives designated as cash flow hedges that were reclassified into Cost of services during the three months ended November 30, 2020 and 2019, as well as those expected to be reclassified into Cost of services in the next 12 months, see Note 4 (Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss) to these Consolidated Financial Statements. Other Derivatives Realized gains or losses and changes in the estimated fair value of foreign currency forward contracts that have not been designated as hedges were net gains of $28,324 and net losses $56,619 for the three months ended November 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Gains and losses on these contracts are recorded in Other income (expense), net in the Consolidated Income Statements and are offset by gains and losses on the related hedged items. Fair Value of Derivative Instruments The notional and fair values of all derivative instruments are as follows: November 30, 2020 August 31, 2020 Assets Cash Flow Hedges Other current assets $ 79,405 $ 75,871 Other non-current assets 50,138 50,914 Other Derivatives Other current assets 42,697 27,964 Total assets $ 172,240 $ 154,749 Liabilities Cash Flow Hedges Other accrued liabilities $ 12,883 $ 13,614 Other non-current liabilities 12,691 13,576 Other Derivatives Other accrued liabilities 5,428 11,828 Total liabilities $ 31,002 $ 39,018 Total fair value $ 141,238 $ 115,731 Total notional value $ 9,367,230 $ 9,600,691 We utilize standard counterparty master agreements containing provisions for the netting of certain foreign currency transaction obligations and for the set-off of certain obligations in the event of an insolvency of one of the parties to the transaction. In the Consolidated Balance Sheets, we record derivative assets and liabilities at gross fair value. The potential effect of netting derivative assets against liabilities under the counterparty master agreements is as follows: November 30, 2020 August 31, 2020 Net derivative assets $ 159,030 $ 129,520 Net derivative liabilities 17,792 13,789 Total fair value $ 141,238 $ 115,731

INCOME TAXES

INCOME TAXES	3 Months Ended
INCOME TAXES	Nov. 30, 2020
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
INCOME TAXES	9. Income Taxes We apply an estimated annual effective tax rate to our year-to-date operating results to determine the interim provision for income tax expense. In addition, we recognize taxes related to unusual or infrequent items or resulting from a change in judgment regarding a position taken in a prior year as discrete items in the interim period in which the event occurs.

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES	3 Months Ended
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES	Nov. 30, 2020
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES	10. Commitments and Contingencies Indemnifications and Guarantees In the normal course of business and in conjunction with certain client engagements, we have entered into contractual arrangements through which we may be obligated to indemnify clients with respect to certain matters. As of November 30, 2020 and August 31, 2020, our aggregate potential liability to our clients for expressly limited guarantees involving the performance of third parties was approximately $848,000 and $832,000, respectively, of which all but approximately $81,000 and $87,000, respectively, may be recovered from the other third parties if we are obligated to make payments to the indemnified parties as a consequence of a performance default by the other third parties. For arrangements with unspecified limitations, we cannot reasonably estimate the aggregate maximum potential liability, as it is inherently difficult to predict the maximum potential amount of such payments, due to the conditional nature and unique facts of each particular arrangement. To date, we have not been required to make any significant payment under any of the arrangements described above. We have assessed the current status of performance/payment risk related to arrangements with limited guarantees, warranty obligations, unspecified limitations and/or indemnification provisions and believe that any potential payments would be immaterial to the Consolidated Financial Statements, as a whole. Legal Contingencies As of November 30, 2020, we or our present personnel had been named as a defendant in various litigation matters. We and/or our personnel also from time to time are involved in investigations by various regulatory or legal authorities concerning matters arising in the course of our business around the world. Based on the present status of these matters, management believes the range of reasonably possible losses in addition to amounts accrued, net of insurance recoveries, will not have a material effect on our results of operations or financial condition.

SEGMENT REPORTING

SEGMENT REPORTING	3 Months Ended
SEGMENT REPORTING	Nov. 30, 2020
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
SEGMENT REPORTING	11. Segment Reporting Our reportable segments are our three geographic markets, which are North America, Europe and Growth Markets. Information regarding reportable segments, industry groups and type of work is as follows: Revenues Three Months Ended November 30, 2020 November 30, 2019 GEOGRAPHIC MARKETS North America $ 5,480,963 $ 5,287,812 Europe 3,967,408 3,789,657 Growth Markets 2,313,814 2,281,489 Total Revenues $ 11,762,185 $ 11,358,958 INDUSTRY GROUPS (1) Communications, Media & Technology $ 2,333,645 $ 2,245,470 Financial Services 2,346,291 2,190,107 Health & Public Service 2,211,889 1,969,214 Products 3,206,125 3,220,015 Resources 1,664,235 1,734,152 Total Revenues $ 11,762,185 $ 11,358,958 TYPE OF WORK Consulting $ 6,332,572 $ 6,377,251 Outsourcing 5,429,613 4,981,707 Total Revenues $ 11,762,185 $ 11,358,958 (1) Effective September 1, 2020, we revised the reporting of our industry groups to include amounts previously reported in Other. Prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform with the current period presentation. Operating Income Three Months Ended November 30, 2020 November 30, 2019 GEOGRAPHIC MARKETS North America $ 888,809 $ 828,407 Europe 629,430 558,951 Growth Markets 372,430 379,905 Total Operating Income $ 1,890,669 $ 1,767,263

BASIS OF PRESENTATION (Policies

BASIS OF PRESENTATION (Policies)	3 Months Ended
BASIS OF PRESENTATION (Policies)	Nov. 30, 2020
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	The accompanying unaudited interim Consolidated Financial Statements of Accenture plc and its controlled subsidiary companies have been prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) for quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and do not include all of the information and note disclosures required by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) for complete financial statements. We use the terms “Accenture,” “we” and “our” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements to refer to Accenture plc and its subsidiaries. These Consolidated Financial Statements should therefore be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2020 included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on October 22, 2020. The accompanying unaudited interim Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP, which requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect amounts reported in the Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying disclosures. Although these estimates are based on management’s best knowledge of current events and actions that we may undertake in the future, actual results may differ from those estimates. The Consolidated Financial Statements reflect all adjustments of a normal, recurring nature that are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair presentation of results for these interim periods. The results of operations for the three months ended November 30, 2020 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the fiscal year ending August 31, 2021.
Income Taxes	We apply an estimated annual effective tax rate to our year-to-date operating results to determine the interim provision for income tax expense. In addition, we recognize taxes related to unusual or infrequent items or resulting from a change in judgment regarding a position taken in a prior year as discrete items in the interim period in which the event occurs.
Commitments and Contingencies	In the normal course of business and in conjunction with certain client engagements, we have entered into contractual arrangements through which we may be obligated to indemnify clients with respect to certain matters. As of November 30, 2020 and August 31, 2020, our aggregate potential liability to our clients for expressly limited guarantees involving the performance of third parties was approximately $848,000 and $832,000, respectively, of which all but approximately $81,000 and $87,000, respectively, may be recovered from the other third parties if we are obligated to make payments to the indemnified parties as a consequence of a performance default by the other third parties. For arrangements with unspecified limitations, we cannot reasonably estimate the aggregate maximum potential liability, as it is inherently difficult to predict the maximum potential amount of such payments, due to the conditional nature and unique facts of each particular arrangement.

BASIS OF PRESENTATION Impact of

BASIS OF PRESENTATION Impact of New Accounting Pronouncements Adopted (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2020
Accounting Standards Update and Change in Accounting Principle [Abstract]
Non-current investments	Our non-current investments are as follows: November 30, 2020 August 31, 2020 Equity method investments $ 211,765 $ 240,446 Investments without readily determinable fair values 87,141 84,068 Total non-current investments $ 298,906 $ 324,514
Depreciation, amortization and other	See table below for summary of depreciation on fixed assets, deferred transition amortization, intangible assets amortization and operating lease cost for the three months ended November 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Three Months Ended November 30, 2020 November 30, 2019 Depreciation $ 133,918 $ 97,090 Amortization - Deferred transition 81,356 67,914 Amortization - Intangible assets 67,207 53,372 Other - Operating lease cost 185,719 181,082 Total depreciation, amortization and other $ 468,200 $ 399,458

REVENUES Contract Balances (Tab

REVENUES Contract Balances (Tables)	3 Months Ended
REVENUES Contract Balances (Tables)	Nov. 30, 2020
Revenues [Abstract]
Contract with Customer, Asset and Liability [Table Text Block]	The following table provides information about the balances of our Receivables and Contract assets, net of allowance, and Contract liabilities (Deferred revenues): As of November 30, 2020 As of August 31, 2020 Receivables $ 7,799,770 $ 7,192,110 Contract assets (current) 747,941 654,782 Receivables and contract assets, net of allowance (current) 8,547,711 7,846,892 Contract assets (non-current) 44,517 43,257 Deferred revenues (current) 3,524,781 3,636,741 Deferred revenues (non-current) 668,267 690,931

EARNINGS PER SHARE (Tables)

EARNINGS PER SHARE (Tables)	3 Months Ended
EARNINGS PER SHARE (Tables)	Nov. 30, 2020
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share	Basic and diluted earnings per share are calculated as follows: Three Months Ended November 30, 2020 November 30, 2019 Basic earnings per share Net income attributable to Accenture plc $ 1,500,276 $ 1,356,968 Basic weighted average Class A ordinary shares 634,271,482 635,722,309 Basic earnings per share $ 2.37 $ 2.13 Diluted earnings per share Net income attributable to Accenture plc $ 1,500,276 $ 1,356,968 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest in Accenture Canada Holdings Inc. (1) 1,700 1,741 Net income for diluted earnings per share calculation $ 1,501,976 $ 1,358,709 Basic weighted average Class A ordinary shares 634,271,482 635,722,309 Class A ordinary shares issuable upon redemption/exchange of noncontrolling interest (1) 718,767 815,515 Diluted effect of employee compensation related to Class A ordinary shares 11,633,343 12,626,225 Diluted effect of share purchase plans related to Class A ordinary shares 256,143 225,395 Diluted weighted average Class A ordinary shares 646,879,735 649,389,444 Diluted earnings per share $ 2.32 $ 2.09

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSI_2

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS (Tables)	3 Months Ended
ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS (Tables)	Nov. 30, 2020
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	The following table summarizes the changes in the accumulated balances for each component of accumulated other comprehensive loss attributable to Accenture plc: Three Months Ended November 30, 2020 November 30, 2019 Foreign currency translation Beginning balance $ (1,010,279) $ (1,207,975) Foreign currency translation 67,443 40,145 Income tax benefit (expense) 1,313 (1,264) Portion attributable to noncontrolling interests (1,444) (1,151) Foreign currency translation, net of tax 67,312 37,730 Ending balance (942,967) (1,170,245) Defined benefit plans Beginning balance (615,223) (672,323) Reclassifications into net periodic pension and 13,595 12,784 Income tax benefit (expense) (2,702) (4,021) Portion attributable to noncontrolling interests (12) (11) Defined benefit plans, net of tax 10,881 8,752 Ending balance (604,342) (663,571) Cash flow hedges Beginning balance 63,714 38,993 Unrealized gain (loss) 25,364 38,408 Reclassification adjustments into Cost of services (20,895) (20,019) Income tax benefit (expense) (71) (4,244) Portion attributable to noncontrolling interests (5) (18) Cash flow hedges, net of tax 4,393 14,127 Ending balance (2) 68,107 53,120 Investments Beginning balance (49) 728 Unrealized gain (loss) 49 — Income tax benefit (expense) — — Portion attributable to noncontrolling interests — — Investments, net of tax 49 — Ending balance — 728 Accumulated other comprehensive loss $ (1,479,202) $ (1,779,968) (1) Reclassifications into net periodic pension and post-retirement expense are recognized in Cost of services, Sales and marketing, General and administrative costs and non-operating expenses.

GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS

GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS (Tables)	3 Months Ended
GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS (Tables)	Nov. 30, 2020
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]	The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by reportable operating segment are as follows: August 31, Additions/ Foreign November 30, North America $ 4,604,441 $ 225,619 $ 647 $ 4,830,707 Europe 2,138,088 120,090 9,356 2,267,534 Growth Markets 967,291 48,909 12,970 1,029,170 Total $ 7,709,820 $ 394,618 $ 22,973 $ 8,127,411
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]	Our definite-lived intangible assets by major asset class are as follows: August 31, 2020 November 30, 2020 Intangible Asset Class Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount Customer-related $ 1,319,332 $ (495,367) $ 823,965 $ 1,386,214 $ (527,370) $ 858,844 Technology 150,765 (55,543) 95,222 170,600 (56,977) 113,623 Patents 129,295 (66,954) 62,341 128,399 (65,928) 62,471 Other 82,676 (34,986) 47,690 82,622 (36,575) 46,047 Total $ 1,682,068 $ (652,850) $ 1,029,218 $ 1,767,835 $ (686,850) $ 1,080,985
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]	Estimated future amortization related to intangible assets held as of November 30, 2020 is as follows: Fiscal Year Estimated Amortization Remainder of 2021 $ 179,796 2022 198,541 2023 178,958 2024 158,361 2025 138,373 Thereafter 226,956 Total $ 1,080,985

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (Tables)

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (Tables)	3 Months Ended
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (Tables)	Nov. 30, 2020
Equity [Abstract]
Schedule of Dividend Activity	Our dividend activity during the three months ended November 30, 2020 is as follows: Dividend Per Accenture plc Class A Accenture Canada Holdings Total Cash Dividend Payment Date Record Date Cash Outlay Record Date Cash Outlay November 13, 2020 $ 0.88 October 13, 2020 $ 557,419 October 9, 2020 $ 633 $ 558,052

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (Tables)

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (Tables)	3 Months Ended
FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (Tables)	Nov. 30, 2020
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Notional and Fair Values of All Derivative Instruments	The notional and fair values of all derivative instruments are as follows: November 30, 2020 August 31, 2020 Assets Cash Flow Hedges Other current assets $ 79,405 $ 75,871 Other non-current assets 50,138 50,914 Other Derivatives Other current assets 42,697 27,964 Total assets $ 172,240 $ 154,749 Liabilities Cash Flow Hedges Other accrued liabilities $ 12,883 $ 13,614 Other non-current liabilities 12,691 13,576 Other Derivatives Other accrued liabilities 5,428 11,828 Total liabilities $ 31,002 $ 39,018 Total fair value $ 141,238 $ 115,731 Total notional value $ 9,367,230 $ 9,600,691
Offsetting Derivative Assets and Liabilities Table	We utilize standard counterparty master agreements containing provisions for the netting of certain foreign currency transaction obligations and for the set-off of certain obligations in the event of an insolvency of one of the parties to the transaction. In the Consolidated Balance Sheets, we record derivative assets and liabilities at gross fair value. The potential effect of netting derivative assets against liabilities under the counterparty master agreements is as follows: November 30, 2020 August 31, 2020 Net derivative assets $ 159,030 $ 129,520 Net derivative liabilities 17,792 13,789 Total fair value $ 141,238 $ 115,731

SEGMENT REPORTING (Tables)

SEGMENT REPORTING (Tables)	3 Months Ended
SEGMENT REPORTING (Tables)	Nov. 30, 2020
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Reportable Operating Segments	Operating Income Three Months Ended November 30, 2020 November 30, 2019 GEOGRAPHIC MARKETS North America $ 888,809 $ 828,407 Europe 629,430 558,951 Growth Markets 372,430 379,905 Total Operating Income $ 1,890,669 $ 1,767,263
Schedule of segment reporting revenues	Our reportable segments are our three geographic markets, which are North America, Europe and Growth Markets. Information regarding reportable segments, industry groups and type of work is as follows: Revenues Three Months Ended November 30, 2020 November 30, 2019 GEOGRAPHIC MARKETS North America $ 5,480,963 $ 5,287,812 Europe 3,967,408 3,789,657 Growth Markets 2,313,814 2,281,489 Total Revenues $ 11,762,185 $ 11,358,958 INDUSTRY GROUPS (1) Communications, Media & Technology $ 2,333,645 $ 2,245,470 Financial Services 2,346,291 2,190,107 Health & Public Service 2,211,889 1,969,214 Products 3,206,125 3,220,015 Resources 1,664,235 1,734,152 Total Revenues $ 11,762,185 $ 11,358,958 TYPE OF WORK Consulting $ 6,332,572 $ 6,377,251 Outsourcing 5,429,613 4,981,707 Total Revenues $ 11,762,185 $ 11,358,958 (1) Effective September 1, 2020, we revised the reporting of our industry groups to include amounts previously reported in Other. Prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform with the current period presentation.

BASIS OF PRESENTATION - Additio

BASIS OF PRESENTATION - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2020	Nov. 30, 2019	Aug. 31, 2020
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Current	$ 38,315		$ 40,277
Depreciation	133,918	$ 97,090
Accumulated depreciation	2,414,951		2,313,731
DeferredTransitionAmortizationExpense	81,356	$ 67,914
Retained earnings	13,276,702		12,375,533
Contract assets, (current)	$ 747,941		$ 654,782

BASIS OF PRESENTATION - Depreci

BASIS OF PRESENTATION - Depreciation and Amortization (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2020	Nov. 30, 2019	Aug. 31, 2020
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Depreciation	$ 133,918	$ 97,090
Amortization of Intangible Assets	67,207	53,372
Operating Lease, Cost	185,719	181,082
Depreciation, Amortization and Other	468,200	399,458
Accumulated depreciation	2,414,951		$ 2,313,731
DeferredTransitionAmortizationExpense	$ 81,356	$ 67,914

BASIS OF PRESENTATION- Debt and

BASIS OF PRESENTATION- Debt and Equity Securities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Nov. 30, 2020	Aug. 31, 2020
Equity Securities without Readily Determinable Fair Value [Line Items]
Equity Method Investments	$ 211,765	$ 240,446
Equity Securities Without Readily Determinable Fair Values	87,141	84,068
Investments	$ 298,906	$ 324,514
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	19.00%	22.00%
Equity Method Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	$ 850,825	$ 956,308
acn_DuckCreekEquityMethodInvestment [Member]
Equity Securities without Readily Determinable Fair Value [Line Items]
Equity Method Investments	$ 201,810	$ 230,219

REVENUES Performance Obligation

REVENUES Performance Obligations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Billions	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021	Nov. 30, 2020	Aug. 31, 2020
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Amount			$ 19	$ 20
Forecast [Member]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Percentage	19.00%	62.00%

REVENUES Contract Balances (Det

REVENUES Contract Balances (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended
REVENUES Contract Balances (Details) - USD ($)	Nov. 30, 2020	Nov. 30, 2019	Aug. 31, 2020
Revenues [Abstract]
Deferred transition revenues	$ 668,267,000		$ 690,931,000
Deferred Costs, Noncurrent	715,897,000		723,168,000
Receivables, net of allowance	7,799,770,000		7,192,110,000
Contract assets, (current)	747,941,000		654,782,000
Receivables and contract assets	8,547,711,000		7,846,892,000
Contract assets (non-current)	44,517,000		43,257,000
Deferred revenues (current)	3,524,781,000		3,636,741,000
Deferred revenues (non-current)	668,267,000		$ 690,931,000
Contract with Customer, Liability, Revenue Recognized	$ 2,000,000,000	$ 1,800,000,000

EARNINGS PER SHARE (Details)

EARNINGS PER SHARE (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2020	Nov. 30, 2019
Basic earnings per share
Net income attributable to Accenture plc	$ 1,500,276	$ 1,356,968
Basic weighted average Class A ordinary shares	634,271,482	635,722,309
Basic earnings per share	$ 2.37	$ 2.13
Diluted earnings per share
NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO ACCENTURE PLC	$ 1,500,276	$ 1,356,968
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest in Accenture Canada Holdings Inc. (1)	1,700	1,741
Net income for diluted earnings per share calculation	$ 1,501,976	$ 1,358,709
Basic weighted average Class A ordinary shares	634,271,482	635,722,309
Class A ordinary shares issuable upon redemption/exchange of noncontrolling interest (1)	718,767	815,515
Diluted effect of employee compensation related to Class A ordinary shares	11,633,343	12,626,225
Diluted effect of share purchase plans related to Class A ordinary shares	256,143	225,395
Diluted weighted average Class A ordinary shares	646,879,735	649,389,444
Diluted earnings per share	$ 2.32	$ 2.09

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSI_3

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended
		Nov. 30, 2020	Nov. 30, 2019	Aug. 31, 2020
Foreign currency translation
Beginning balance		$ (1,010,279)	$ (1,207,975)
Foreign currency translation		67,443	40,145
Income tax benefit (expense)		1,313	(1,264)
Portion attributable to noncontrolling interests		(1,444)	(1,151)
Foreign currency translation, net of tax		67,312	37,730
Ending balance		(942,967)	(1,170,245)
Defined benefit plans
Beginning balance		(615,223)	(672,323)
Reclassifications into net periodic pension and post-retirement expense (1)	[1]	13,595	12,784
Income tax benefit (expense)		(2,702)	(4,021)
Portion attributable to noncontrolling interests		(12)	(11)
Defined benefit plans, net of tax		10,881	8,752
Ending balance		(604,342)	(663,571)
Cash flow hedges
Beginning balance		63,714	38,993
Unrealized gain (loss)		25,364	38,408
Reclassification adjustments into Cost of services		(20,895)	(20,019)
Income tax benefit (expense)		(71)	(4,244)
Portion attributable to noncontrolling interests		(5)	(18)
Cash flow hedges, net of tax		4,393	14,127
Ending balance (2)	[2]	68,107	53,120
Investments
Beginning balance		(49)	728
Unrealized gain (loss)		(49)	0
Income tax benefit (expense)		0	0
Portion attributable to noncontrolling interests		0	0
Investments, net of tax		(49)	0
Ending balance		0	728
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		$ (1,479,202)	$ (1,779,968)	$ (1,561,837)

[1]	Reclassifications into net periodic pension and post-retirement expense are recognized in Cost of services, Sales and marketing, General and administrative costs and non-operating expenses.
[2]	As of November 30, 2020, $66,522 of net unrealized gains related to derivatives designated as cash flow hedges is expected to be reclassified into Cost of services in the next twelve months.

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSI_4

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2020USD ($)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months	$ 66,522

BUSINESS COMBINATIONS- Addition

BUSINESS COMBINATIONS- Additional Information (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2020USD ($)
Series of Individually Immaterial Business Acquisitions [Member]
Business Acquisitions [Line Items]
Cash Consideration	$ 493,354

GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSET_2

GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS - Goodwill Rollforward (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2020USD ($)
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 7,709,820
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	394,618
Goodwill, Translation Adjustments	22,973
Goodwill	8,127,411
North America [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill	4,604,441
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	225,619
Goodwill, Translation Adjustments	647
Goodwill	4,830,707
Europe [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill	2,138,088
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	120,090
Goodwill, Translation Adjustments	9,356
Goodwill	2,267,534
Growth Markets [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill	967,291
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	48,909
Goodwill, Translation Adjustments	12,970
Goodwill	$ 1,029,170

GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSET_3

GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS - Intangible Table by Major Class (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Nov. 30, 2020	Aug. 31, 2020
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 1,767,835	$ 1,682,068
Accumulated Amortization	(686,850)	(652,850)
Net Carrying Amount	1,080,985	1,029,218
Customer-related
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	1,386,214	1,319,332
Accumulated Amortization	(527,370)	(495,367)
Net Carrying Amount	858,844	823,965
Technology
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	170,600	150,765
Accumulated Amortization	(56,977)	(55,543)
Net Carrying Amount	113,623	95,222
Patents
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	128,399	129,295
Accumulated Amortization	(65,928)	(66,954)
Net Carrying Amount	62,471	62,341
Other
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	82,622	82,676
Accumulated Amortization	(36,575)	(34,986)
Net Carrying Amount	$ 46,047	$ 47,690

GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSET_4

GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS - Amortization (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2020	Nov. 30, 2019	Aug. 31, 2020
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Amortization of Intangible Assets	$ 67,207	$ 53,372
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Maturity Schedule [Abstract]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Remainder of Fiscal Year	179,796
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Expected Amortization, Year One	198,541
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two	178,958
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three	158,361
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four	138,373
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Four	226,956
Net Carrying Amount	$ 1,080,985		$ 1,029,218

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - Dividend

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - Dividend Activity (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2020	Nov. 30, 2019
Dividends [Line Items]
Dividend Per Share	$ 0.88	$ 0.80
Dividend Payment November 2020
Dividends [Line Items]
Dividend Payment Date	Nov. 13, 2020
Dividend Per Share	$ 0.88
Cash Outlay	$ 558,052
Dividend Payment November 2020 \| Accenture Canada Holdings Inc Exchangeable Shares [Member]
Dividends [Line Items]
Record Date	Oct. 9, 2020
Cash Outlay	$ 633
Dividend Payment November 2020 \| Class A ordinary shares
Dividends [Line Items]
Record Date	Oct. 13, 2020
Cash Outlay	$ 557,419

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - Subseque

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - Subsequent Event - Additional Information (Details) - $ / shares	Feb. 12, 2021	Jan. 14, 2021	Dec. 16, 2020	Nov. 30, 2020
Dividends Payable [Line Items]
Dividends Payable, Amount Per Share				$ 0.88
Dividend Declared [Member] \| Class A Ordinary Shares \| Subsequent Event [Member]
Dividends Payable [Line Items]
Cash dividend declared date			Dec. 16, 2020
Cash dividend record date		Jan. 14, 2021
Cash dividend payment date	Feb. 12, 2021

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS - Additio

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2020	Nov. 30, 2019
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Realized gains or (losses) and changes in the estimated fair value of derivatives not designated as hedges	$ 28,324	$ (56,619)

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS - Notiona

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS - Notional and Fair Values of All Derivative Instruments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Nov. 30, 2020	Aug. 31, 2020
Assets
Fair value of derivative assets	$ 172,240	$ 154,749
Liabilities
Fair value of derivative liabilities	31,002	39,018
Total fair value	141,238	115,731
Derivative, Notional Amount	9,367,230	9,600,691
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] \| Other current assets
Assets
Fair value of derivative assets	79,405	75,871
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] \| Other non-current assets
Assets
Fair value of derivative assets	50,138	50,914
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] \| Other Current Liabilities [Member]
Liabilities
Fair value of derivative liabilities	12,883	13,614
Cash Flow Hedging [Member] \| Other non-current liabilities
Liabilities
Fair value of derivative liabilities	12,691	13,576
Other Derivatives \| Other current assets
Assets
Fair value of derivative assets	42,697	27,964
Other Derivatives \| Other Current Liabilities [Member]
Liabilities
Fair value of derivative liabilities	$ 5,428	$ 11,828

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS Offsettin

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS Offsetting Derivative Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Nov. 30, 2020	Aug. 31, 2020
Offsetting [Abstract]
Net derivative assets	$ 159,030	$ 129,520
Net derivative liabilities	17,792	13,789
Total fair value	$ 141,238	$ 115,731

INCOME TAXES (Details)

INCOME TAXES (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
INCOME TAXES (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Nov. 30, 2020	Nov. 30, 2019
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent	23.40%	23.60%
Gain on equity method investment	$ 119,700	$ 60,492
Gain on equity method investment, tax impact	$ 22,906	$ 10,183
Effective tax rate excluding equity method investment gain	23.70%	23.90%

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES -

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Nov. 30, 2020	Aug. 31, 2020
Indemnifications and Guarantees [Abstract]
Expressly limited performance guarantee	$ 848,000	$ 832,000
Portion of guarantee not recoverable	$ 81,000	$ 87,000

SEGMENT REPORTING - Reportable

SEGMENT REPORTING - Reportable Operating Segments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2020	Nov. 30, 2019
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 11,762,185	$ 11,358,958
Operating income	1,890,669	1,767,263
Consulting Revenue [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	6,332,572	6,377,251
Outsourcing Revenue [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	5,429,613	4,981,707
North America [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	5,480,963	5,287,812
Operating income	888,809	828,407
Europe [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	3,967,408	3,789,657
Operating income	629,430	558,951
Growth Markets [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	2,313,814	2,281,489
Operating income	372,430	379,905
Communications, Media & Technology
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	2,333,645	2,245,470
Financial Services
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	2,346,291	2,190,107
Health & Public Service
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	2,211,889	1,969,214
Products
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	3,206,125	3,220,015
Resources
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 1,664,235	$ 1,734,152