Former finance minister appointed to lead Australian Banking Association
Australia’s former finance minister will lead one of the country’s largest trade associations for the banking industry.
Former senator and federal minister Simon Birmingham will join the Australian Banking Association (ABA) as chief executive officer from August 18, ABA chair and National Australia Bank CEO Andrew Irvine announced this morning.
Irvine said that in his new role, Birmingham will lead the banking industry and “help ensure Australian banks continue making the right decisions for customers and the broader economy”.
“He is a recognised leader who has had a deep involvement in significant and long-lasting policy decisions and actions throughout his career that have helped shape our country,” he said.
“Simon’s ability to navigate difficult and complex environments, bringing together varied interests and perspectives, makes him ideal for this role. He will be a sensible, consistent and respected voice on behalf of the industry.”
Birmingham takes over from former Queensland Labor Premier Anna Bligh AC, who was appointed to the role in April 2017 and will have her final day on August 22.
Birmingham, who was the leader of the Liberal Party’s moderate faction, was a senator for South Australia from 2007 until his retirement from politics in January 2025.
During this time, he held ministerial portfolios ranging from Education and Training Minister to Trade, Tourism and Investment Minister, Finance Minister and Government Senate Leader.
Before entering politics, Birmingham was director of stakeholder relations at the Winemakers’ Federation of Australia and national manager of public affairs at the Australian Hotels Association.
Since leaving politics, he has been head of Asia Pacific engagement and chair for South Australia at ANZ.
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Birmingham thanked the ABA board for trusting him to lead the banking industry.
“As the ABA CEO, I will always put trust in Australia’s banking system first, pursue a competitive regulatory environment, and work to ensure innovation in banking strengthens Australia’s financial interests,” he said.
“Banks are central to our economy, essential to businesses of all sizes and entrusted by Australians with their personal financial wellbeing.
“From trade and capital flows from large and international banks, to the choice offered by smaller banks, regional banks and customer-owned organisations, a strong, healthy, customer-focused financial services sector is vital for all Australians.”
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