The Australian Banking Association (ABA) has appointed former Federal Finance Minister and Senate Leader Simon Birmingham as its next chief executive officer. The appointment was announced by ABA Chair and NAB CEO Andrew Irvine.
“We are delighted to have Simon lead our industry and help ensure Australian banks continue making the right decisions for customers and the broader economy,” Irvine said in a media release.
Birmingham will officially begin on August 18, replacing Anna Bligh, who will conclude her term on August 22 after more than eight years in the role.
Birmingham served in the Australian Senate from 2007 to 2025, retiring from politics in January.
He held a range of senior government roles including minister for finance, minister for trade, tourism, and investment, minister for education and training, and leader of the government in the Senate. He was also the leader of the Liberal Party’s moderate faction and held the position of shadow minister for foreign affairs until his retirement.
“He is a recognised leader who has had deep involvement in significant and long-lasting policy decisions and actions throughout his career that have helped to shape our country,” Irvine 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.”
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.
Following his political career, he became head of Asia Pacific engagement and chair for South Australia at ANZ.
Birmingham said he was honoured to lead ABA and outlined his priorities for the role.
“I thank the ABA board for their vote of confidence in my ability to lead this industry,” he said.
“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. I also want to acknowledge ANZ for their support and encouragement through this process.”
He added that banks play a critical role across all levels of the Australian economy.
“Banks are central to our economy, essential to businesses of all sizes and entrusted by Australians with their personal financial wellbeing,” Birmingham said.
“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.”
Bligh, a former Queensland Labor premier, was appointed ABA CEO in April 2017. She will finish on Aug. 22, following a transition period.
“Anna has had a remarkable and lasting impact on this industry and how we look after our customers,” Irvine said. “We are enormously grateful for her time advocating for customers, particularly the disadvantaged, across financial services.”
