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ANZ’s head of Asia Pacific engagement will lead the banking association from 18 August.
The Australian Banking Association (ABA) has appointed former federal finance minister and Senate leader Simon Birmingham as its CEO.
Birmingham will start on 18 August and replace Anna Bligh, who announced her retirement in February and will finish at the association on 22 August after eight years as CEO.
The new ABA chief is Australia and New Zealand Banking Group (ANZ’s) head of Asia Pacific engagement and chairman, South Australia.
He previously served in the Australian Parliament as a Liberal Senator for South Australia from 2007 to 2025. His roles included minister for finance, leader of the government in the Senate, minister for trade, tourism and investment, minister for education and training, and manager of government business in the Senate.
He was shadow minister for foreign affairs from 2022 until his retirement from the Senate.
Prior to politics, he worked with the Winemakers’ Federation of Australia and the Australian Hotels Association. He holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Adelaide.
Commenting on the appointment, ABA Chair and National Australia Bank (NAB) CEO Andrew Irvine said: “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.
“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.
“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 added: “I thank the ABA board for their vote of confidence in my ability to lead this 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.
“I also want to acknowledge ANZ for their support and encouragement through this process.
“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,” he finished.
Commenting on Bligh’s upcoming departure, Irvine said: “Anna has had a remarkable and lasting impact on this industry and how we look after our customers. We are enormously grateful for her time advocating for customers, particularly the disadvantaged, across financial services.”
[Related: ABA announces CEO retirement]
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