Skip to main content
Financial Assistance Hub

Social Impact Investing Taskforce a welcome first step

3 April 2019

Today’s announcement of a Social Impact Investing Taskforce and three trial sites is a welcome step by the Federal Government and answers the banking industry’s call for a clear direction on this innovative solution to tackling entrenched disadvantage.

CEO of the Australian Banking Association Anna Bligh said banks welcome the announcement by the Treasurer, Minister Fletcher and Senator Jane Hume today and would work with the taskforce during its consultation.

“Social Impact Investing represents an innovative way to tackle entrenched disadvantage, with positive signs from this approach emerging from the United Kingdom,” Ms Bligh said.

“Addressing entrenched disadvantage will not only lift individuals out of poverty but its benefits will also be felt across the economy.

“Banks look forward to playing their part in this new policy area to ensure it’s a success in achieving its goals,” she said.

ENDS
Contact: Rory Grant 0475 741 007

Latest news

1 / 3
Media Releases
APRA capital reforms a potential boost to the economy
29 June 2026

The ABA welcomes today’s consultation paper from APRA on proposed changes to bank credit risk capital settings, which have the potential to support more lending and lift productivity. ABA CEO Simon Birmingham said the consultation was a welcome step towards a more efficient capital framework while still retaining the underlying strength and stability of Australia’s… Read more »

Read more
Transcript
ABA CEO Simon Birmingham transcript of interview on Sky News with Ross Greenwood
21 June 2026

E&OETV InterviewSky News Business Weekend with Ross Greenwood21 June 2026 Topics: Economic contribution of banks Ross Greenwood: Well Australia’s banks, love them or loathe them, they are a necessity. We need them strong to provide the security for lenders and depositors. We need them well-regulated to keep them from again putting profit ahead of their… Read more »

Read more
Speech
The value of banking: ABA CEO Simon Birmingham’s address to Banking 2026
17 June 2026

ABA CEO Simon Birmingham delivered the following introductory remarks ahead of a panel on the value of banking to the Australian economy, launching new Mandala research, at the 2026 ABA Banking Conference. Our piece of work that has been released today, Mandala providing the intellectual backdrop and analysis to support us in this, the essential… Read more »

Read more