New ABA Chair appointed to lead banking industry

ANZ CEO Nuno Matos has been appointed as the new Chair of the ABA Council, as banks continue their focus on meeting the needs of customers as well as playing a crucial role in the Australian economy. 

At the ABA’s Annual General Meeting today in Melbourne, ING CEO Melanie Evans was also reappointed as Deputy Chair.

Mr Matos thanked outgoing Chair Andrew Irvine for his leadership of the industry across the past two years.

“Andrew has provided steady and effective leadership during an important period for our sector, guiding the industry through significant policy and commercial issues.” 

Mr Matos said priorities for the ABA included building a competitive banking system that meets the needs of all Australians, safeguarding access to essential banking services and protecting banking customers from the threat of scams.

“The ABA plays an incredibly important role in supporting the ability of our industry to deliver for our customers, employees, shareholders and the community. I look forward to working with the ABA and members to continue this essential work,” Mr Matos said.

ABA CEO Simon Birmingham congratulated Mr Matos on his appointment and said he looked forward to working closely with him over the Chair’s two-year term. 

“The way people bank is changing rapidly, and strong industry leadership is essential to ensure we maximise the economic contribution of banks while continuing to deliver safe, reliable and accessible banking services for all Australians,” Mr Birmingham said.

Mr Birmingham also thanked Mr Irvine for his leadership during the past two years.

“Andrew has shown exceptional leadership over the past two years, guiding the industry through complex challenges while keeping the needs of customers firmly at the centre. 

“His collaborative approach and strategic focus have strengthened the ABA’s work and delivered meaningful outcomes for the sector,” Mr Birmingham said.

NAB CEO Andrew Irvine said it has been a privilege to serve as ABA Chair.

“Over this time the banking sector has supported customers through shifting economic conditions, implemented the Scam-Safe Accord, extended Bank@Post services and supported changes to the payments system.
 
“Importantly we have worked together to ensure cash remains part of Australia’s payments landscape for years to come, in a sustainable and cost-effective way.
 
“I congratulate Nuno Matos on his appointment and look forward to continuing to work together as we take the industry forward,” Mr Irvine said. 

ABA Chairs are appointed by the ABA Council for a period of two years.