23 August 2016
Sydney, 23 August 2016: Today’s revelation by Manager of Opposition Business, Tony Burke MP, that Labor intends to use its proposed royal commission to test the strength of the Government’s one-seat majority proves Labor’s motivations are purely political.
Australian Bankers’ Association Chief Executive Steven Münchenberg said: “It says a lot that Labor has not produced a terms of reference in the four months since it first called for a royal commission – yet has clearly locked down its use as a political tactic against the Government.”
Mr Burke warned the Government that Labor intends to move Parliamentary motions for a suspension of standing orders in favour of a debate and vote on the proposed inquiry when Parliament resumes next week.
“Labor has made all sorts of claims for a royal commission but clearly the real reason is just to attack the Government. It is disappointing that this political tactic risks undermining confidence in our banking system which sits at the core of the economy, at a time of growing global uncertainty.
“In the meantime, banks will get on with implementing comprehensive new measures to protect customer interests, increase transparency and accountability and build trust and confidence in banks.”
ENDS
Contact: Stephanie Arena 0477 470 677 or Nic Frankham 0435 963 913
Latest news
Australian banks strongly support the RBA’s proposed ban on debit and credit card surcharges, while overwhelmingly calling for an alternative pathway forward on interchange fees. The ABA has made the following calls in a submission to the RBA’s current consultation on the Review of Merchant Card Payment Costs and Surcharging: ABA CEO Simon Birmingham said… Read more »
Australia’s banks welcome the passing through the Senate of new legislation to ensure payments laws are up-to-date and reflect today’s digital economy. The new laws will bring digital wallets, cash distribution services, buy now, pay later schemes and other emerging payment methods within regulatory oversight, significantly enhancing protections for customers. ABA CEO Simon Birmingham said… Read more »
The ABA welcomes the passage through the House of critical legislation to ensure Australia’s payments regulatory framework is brought up-to-date and urges the Senate to quickly pass this overdue legislation too. The proposed legislation will bring digital wallets, cash distribution services, buy now, pay later schemes and other emerging payment methods within regulatory oversight, significantly… Read more »