19 May 2017
Sydney, 18 May 2017: Deputy Australian Bankers’ Association Chairman and Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Chief Executive Mike Hirst has today described rumours of a split in the ABA as “complete rubbish”.
“From time to time there are occasions where banks have different views and different commercial interests. However, 99 per cent of the time we agree,” Mr Hirst said.
“As individual members we each have the strength and respect for each other that allows us to have robust discussions on a variety of issues.
“Together we are a strong industry with a strong industry association working to provide better banking for Australia’s customers,” he said.
ABA Chief Executive Anna Bligh has been in regular contact with non-major bank CEOs, including a teleconference with all regional bank CEOs as recently as yesterday afternoon, and has several scheduled meetings with non-major bank executives in the coming days.
ENDS
Contact: Stephanie Arena 0477 470 677 or Nic Frankham 0435 963 913
Latest news
The ABA welcomes APRA’s proposals to make the internal ratings-based (IRB) accreditation process simpler and more transparent, giving mid-sized banks a competitive boost. ABA CEO Simon Birmingham said the changes would support competition and deliver better outcomes for customers. “This is a practical and sensible pro‑competition step from APRA,” Mr Birmingham said. “When fully implemented,… Read more »
E&OEInterview on Sky News with Cheng Lei Cheng Lei: Australian banks closed 155 branches over the last year, but the rate of closures has slowed. For the implications, let’s bring in Australian Banking Association Chief Executive and former Liberal Minister Simon Birmingham. Mr Birmingham, welcome to the show – great to talk to you in… Read more »
Australian banks welcome the Federal Government’s release of an updated Regulatory Initiatives Grid, helping to ensure there is more transparency and coordination when new financial rules are introduced. The ABA particularly welcomes new principles that streamline coordination between regulators, reducing duplication and regulatory burden across the industry. ABA CEO Simon Birmingham said the Grid was… Read more »