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
Small business reaping benefits of stronger competition in lending market 
17 August 2026

Small businesses are benefiting from more favourable lending conditions thanks to stronger competition, as the full extent of banking support for these businesses is laid out in a new report released today by the Australian Banking Association.  The ABA’s latest industry report focusing on small and medium businesses finds:  ABA CEO Simon Birmingham said the… Read more »

Read more
Media Releases
Banks urge passage of Cash Distribution legislation 
12 August 2026

The ABA urges the final passage of the Cash Distribution Framework Bill 2026 and accompanying legislation through the Senate this fortnight.  ABA CEO Simon Birmingham said the legislation was a critical safety net to protect the long-term availability of cash for Australians who still rely on it.  “Cash remains an important payment option for many Australians,… Read more »

Read more
Transcript
ABA CEO Simon Birmingham interview with 2SM’s Tim Webster on Census scams
12 August 2026

E&OERadio Interview2SM Sydney12 August 2026 Topics: Census scams Tim Webster: And Simon Birmingham is the CEO of the Australian Banking Association, and he’s jumped on the line for us. G’day, thanks for your time. Simon Birmingham: Good morning, Tim. Good to be with you. Tim Webster: Yeah, I did mention it to the listeners yesterday,… Read more »

Read more