8 February 2023
The Australian Banking Association (ABA) broadly supports the intention of the National Reconstruction Fund Corporation Bill 2022 and the National Reconstruction Fund (Fund), which is expected to support and diversify Australia’s emerging industry sectors but has some concerns in relation to the Fund’s design and implementation, including the proposed priority areas, scope of the investment mandate and how these matters may impact on the crowding out of the private sector market that is otherwise willing and able to invest in these areas. It is noted that banks already invest in many of the priority areas proposed by the Government and investments in these areas would be better suited towards the beginning of their lifecycle where it is more difficult for banks to manage the risk profile. The ABA recommends it being a requirement of the investment mandate to consult with traditional private sector participants before making an investment by the Fund, such as via a panel of financiers. Government should assess the commerciality of each prospective investment and refer it to the private sector where it is sensible to do so from the perspective of return and/or risk appetite.
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ABA submission to the ISSB Consultation on Agenda Priorities.
The ABA supports the introduction of mandatory climate-related financial disclosures aligned with the ISSB, and we feel that the proposed model generally strikes an appropriate balance. The submission makes key points across six areas: phased approach, reporting content, reporting location, assurance, continuous disclosure and the modified liability approach.
The ABA’s submission to the ACCC’s Retail Deposits Inquiry 2023. Australian banks continue to provide a competitive, dynamic, and innovative marketplace for deposits. Banks are also cognisant of the variety of uses for deposit accounts and strive to provide products and services that meet the needs of customers.