Simon Birmingham

As Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Banking Association Simon Birmingham leads an organisation representing 20 of Australia’s leading banks. The ABA works to enhance the banking industry’s contribution to the Australian economy and to ensure banking customers benefit from a stable, competitive and accessible banking industry.

Previous to commencing with the ABA, Simon held the role as ANZ's Head of Asia Pacific Engagement and Chair, South Australia.

With deep experience at the highest levels of government, Simon brings expertise in trade policy, government finance, international relations and regulated environments.

Serving as an Australian Government minister for nearly a decade, Simon was a member of budget and national security cabinet committees and led the government in the Australian Senate.

As Finance Minister Simon oversaw budgets that framed Australia’s Covid recovery and decisions that delivered the AUKUS security partnership. While Trade Minister Simon negotiated numerous free trade agreements, including the world’s largest agreement encompassing 15 Asia Pacific. economies. Simon also led Australia’s responses to diplomatically challenging and globally disruptive trade events.

Simon was a Senator for 18 years, delivered nationally consistent needs-based schools funding as education minister and sustainability measures in the Murray Darling Basin when responsible for Australia’s water policy.

Simon holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Adelaide and is a Director of Asia Society Australia.