Australian Banking Association

The Australian Banking Association (ABA) is an association of 22 member banks in Australia. The ABA works with government, regulators and other stakeholders to improve public awareness and understanding of the industry’s contribution to the economy and to ensure Australia’s banking customers continue to benefit from a stable, competitive and accessible banking industry.

ABA member banks have obligations under the Banking Code to take extra care with customers who are experiencing vulnerability, including those experiencing financial abuse. Although financial abuse can impact anyone banks recognise that older people may be at particular risk. The ABA website includes information for customers about how they can help protect themselves from financial abuse, as well as what banks may be able to do to sensitively support customers who are experiencing elder financial abuse.

The ABA is led by Anna Bligh, Chief Executive Officer, who is supported by a team of senior public policy staff. Anna started in the role in April 2017 and is focused on strengthening trust and confidence in banking and delivering better outcomes for customers.

The ABA addresses a large range of public policy issues to help build a regulatory environment that promotes growth in the banking industry and the wider economy. We work to ensure banking is affordable and accessible and enables customers to get the right products and services for their banking needs.

The ABA ensures the banking industry’s views are put forward when governments determine policy or legislation. Many areas of Commonwealth and State law and in some cases international law, impact upon the interests of Australian banks.