The former Queensland Labor premier Anna Bligh has been named the new chief executive of the Australian Bankers’ Assocation.
Bligh immediately put herself at odds with federal opposition leader Bill Shorten, who has repeatedly called for a royal commission into the banking industry.
“Personally, I’ve always believed you get more done inside the tent and that’s why I’m excited about the opportunity to lead and shape a very compelling package of change and reforms,” Bligh told ABC radio on Friday.
She said the federal government had already responded to the public’s demand for a better and more trustworthy banking system.
“I think it’s clear the government has heard those calls and that’s why they’ve established a number of enquiries that are currently under way,” she said.
Bligh, 56, who will become the group’s first female chief executive on 3 April, said banks played a central role in the economy and the lives of individuals.
“Our banks are critical to the strength and stability of our national economy and the prosperity and wellbeing of every Australian,” Bligh said. “We all rely on our bank for the most important financial decisions of our lives so we want a system that is open, fair and trustworthy.”
The ABA cited Bligh’s leadership and community service when it announced her appointment on Friday.
“She is highly regarded and respected by community, political and business leaders and understands the need for all stakeholders to work together to deliver the best outcome for customers,” said its chairman, Andrew Thorburn.
Bligh, 56, was Australia’s first popularly elected female premier but retired from politics in 2012 when she led Labor to the worst defeat of a sitting government in Queensland’s history.
For the past three years she has worked with vulnerable and financially disadvantaged Australians as the chief executive of YWCA New South Wales. She has also served on the board of Medibank Private.
Bligh was appointed a companion in the Order of Australia in January for her service to the Queensland parliament, contribution to education reform and advocacy of women’s roles in public life.
