Former Liberal Senator Simon Birmingham wins top banking job replacing Anna Bligh

After 17 years in parliament, one of SA’s most senior federal Liberal leaders has revealed he’s taken up a top national role. Find out what it is.

Senator Simon Birmingham gives his valedictory speech in the Senate at Parliament House in Canberra during November last year. Picture: NewsWire / Martin Ollman

One of South Australia’s most senior Liberal leaders – who quit politics earlier this year and delivered a harsh critique of his party’s federal election performance – is taking on a high-profile job in the banking sector.

Former Liberal Finance Minister and moderate Senator Simon Birmingham starts as chief executive officer of the Australian Banking Association (ABA) in August.

ABA Chair and National Australia Bank CEO Andrew Irvine today announced Mr Birmingham would replace Anna Bligh who is retiring.

“We are delighted to have Simon lead our industry and help ensure Australian banks continue making the right decisions for customers and the broader economy,” Mr Irvine said.

Former Liberal senator Simon Birmingham starts as CEO of the Australian Banking Association in August. Picture: NewsWire/Martin Ollman

Former Queensland Premier Anna Bligh is the outgoing CEO of the Australian Banking Association. Picture: NewsWire/John Gass

“He is a recognised leader who has had deep involvement in significant and long-lasting policy decisions and actions throughout his career that have helped to shape our country.”

Mr Birmingham was a Liberal Senator for South Australia from 2007 to 2025 and was Shadow Foreign Affairs spokesman from 2022.

After the Liberal Party’s drubbing at the recent federal election he claimed failures at the previous election had “not be learned and acted upon”.

“The broad church model of a party that successfully melds liberal and conservative thinking is clearly broken,” he said in a heartfelt post on LinkedIn.

“The Liberal Party is not seen as remotely liberal and the brand of conservatism projected is clearly perceived as too harsh and out of touch.”

Mr Birmingham, (right) with state Liberal opposition leader Vincent Tarzia, and recently elected federal MP for Grey Tom Venning (centre). Picture: X

Mr Birmingham previously worked with the Winemakers’ Federation of Australia, the Australian Hotels and is currently ANZ’s head of Asia Pacific Engagement and chairman, South Australia.

“As the ABA CEO I will always put trust in Australia’s banking system first, pursue a competitive regulatory environment, and work to ensure innovation in banking strengthens Australia’s financial interests,” Mr Birmingham said.

“Banks are central to our economy, essential to businesses of all sizes and entrusted by Australians with their personal financial wellbeing.

“From trade and capital flows from large and international banks, to the choice offered by smaller banks, regional banks and customer-owned organisations, a strong, healthy, customer-focused financial services sector is vital for all Australians.”

Mr Birmingham starts in the role on August 18, Ms Bligh, who announced in February that she would retire after eight years as ABA CEO, finishes on August 22.

Originally published as Former Liberal Senator Simon Birmingham wins top banking job replacing Anna Bligh