SPEAKER BIOGRAPHY
Anna Bligh is a respected Australian leader and former premier of Queensland. Since 2017, she has led the Australian Banking Association through a period of critical reform, delivering on the recommendations of the Royal Commission.
While working to strengthen bank culture and rebuild trust, Anna has also driven the industry’s response to COVID-19. She was instrumental in delivering a united approach by Australia’s banks, ensuring millions of customers were supported through the pandemic.
Anna was the Premier of Queensland from 2007 – 2012. She delivered significant economic reform to the state, including investment in infrastructure, science, innovation and the arts. In 2011, Anna managed the state’s response to a devastating series of natural disasters including cyclones and floods.
After her retirement from politics, Anna was appointed CEO of YWCA, NSW with a mission to build a safer world for women and children.
She was awarded the Companion of the Order of Australia in 2017 for services to the Parliament of Queensland, and as an advocate for education, the role of women in public life and services to the not-for-profit sector.
Anna is a non-executive director of Medibank Private and Playwriting Australia and holds Honorary Doctorates from the University of Queensland and Griffith University.