FBAA strengthens regulatory advocacy with new appointment

Industry body also forms new group to enhance broker representation with regulators and government

FBAA strengthens regulatory advocacy with new appointment

The Finance Brokers Association of Australia (FBAA) has named David Carson (pictured), a financial services specialist and former executive at the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), as a member of its newly established regulatory engagement group.

This move aims to bolster the association’s engagement with government bodies, regulators, consumers, and other industry participants.

The appointment also builds on his decade-long association with the FBAA. With a background in credit and financial services, Carson said he welcomed the chance to contribute his regulatory and compliance experience to the association’s advocacy work.

“This is an excellent opportunity to work more closely with my good friends at the FBAA, building on the already strong relationships the association has forged with government, regulators and other stakeholders,” he said.

“We all benefit when new laws and regulatory requirements are developed off the back of informed discussion and where the interests and full impacts on affected sectors are thoroughly understood.”

Carson is a qualified lawyer with experience in stockbroking and financial planning, and previously worked in ASIC’s financial services enforcement division. He has also been involved in treasury working groups for Future of Financial Advice (FOFA) and Phase 2 credit reforms.

Peter White, FBAA managing director, said Carson’s background made him well-suited for the position.

“David will be working closely with me and our leadership team on submissions to all governments – federal, state and territories, and into New Zealand - helping to ensure the FBAA continues to advance the interests of brokers and consumers,” said White, who will continue to lead direct advocacy and maintain relationships with regulatory authorities and senior government officials.

“This team is a ‘force to be reckoned with’ like no other, and will not only deepen our footprint and engagement with regulators and ministerial office staff, but deliver stronger proactive member and industry awareness to what we do in this space.”

The regulatory engagement group will also draw on expertise in media, marketing, and legal matters. According to White, the FBAA aims to use its broad membership to increase its influence in policy discussions and regulatory processes.

The announcement comes as the FBAA reports a significant rise in membership, with numbers reaching 13,298 by June 30 and surpassing 13,400 at the start of this month. The association welcomed 2,174 new members over the past year, achieving notable net growth despite retirements and departures from the sector.

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