Morrison tests banks with Open Banking regime
The Federal Government has moved to further test its relationship with the major banks, with the Treasurer, Scott Morrison opening the door on giving consumers greater access to their own banking data and therefore making decisions about switching banks or bank products.
The Treasurer said the initiative was part of the Government’s agenda to introduce an Open Banking regime with the review being led by a partner in legal firm, King & Wood Mallesons, Scott Farrell supported by a secretariat within the Treasury which would be drawing upon the expertise of the private sector as required.
Morrison said the review would consult broadly with the banking, consumer advocacy and financial technology sectors and other interested parties in developing its report and recommendations.
“Open Banking is about giving Australians greater access to their own banking data and has the potential to transform the way in which Australians interact with the banking system,” he said.
“Greater consumer access to their own banking data and data on banking products will allow consumers to seek out products that better suit their circumstances, saving them money and allowing them to better achieve their financial goals. It will also create further opportunities for innovative business models to drive greater competition in banking and contribute to productivity growth.”
Farrell is expected to report his findings by the end of the year.
Recommended for you
The top five licensees are demonstrating a “strong recovery” from losses in the first half of the year, and the gap is narrowing between their respective adviser numbers.
With many advisers preparing to retire or sell up, business advisory firm Business Health believes advisers need to take a proactive approach to informing their clients of succession plans.
Retirement commentators have flagged that almost a third of Australians over 50 are unprepared for the longevity of retirement and are falling behind APAC peers in their preparations and advice engagement.
As private markets continue to garner investor interest, Netwealth’s series of private market reports have revealed how much advisers and wealth managers are allocating, as well as a growing attraction to evergreen funds.

