Harry Godber has joined the association’s board, after leading fintech and financial regulatory initiatives under minister Jane Hume. He played a role in the launch of Australia’s consumer data right, superannuation reform and the introduction of new payment regulation.
Mr Godber will be advising and assisting FinTech Australia on government relations and new policy initiatives from the peak body.
Rebecca Schot-Guppy, chief executive of FinTech Australia called the recruitment a “huge feather” in the body’s cap.
“This appointment will build on our existing relationship with policy makers,” she said.
“Harry has accomplished a staggering amount in his years in government, and we look forward to working with him and drawing from both his enthusiasm for the growth of the sector and his deep expertise.”
Previously, Mr Godber also led the establishment of the Australian Space Agency as an industry, innovation and science adviser to ministers Arthur Sinodinos and Michaelia Cash.
He currently is head of strategy at Flare, a fintech focused on superannuation, banking and HR services.
In a separate role, Mr Godber also led product and strategy at Data61, a data firm.
His appointment with FinTech Australia has come as the body is preparing to launch its annual fintech conference, Intersekt, in Melbourne next week.
“FinTech Australia has been instrumental in helping shape many of the world-leading policies that are governing our fintech sector,” Mr Godber added.
“I look forward to sharing my passion and experience with the Fintech Australia team to champion our ecosystem’s ingenuity and diversity. With the right policy and regulatory settings in place, fintech is poised to lead Australian consumers and business through our economic recovery.”