FOFA father appointed to SMSFA committee

In a statement, the SMSFA said Bernie Ripoll and Nick Greiner have been appointed to the association’s public policy committee.

Mr Ripoll is the author of the 2009 Ripoll Report, which led to the Future of Financial Advice (FOFA) reforms in place today. Mr Greiner was premier and treasurer of New South Wales from 1988 to 1992, and now serves on several boards.

SMSFA managing director and chief executive Andrea Slattery said the appointments emphasise the body’s commitment to getting the right policy settings for retirement incomes, superannuation and financial services.

“This is the first time the association has looked outside its own membership ranks by asking two prominent Australians boasting strong political and financial credentials to join its public policy committee,” she said.

“We are excited about getting two former politicians of the calibre and reputation of Nick and Bernie, and look forward to getting their input into our vigorous policy debates.

“Since its inception, the association has always played a significant role in the retirement income and superannuation debate, and these appointments are further testimony to the importance we place on policy.”

Mr Ripoll held the House of Representatives seat of Oxley from 1998 to 2016, was the parliamentary secretary for small business and parliamentary secretary to the treasurer.

He also chaired the Corporations and Financial Services Committee, with the inquiry it conducted into the financial services industry playing a key role in the formulation of the FOFA reforms.

Mr Ripoll said, “I am pleased to join the SMSF Association’s Public Policy Committee.

“The association plays a crucial role in advocating for the SMSF sector, especially SMSF professionals, which I experienced first-hand in my time in government.

“I look forward to contributing to its policy work and bringing my experience in superannuation and financial advice to the committee.”