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The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has announced the appointment of Geoff Browne as its inaugural lead ombudsman for small business.
Browne “has played an important role in improving dispute-resolution outcomes for small businesses for many years and brings firsthand knowledge of the challenges facing small businesses,” said David Locke, AFCA chief executive and chief ombudsman. “As AFCA’s dedicated small business lead ombudsman, Geoff will ensure that we place the needs of small businesses front and centre in all our work.”
Browne has held a number of high-profile senior roles supporting the small business sector. He was the Victorian small business commissioner from 2011 to 2016, and before that, was deputy director at Consumer Affairs Victoria. He also brings senior-management experience to his new role, working in telecommunications, finance, and e-commerce. He has also run his own small business.
Browne “is very knowledgeable about the banking sector and highly respected by the small business sector. Geoff is perfect for this job,” said Kate Carnell, Australian small business and family enterprise ombudsman.
