Reverend Tim Costello has been appointed as the new patron of the SMSF Association, succeeding former High Court chief justice Sir Anthony Mason, who has filled the role since February 2007.
Costello will take up his position with the industry body on 6 September.
He moves into the role having spent 13 years up to October 2016 as chief executive of World Vision Australia, addressing issues such as global poverty. He remains chief advocate of the organisation.
Costello is also chair of the Community Council of Australia and has been involved with the Australian National Development Index, Concern Australia Advisory Group and the Campaign for Australian Aid, and is a member of the multi-stakeholder steering committee of the EU-Australia Leadership Forum.
Other social issues, such as problem gambling, urban poverty, homelessness, reconciliation and substance abuse, have seen Costello’s involvement through his capacity as Baptist minister at St Kilda Baptist and Collins Street Baptist churches in Melbourne, and executive director of Urban Seed.
Commenting on the appointment, SMSF Association chair Andrew Gale said: “Tim is the ideal person to step into the very big shoes of Sir Anthony and fill this important position. He is one of Australia’s best-known community leaders and a sought after voice on social justice issues, leadership and ethics.
“We are certain the association will benefit greatly from having someone of Tim’s integrity, values, and life experiences as the patron of our association.”
Gale also took the opportunity to thank outgoing patron Mason for his contribution to the professional body and the wider SMSF sector.
“As one of this country’s foremost legal minds, Sir Anthony brought enormous gravitas to the association. He was always generous with his time and advice, and for that contribution we are indebted,” he said.
“In particular, his annual addresses to the national conference were well considered, thought provoking and informative, and I know from speaking to members they were always well received.”
Costello described his appointment to the position of SMSF Association patron as an honour and a privilege.
“I am pleased to take up this role in an organisation that believes in the right to a good quality of life in retirement for every Australian,” he said.
“The SMSF Association is committed to helping Australians take greater control of their own destiny.”
