The Minister for Financial Services, Superannuation and Corporate Law, Chris Bowen MP today announced the appointment of Mr Rod Smith as the full-time Deputy Chairperson of the Superannuation Complaints Tribunal (Tribunal) for a five-year period.
"Mr Smith's appointment will enhance the Tribunal's reputation as a robust and effective organisation for the resolution of superannuation disputes," Minister Bowen said.
"I am very pleased that Mr Smith is joining the Tribunal during this significant time for Australia's superannuation industry."
Mr Rod Smith has over 40 years experience as a lawyer and is an accredited specialist in mediation. He has held senior roles in the superannuation industry, including most recently as the Deputy Chairman of Legalsuper and the Chairman of its Investment Committee.
Previously, Mr Smith was a Board Member of Legalsuper's predecessor funds, the Victorian Solicitor's Superannuation Pty Ltd and the Legal Industry Superannuation Scheme. In addition, Mr Smith was a Credit Ombudsman under the Victorian Credit Ombudsman Scheme and has served as President of the Law Institute of Victoria.
The Tribunal, established by the Superannuation (Resolution of Complaints) Act 1993, provides a fast, low-cost and informal alternative to the courts for the resolution of certain superannuation complaints.
The Deputy Chairperson is the Tribunal's assistant executive officer and is responsible for assisting the Chairperson in the Tribunal's overall operation and administration.
Further information on the Tribunal is available at www.sct.gov.au.
20 October 2009