Thanks and congratulations to Ian Silk for his 15 years of steady and dependable leadership of AustralianSuper. 
 
As he departs as CEO, he leaves an unrivalled legacy. 
 
Ian Silk oversaw a major merger, doubled membership and saw a tenfold increase in funds from $21bn to $221bn. 
 
Most importantly, under his leadership AustralianSuper has delivered an average 9.73% return over the last decade for members, beating even the housing market. 
 
Beyond the impressive numbers, the industry as a whole has come to depend on Ian’s deep knowledge base and calm advocacy. 
 
As a former industrial officer and financial education advocate, he never wavered in his commitment to ensure working families get a dignified retirement. 
 
He is widely regarded in Parliament, government and in the industry as an honest and reliable source of advice and an able advocate. 
 
I wish him well for the next chapter of his life and hope he is able to spend more time indulging his love of basketball. 
 
Labor also welcomes the appointment Paul Schroder as the incoming CEO. 
 
Paul has long worked alongside Ian, and members can be assured he will continue to put their interests above all. 
 
As a former National Secretary of the Financial Services Union, I have confidence Paul will continue to deliver for members and advocate for the strong role of superannuation in our economy. 
 
 
Quotes attributable to Stephen Jones, Shadow Minister for Superannuation: 
 
“Ian Silk is one of a kind. 
 
“The man with the mo has always been a go-to source of sound advice. 
 
“His encyclopaedic knowledge of the super industry, gained through an up-close-and-personal view of decades of policy change, is legendary. 
 
“But he is more than that. 
 
“His integrity is respected across the political divide and as are his powers as an advocate for the critical role of super in our economy.”