Melbourne the focus for financial studies research

A new centre set to drive financial research in Melbourne was launched by the Minister for Financial Services, Mr André Haermeyer on 18 August.

The Melbourne Centre for Financial Studies will be led by a consortium of universities including Monash University, the University of Melbourne and RMIT University.

Mr Haermeyer said the new centre will enhance Victoria's reputation internationally for innovative financial services and a skilled and educated workforce.

The consortium will drive research in financial studies, including banking and financial services, Australian and Asia/Pacific financial markets, funds management and derivatives and tradeable markets.

The centre will be located at 330 Collins Street, Melbourne - close to high profile financial services organisations.

The consortium representative for Monash and Head of the Department of Accounting and Finance, Professor Jayne Godfrey, said the Department is particularly proud to continue the tradition of linking finance and accounting in high quality research, consulting and training.

“The Centre is part of the Victorian government's plan to showcase Melbourne as a leader in financial research. It will be an outstanding collegial venture with our colleagues at The University of Melbourne and RMIT,” Professor Godfrey said.

“The consortium will open doors for sponsorship and contract research opportunities.”

“We will also work with the government and businesses to shape the research agenda of the centre and ensure Melbourne’s place as the financial centre for the region is firmly established.”

The research activities will be overseen by an advisory board that will include senior representation from the financial services industry.