CITIBANK MD LES MATHESON ELECTED AS AUSTRALIAN BANKERS' ASSOCIATION’S NEW DEPUTY CHAIRMAN Sydney, 29 August, 2003:  The Council of the Australian Bankers’ Association (ABA) has elected Mr Les Matheson, Citibank Consumer Bank Managing Director, as the new Deputy ABA Chairman. Mr Matheson succeeds Mrs Gail Kelly, Chief Executive Officer of St George Bank Limited, who has successfully completed her two-year term. Upon his election as ABA Deputy Chairman, Mr Matheson said he was pleased to have the opportunity of working on the industry body. “As the Australian CEO of a global bank, I look forward to providing my perspective on the many issues in regulatory affairs that affect the Australian financial services sector. At a time when there is global uncertainty on financial markets, the Australian banking sector is safe, secure, well managed and tightly regulated,” Mr Matheson said.   “With experience in Europe, Latin America, Japan and Asia, I have been impressed with the highly sophisticated financial services industry in Australia. I look forward to helping to further develop the industry’s focus on improving customer service and delivering excellent value.” Citibank renewed its membership of the ABA in September last year, after an absence of almost three years. Citibank took this decision at a time when it was increasing its presence in the Australian marketplace and after a review of the ABA’s management and performance. ABA Chairman and ANZ CEO, John McFarlane, said: “I thank Mrs Kelly for her contribution and I am looking forward to working with Mr Matheson.” “It is important the banking industry has a strong industry body which works in the interests of its members and the community. The ABA’s 23-strong membership reflects good coverage of the sector and it was an important milestone when Citibank rejoined the ABA in 2002.” Mrs Kelly congratulated Mr Matheson on his election and thanked the industry for their efforts in supporting positive change. For further information: Heather Wellard ABA Public Relations                          Phone: 02 8298 0411                                                         Mobile: 0409 830 439 Judy Hitchen, Citibank Phone: 02 8225 1643 ENDS