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Economist Bruce Preston Joins Reserve Bank Board in 2026

2/14/2026

Summary

Preston Appointed RBA

Bruce Preston, an economist and professor at the University of New South Wales, has been appointed by Treasurer Jim Chalmers to Reserve Bank of Australia’s rate-setting board, effective March 1, 2026.
Preston replaces Alison Watkins on the board.
The 2023 review urged technical expertise after academic representation was lacking, making Preston the second academic appointed since then.
Chalmers has an appointment opportunity in August when Ian Harper's term ends.

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Preston Appointed RBA

Bruce Preston, an economist and professor at the University of New South Wales, has been appointed by Treasurer Jim Chalmers to Reserve Bank of Australia’s rate-setting board, effective March 1, 2026.
Preston replaces Alison Watkins on the board.
The 2023 review urged technical expertise after academic representation was lacking, making Preston the second academic appointed since then.
Chalmers has an appointment opportunity in August when Ian Harper's term ends.