2 July 2026
Last week, KPMG Australia launched an Action Plan to address integrity issues, strengthen accountability and rebuild trust. Today, the firm has taken its first major governance step under that plan, announcing Michael Ebeid AM as its Independent Chairman.
Under the Action Plan, KPMG Australia is moving quickly to strengthen independent oversight and accountability by:
- appointing Michael Ebeid AM as the firm’s first Independent Chairman, subject to required partnership agreement changes and partner approval;
- reshaping the KPMG Australia Board with equal independent and partner representation to strengthen challenge, oversight and accountability; and
- adding independent involvement to the CEO appointment process.
Mr Ebeid said: “I have agreed to take on this role because I believe in and respect KPMG. Despite the challenges the firm is facing, my resolve to support its important work is even stronger. I believe KPMG can recover, rebuild and emerge a better firm.
“My mandate is to strengthen independent oversight, make integrity central to everything we do, and drive the cultural and governance reforms needed to build confidence.
“My first priority is to restore the governance and effectiveness of the Board. We will reshape the KPMG Australia Board with equal independent and partner representation.
Mr Ebeid also confirmed the firm is accelerating the CEO appointment process. “We are adding an independent selection panel, and working with external agencies, including Riverstone Associates and Korn Ferry, on executive succession. I expect the Board to confirm the new CEO before the end of July.”
“The new CEO appointment is a critical next step,” Mr Ebeid said.
“KPMG Australia needs leadership with the judgement, courage and integrity to restore confidence and deliver lasting change. The incoming CEO will have a clear mandate to refresh the executive team where required and put in place the leadership needed to deliver sustained change.”
KPMG Australia Action Plan
The full Action Plan sets out further steps to address recent failures and build a stronger, more accountable KPMG Australia. It can be read here.
