Professor Ian Harper

Professor Ian Harper is an esteemed Australian economist renowned for his work across academia, government, and business. With a distinguished career spanning decades, Ian has shaped Australia's financial system, public policy, and competition laws. His ability to bridge the gap between complex economic theory and practical, real-world application has made him a trusted advisor to senior government officials, corporate leaders, and top-tier professional services firms.

Most recently, Ian served as the Dean of Melbourne Business School and Co-Dean of the Faculty of Business and Economics at The University of Melbourne until his retirement in November 2023, when he became Professor Emeritus. His leadership in these roles, coupled with his extensive academic background, has made him a key figure in shaping Australia's economic landscape.

Ian's influence extends beyond academia. In July 2016, he was appointed to the Board of the Reserve Bank of Australia, with his term extended in 2021. From 2011 to 2016, he was a Partner at Deloitte Access Economics, and from 2014 to 2015, he chaired the Australian Government's landmark Competition Policy Review, which fundamentally re-examined the nation's competition policy, laws, and institutions.

As a respected public speaker and commentator, Ian frequently shares his insights on economic and financial issues, drawing on his extensive experience to offer a nuanced perspective on complex challenges. His books, ‘Economics for Life’ (2011), which won the Australian Christian Book of the Year Award, and ‘Confessions of a Meddlesome Economist’ (2019), further reflect his deep engagement with economics and his passion for making the subject accessible to a wide audience.

In recognition of his extraordinary contributions to education and public policy, Ian was appointed an Officer in the Order of Australia in 2020. His career reflects a unique ability to communicate across sectors often divided in their perspectives, positioning him as one of Australia's leading economic thought leaders.

Currently, Ian continues to explore the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on Australia's economy, offering expert analysis on the evolving challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.