Advisory Board
The Advisory Board of IFIA brings together some of the most accomplished and respected leaders in Islamic finance and ethical investments in Australia. With decades of senior executive experience and deep sectoral knowledge, our Advisors play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic vision and driving forward the growth of Islamic finance across the country. Their insights, influence, and leadership not only elevate the association's work but also champion broader financial inclusion, innovation, and integrity in the Australian financial landscape. Their contribution is instrumental in positioning Islamic finance as a vibrant and valuable part of Australia’s financial future — for all Australians.
Advisory Board
Professor Dr. John Hewson AM
Chairman
Dr John Hewson is a renowned economist and former politician who served as Leader of the Liberal Party and Leader of the Opposition from 1990 to 1994. After politics, he transitioned into a successful career in investment banking, heading The John Hewson Group and chairing multiple organisations. John also holds prominent roles in financial advisory and public affairs, offering a unique blend of political and economic insights.
With prior appointments at the International Monetary Fund, Reserve Bank of Australia, and the University of New South Wales, Dr Hewson has a distinguished academic and professional background. He was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2001 for his services to business, economics, and the community. A dedicated advocate for sustainability, he remains an influential voice on environmental and economic issues.
Mr Mohamad Kammoun
Mohamad is a Founding Partner at LawBridge: a practising solicitor with extensive knowledge in corporate, commercial, administrative, charity and intellectual property matters. He has over 15 years of consulting experience in Islamic banking and finance.
Mohamad specialises in commercial/corporate transactions, business structures, business start-up, partnerships, joint ventures, trusts and asset protection, providing legal advice to entrepreneurs and corporations.
For the past decade, Mohamad has served as the CEO of a prominent charitable organisation, making him one of the most sought-after consultants in the not-for-profit sector, particularly regarding ACNC compliance. He has also supported not-for-profit clients for over five years in local and overseas operations, places of worship, sporting clubs, aged care providers, foundations, and educational organisations.
Additionally, he holds the position of Legal Advisor to several high-profile multinational companies and serves as a Special Counsel for several Islamic Finance funders in Australia.
A hallmark of Mohamad’s diversity of experience and wisdom to his legal practice is his excellent technical knowledge and pragmatism. He is also known for his profound negotiation skills and ability to finalise matters while avoiding lengthy and expensive court proceedings, carving approaches with rigorous planning and execution.
Mufti Shabir Moosa
Mufti Shabir Moosa is a multi-disciplinary shari’ah scholar, Islamic Finance Adviser and Consultant with over 25 years of experience in teaching and researching Islamic law, commerce, and economics. In addition to several traditional qualifications, he holds prestigious credentials in Islamic finance, including a CSAA from AAOIFI, an ACIFE, and an eMIF - Masters Degree from INCEIF University with a final research dissertation on " A Shariah Analysis of Gold and Silver Backed Stable Coins." He is also the Founder and Director of CIEA - Centre for Islamic Economics Australia. Shabir's research interests include blockchain applications in Islamic social finance, digital zakat, FinTech innovations and financial ethics. He has a passion for leveraging emerging technologies to address contemporary socio-economic challenges whilst remaining grounded in Islamic ethical principles. His unique approach bridges traditional Islamic scholarship with modern technological solutions and through ongoing research, training programmes and consultancy projects, he continues contributing to institutions across Australia and globally.