Helen Rowell appointed Chair of ART
Media release - 16 October 2025
Helen Rowell has been appointed the new Chair of Australian Retirement Trust to replace the departing Andrew Fraser.
Andrew Fraser announced his intention to retire as Chair of the ART Board in August following 10 years on the Board of ART and its predecessor fund, Sunsuper.
Mr Fraser said Ms Rowell’s appointment comes as the sector matures and as the fund enters its next chapter, and reflects ART’s commitment to sector-leading, world-class governance.
“At ART, we recognise the vital role superannuation plays in Australia’s financial system, our economy, and in the lives of our members,” Mr Fraser said.
“This understanding is reflected in our commitment to strong corporate governance.
“Helen’s depth of experience and leadership capacity will be vital assets as the fund implements its 2030 Strategy under the leadership of our CEO, Kathy Vincent.
“Together they represent a formidable leadership duo, who will lead ART into continued and greater success on behalf of the 2.4 million Australians who trust us with their retirement savings.”
Ms Rowell said the Fund’s strong commitment to high standards of governance positions it well, as a growing cohort of Australians prepare to transition to retirement.
“Australian Retirement Trust has a clear understanding of the responsibility it carries as the custodian of millions of Australians’ retirement savings,” Ms Rowell said.
“The members of our Board bring a diverse array of skills and perspectives that enable us to put the interests of our members front and centre, and I look forward to the next phase of ART’s development.”
Ms Rowell has been an independent Director of ART since April 2024 and is currently Chair of the Risk Committee.
“Since formation, ART has been determined to build capacity and capability for the future,” Mr Fraser said.
“At the Board and across the management team, we have recruited high-calibre individuals and invested in their leadership.
“We have had many quality people join our ranks, and the smooth transition of internal candidates to the CEO role and to the Board Chair underscores our approach.
“As I prepare to leave ART after this year’s Annual Member Meeting, I have immense confidence in the diligence, enthusiasm and calibre of the Fund’s board and its senior leadership.
"More than anything, I know my fellow directors share a commitment to our members, that guides the Fund's continued delivery for those members.
“Being involved in the establishment and growth of Australian Retirement Trust as an enduring institution of standing, and a force for good in its commitment to our members, has been an honour.”
Ms Rowell’s term as Chair will commence on 21 November 2025.
Ms Rowell previously held senior roles with the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority for over 20 years, including 10 years as an Executive Board Member and Deputy Chair.
Ms Rowell oversaw the superannuation sector until mid-2021 before assuming responsibility for supervision of the insurance sector.
Ms Rowell is a Director of Mental Health Australia and Deputy Chair of the State Insurance Regulatory Authority in New South Wales.
The Australian Retirement Trust Annual Member Meeting will be held on 20 November 2025.
Media contact: Geoff Breusch 0497 302 333
About Australian Retirement Trust
Australian Retirement Trust is one of Australia’s largest super funds. As at 1 July 2025, over 2.4 million Australians trust us to take care of over $350 billion of their retirement savings. We’re here to help our members retire well with confidence, focused on strong long-term investment returns, low fees and the information and access to advice our members need to manage their super and retirement.