Reflections: The Women in Payments Symposium 2024

The Women in Payments Australia Symposium 2024 was the biggest held anywhere in the world since the organisation's inception in 2012. Emily Curlewis reflects on this special event's standout moments.

Passion often starts at home.

For me, the drive to champion diversity—especially for women—was likely sparked by growing up as one of three fiercely independent sisters. Our parents instilled in us the confidence to back ourselves, no matter what. My dad, a tech entrepreneur who later became a CEO of several industry bodies, was a pioneer in advocating for women in tech before it became mainstream. Maybe it was the three of us who inspired him. My mum, too, was a force of nature—evolving from her nursing career to become a CEO and Board Chair for not-for-profits.

While I can’t pinpoint the exact moment that ignited my passion for equity, I know it’s fuelled today by my own children. I want to be the kind of role model for them that my parents were for me.

This is why being part of the Women in Payments community feels so personal. I first crossed paths with Kristy Duncan a decade ago when she launched the inaugural Symposium Down Under during my time at PayPal. Fast-forward ten years, and the impact of Women in Payments on the Australian payments ecosystem is undeniable. The energy, the commitment, and the unwavering support for diversity—it’s a movement that continues to grow.

Over the past couple of years, I’ve had the privilege of serving on the Australian Advisory Board, and this year, I was thrilled to see Zepto take on the role of Platinum Sponsor for the Symposium. This collaboration also gave life to the Zepto Women’s Collective, an initiative close to my heart that focuses on empowering women in tech and payments.

Highlights from the 2024 Women in Payments Australian Symposium

The theme of this year’s event, “Growth Powering Payments,” couldn’t have been more fitting. Held in Sydney across two days, the Symposium was an inspiring mix of connection, collaboration, and thought leadership.

Here are some of the standout moments

1. Marnie Baker’s Keynote
   The former CEO and Managing Director at Bendigo and Adelaide Bank, Marnie's message was powerful: “Self-awareness is the foundation of authenticity.” She reminded us why leading with authenticity and integrity has never been more critical.
2. Executive Panel: Building the Future Payment System
   Moderated by NSW Treasury, this panel brought together thought leaders like Chris Jewell (Zepto), Katrina Stuart (Australian Payments Plus), Lauren Wells (NAB), and Carolyn Young (ANZ). The discussion explored the transition from legacy systems, innovation aligned with security, and the role of inclusivity. It was a masterclass in collaboration and foresight.
3. The Great Debate
   Suzie Slingsby led a lively and insightful debate featuring Dan Martin, Catherine Chan, Anna Fowler, and Colin Sultana. The bursting-at-the-seems room buzzed with passion, humour, and energy as the panelists dissected the pros and cons of various payment methods.
4. Governor Michelle Bullock’s Insights
   Hearing the Reserve Bank of Australia’s Governor speak was a highlight. Her observation that “Payments is a networks business” and the emphasis on the importance of relationships resonated deeply with me. You can catch her talk here.
5. Fintech in the Spotlight
   I was honoured to host the Symposium’s first-ever dedicated Fintech session. With an impressive panel featuring James Cameron, Laura Mineo, Camilla Bullock and Jodie Imam, we explored insights and advice tailored to this dynamic part of the payments ecosystem. In today's environment, where funding is tighter, the panel discussed how fintechs can strike the right balance between scaling and maintaining profitability. The panel discussion was followed by a workshop session where attendees had the chance to share challenges and learnings with each other. It was great to see the collective passion for fintechs in the room and the camaraderie that exists in the industry.

That camaraderie (and competitive spirit) was on full display at the Zepto booth, the centrepiece of which was a challenging payments quiz. Expertise was tested by a sequence of 12 tricky questions. And nerves were tested by a pressure-inducing countdown clock and a leaderboard that updated in real-time as results came in. Super fun and engaging. We thank everyone who entered the friendly fray.

Gratitude and Looking Ahead

A massive congratulations to Kristy Duncan and her team for yet another stellar event. It’s always a privilege to work alongside the incredible members of the Australian Advisory Board.

For me, the Symposium is more than an event—it’s a reminder of the importance of championing diversity, fostering collaboration, and driving meaningful change in the industry.
Check out this video from the Zepto team to see why we’re proud to be part of a company that values inclusion, growth, and purpose.

Here’s to continuing the momentum as we power the future of payments—together.

The author

Emily Curlewis | Head of Marketing & Government Relations28th November 2024