The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has appointed a Lead Ombudsman for Small Business.

Geoff Browne will be responsible for ensuring an “informed and consistent approach” to small business disputes and will work with the AFCA Insurance Ombudsman where required.

He was previously deputy director at Consumer Affairs Victoria, and was the Victorian small business commissioner from 2011-16.

“AFCA recognises the importance of small businesses and the final report from the Hayne royal commission clearly demonstrates how devastating it can be when they have financial disputes that are not fairly resolved,” AFCA CEO David Locke said.