For more than 150 years, customer owned banks have served local communities with a 'people helping people' philosophy. Explore stories about the difference our members are making.
Built to serve customers rather than shareholders, customer-owned banks continually demonstrate how banking can make a lasting impact beyond finance. They do so with initiatives backed by purpose, helping build stronger communities, greater sustainability and positive environmental change. One such example is Bank Australia’s 2,117-hectare conservation reserve in western Victoria, an initiative that first began … Read more
Customer-owned banks serve a diverse range of communities by offering tailored solutions that address a wide spectrum of member needs. They recognise the unique circumstances of every individual and the specific community they serve. A primary example of this is Dnister Bank, recently rebranded from Dnister Ukrainian Credit Co-operative. As one of the largest culture-based … Read more
Every year, ANZAC Day is a time to remember, show respect, and honour the courage and dedication of our Defence personnel. It’s a moment to reflect on the service and sacrifices of those who have served in war and combat. With deep connections to Australia’s Defence community, customer-owned bank Defence Bank and Australian Military Bank … Read more
B Corp has grown into a significant global movement, with over 10,300 companies certified worldwide. However, only 60 of these are deposit banks or mutuals. Australian customer-owned banks stand out, representing a disproportionately large share (13%) of the B Corp-certified banks globally. “B Corps are leading the way in using business as a force for … Read more
Customer-owned banks are a force for good in their communities, and many go beyond traditional banking services to champion community well-being. By supporting mental health organisations and community programs, many mutual banks and credit unions help create positive change and cultivate resilience in the regions they serve. This R U OK? Day, we’re highlighting three … Read more
NAIDOC Week is a significant time each year to celebrate and recognise the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. In 2025, NAIDOC Week marks a powerful milestone – 50 years of honouring and amplifying Indigenous voices, resilience, and culture. This year’s theme, The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy reflects … Read more
Traditional Credit Union (TCU) is Australia’s only Indigenous-owned financial institution. TCU serves a unique demographic – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander members living and working in remote communities across the Northern Territory. This year, it celebrates 30 years of service. However, TCU is so much more than a bank – its core mission extends beyond … Read more
As North Queensland communities face the devastating impact of widespread flooding, customer-owned Queensland Country Bank is standing by those affected, offering their members a comprehensive Financial Relief Support Package to help ease the burden and assist with recovery. “Many Queenslanders will experience financial hardship due to flood damage and loss of income, and for some, … Read more
Customer-owned banks are deeply rooted in their communities – not only do they create financial opportunities for their members, but they also enrich the lives of those who live and work in the regions they serve. To amplify their impact, many customer-owned banks have established programs or partnerships that extend their community support far and … Read more
