1 July 2025
The banking industry recognises there are ongoing disparities between the experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other Australians in many areas, and that these disparities can impact economic security and financial inclusion.
The banking industry is working to help address barriers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can experience in accessing banking services by providing access to culturally informed financial capability, with the aim of supporting intergenerational financial resilience.
The Australian Banking Association (ABA) supports Australians having access to banking services. The ABA recognises there can be barriers to some Australians accessing these services, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and particularly those living in remote communities.
The collective efforts of governments, communities, and businesses (including banks) are required to improve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ access to these services.
This statement outlines good practice for how the banking industry can seek to provide inclusive and accessible banking services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, particularly to those living in remote locations.
Latest news
Banks stand ready to support customers in north and north-west Queensland currently experiencing heavy rainfall and flooding. ABA CEO Simon Birmingham said customers didn’t have to tough it out on their own with banks on standby to assist communities get through this challenging time. “Banks recognise the significant financial and emotional toll an extreme weather… Read more »
The ABA acknowledges the release of the 2025-26 Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook. The Government’s forecasted $8.4 billion reduction in the deficit over the forward estimates including a $5.4 billion reduction for year’s deficit is welcome. Lower deficits and claimed savings of $20 billion over the next four years is a beginning towards ensuring our national finances are on a more sustainable footing. While this Budget update contains lower forecasts of spending as a share of GDP, the ABA notes the importance of ongoing spending restraint to help reduce inflationary and interest rate pressures. Banks… Read more »
ANZ CEO Nuno Matos has been appointed as the new Chair of the ABA Council, as banks continue their focus on meeting the needs of customers as well as playing a crucial role in the Australian economy. At the ABA’s Annual General Meeting today in Melbourne, ING CEO Melanie Evans was also reappointed as Deputy… Read more »