Australian Unity Divests to Sharpen Focus on Core Services

2

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

The transition involves transferring its banking customers and the full scope of its banking operations to Bank Australia, a mutual banking group known for its ethical and sustainable banking principles. The deal will encompass transferring approximately 25,000 customers, including a diversified loan portfolio valued at $1.4 billion and deposits also valued at $1.6 billion.

Throughout the transition period, Australian Unity assures no immediate impacts on its current customers, staff, or suppliers, emphasizing the effort to make the handover seamless and efficient within the year.

Increasing competition among traditional and digital financial institutions played a significant role in Australian Unity's decision to divest. The significant resource demands, especially in adopting state-of-the-art digital banking technologies, influenced this strategic pivot.

Reflecting on the merger, Australian Unity remarked, “Bank Australia can provide Australian Unity Bank customers a strengthened banking experience.” The synergy in values between the two entities also supports the transition, with a shared dedication to creating meaningful impacts in the community.

Australian Unity commenced its banking foray by acquiring Big Sky Credit Union in 2012. This recent sale enables it to concentrate resources and investments on developing increased value in healthcare, insurance, and wealth management, areas accounting for much of its customer base and member support. The company serves a staggering 700,000 customers, extending far beyond its banking segment.

Importantly, Rohan Mead, Australian Unity's Group Managing Director, emphasized how this transition allows customers to benefit from Bank Australia's robust service network and digital platforms, securing a stable and sustainable banking experience for the future.

Bank Australia, a B-Corp certified and environmentally conscious bank, is strategically positioned to take on Australian Unity's banking operations. Having reported $9.3 billion in loans, $8.4 billion in deposits, and net assets reaching $11.7 billion in its 2024 Annual Report, the bank's operational scale promises continued growth and innovation for new customers joining its ranks.

The original announcement was detailed by Patrick Buncsi for the Funds Management section at an industry event, underscoring the evolving dynamics within the financial sector that drive such strategic decisions when traditional banks face mounting pressures to adapt to a changing financial landscape.

This shift represents a notable milestone for Australian Unity, bolstering its commitment toward being a leader in health, insurance, and wealth management, free from the intensive demands faced in today’s ultra-competitive banking industry.

Published:Friday, 8th Nov 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Finance News

Clear

Isuzu Australia Introduces Dedicated Financial Services for Truck Buyers

23 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

In a strategic move to bolster its customer support offerings, Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) has announced the establishment of Isuzu Financial Services Australia (IFSA). This initiative marks the first time the Isuzu Group has founded a leasing company outside Japan, reflecting a significant commitment to the Australian market. - read more

Geely's Farizon Electric Trucks Make Australian Debut

23 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Chinese automotive giant Geely Auto has announced its entry into the Australian light commercial vehicle market through its Farizon brand, specialising in electric commercial vehicles. This move signifies a notable expansion of electric vehicle (EV) offerings in Australia's commercial sector. - read more

CEFC and Volvo Group Collaborate to Accelerate Electric Truck Adoption in Australia

23 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

The Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) has partnered with Volvo Group to introduce a $70 million financing package aimed at accelerating the adoption of heavy-duty battery electric trucks (HD BEVs) in Australia. This initiative seeks to address the substantial transport-related emissions by facilitating the transition to cleaner vehicle technologies. - read more

Australian Truck Sales Experience Decline as Market Stabilises in 2025

15 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian truck and van market has experienced a notable decline in 2025, with sales figures indicating an 11.8% decrease compared to the previous year. According to the Truck Industry Council (TIC), a total of 33,727 heavy vehicles were sold by the end of September, marking a significant drop from the 38,254 units sold during the same period in 2024. - read more

Scania's First Battery Electric Truck Joins Total Logistics Solutions Fleet

15 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

In a landmark move towards sustainable transportation, Scania has delivered its first battery electric truck to Total Logistics Solutions (TLS), a prominent Australian logistics provider. The Scania 25 P, a 10-pallet curtainsider equipped with a powered tailgate, is set to revolutionise urban deliveries by eliminating tailpipe emissions. - read more

Click for more Finance News