Media Releases

We engage with the media to champion the customer owned banking model and advocate for a more competitive retail banking sector that benefits all Australians.

Still with your parents’ bank? Customer-owned banks urge Aussies to find a bank that fits them today

A recent survey of over 1,000 Australians reveals parents have the biggest influence on banking choices, with more than half (53%) choosing their primary bank due to parental guidance. This means Aussies risk missing out on benefits like competitive rates, superior customer service, and values-aligned institutions. The survey[1], commissioned by the Customer Owned Banking Association … Read more

Financial crime experts: 40% of Australians make email mistake scammers exploit

A new survey of more than 1,000 Australians reveals 40%[1] have emailed photos of their passports, driver’s licences or ID cards through their personal email accounts – significantly increasing their risk of falling victim to scammers. Alarmingly, 56% of those who have emailed identification information, admitted they didn’t delete the email after sending it, and … Read more

Customer-owned banks most trusted banking sector amidst higher level of bank distrust

Customer-owned banks have once again been named Australia’s most trusted banking sector, according to the latest Roy Morgan Bank Trust and Distrust Scores Report. The report, based on Roy Morgan’s ongoing Risk Monitor surveying approximately 25,000 Australians[1] each year, marks customer-owned banking’s second consecutive recognition as most trusted banking sector and shows a further improvement … Read more

Customer-owned banks stand ready to support floods-impacted customers

As NSW communities grabble amidst record floods, customer-owned banks are ready to provide support. “We understand this is an incredibly stressful time, but customer-owned banks stand with their customers and communities, ready to assist where needed,” Customer Owned Banking Association (COBA) CEO Michael Lawrence said. “If you’re experiencing financial hardship, please reach out to your … Read more

Customer-owned banks congratulate new Ministers, call for banking sector reforms

The Customer Owned Banking Association (COBA) has welcomed the Government’s ministerial appointments. “We congratulate Dr Jim Chalmers MP on his reappointment as Treasurer, Dr Daniel Mulino MP on his appointment as Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services, and Clare O’Neil MP on her reappointment as Minister for Housing. We look forward to working with … Read more

Scam alert: Scammers likely to target Australians in the wake of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred

Windsor, Australia March 22, 2021; SES Tape Across A Flooded Road In Windsor

The Customer Owned Banking Association warns Australians to be on the alert for scammers targeting people impacted by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred and those looking to help through donations. “In the chaos following severe weather events and natural disasters, it is important to be vigilant as scammers prey on people’s desperation and goodwill,” said COBA Head … Read more