ANZAC Day is a time for Australians and New Zealanders to pause and reflect on the service and sacrifices made by those who served in war and combat. It’s an opportunity to remember, respect, and honour the bravery and commitment of our Defence personnel.
Two customer-owned banks, Defence Bank and Australian Military Bank recognise and support the Defence community not only on ANZAC Day but throughout the entire year. With deep roots in the Defence sector, these banks go beyond traditional banking to offer tailored support that meets the unique needs of those who serve and their families.
Defence Bank celebrates 50 years of service to the ADF
In 2025, Defence Bank marks 50 years of serving the Australian Defence Force (ADF) community. Originally established in 1975 as Defence Force Credit Union Limited, the organisation has grown into a leading customer-owned bank, proudly supporting ADF members and their families.
“We have a team who understands the needs of our members better than anyone. Because 40% of our staff have a direct connection to the ADF, it makes our member service even more tailored, personal and unique,” Defence Bank’s CEO Roberto Scenna said.
“Through our partnerships including the Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme, we have seen record numbers move into home ownership. We provide virtual lending appointments and have an award-winning digital app, which means banking is at our members’ fingertips wherever they are in the world, including on deployment. Also, we have the largest ADF focused branch network and are always supportive of face-to-face interaction,” he explained.
Defence Bank offers specialised products like the Salute Account, which rewards ADF milestones such as deployments and years of service with bonus interest on savings.
“We also understand the unique relationship we have with our Veterans. We serve those who protect us, and this extends well beyond ADF duty. As one way of supporting Veterans, our Defence Bank Foundation supports Veterans in need and fosters better mental health through the Defence Community Dogs program,” Roberto added.
Now serving over 78,000 members, Defence Bank remains committed to continuous improvement and innovation to meet the evolving needs of the ADF community.
“Whether for a car, a credit card, or a dream home, there’s a better way to lend to our community, recognising their circumstances and aspirations. Through patient but consistent continuous improvement and investment, we want to be the bank of the ADF and wider defence community,” Roberto explained.
To learn more about Defence Bank’s services, and its impressive 50-year service, visit its website: https://www.defencebank.com.au/
Australian Military Bank commitment to strengthening the defence community
Celebrating 65 years of service in 2024, Australian Military Bank is the longest-serving financial institution dedicated specifically to the Defence community. Originally founded in 1959 as the Navy (Civil Staff) Co-op, the customer-owned bank soon after expanded to serve both Army and Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) personnel.
“Supporting the Defence community strengthens the networks our members rely on and honours our veterans who have done so much for us as a country,” said Australian Military Bank’s CEO, Darlene Mattiske-Wood.
The bank operates 18 branches located on Defence bases across Australia, ensuring easy access to services for personnel wherever their careers take them. Staff are actively engaged in base life and the wider Defence community, helping them deliver relevant, personalised service.
Australian Military Bank also offers the Military Rewards Account, which helps support Defence charities. The account rounds up spare change from transactions and donates it, with the bank matching contributions dollar-for-dollar to one of four Defence charity partners.
Since the launch of this initiative, over $395,000 has been donated to organisations supporting serving, injured, and ex-service members.
The customer-owned bank also contributes to a range of community programs. One such initiative is support for Legacy’s annual ANZAC Rosemary Appeal, where staff help prepare and distribute rosemary sprigs to raise funds for families of veterans. This hands-on initiative reflects the organisation’s deep-rooted culture of care and ongoing commitment to the Defence community.
In addition, Australian Military Bank staff take part in Soldier On’s March On fundraiser each year, walking or running 96km in March to raise funds for veterans’ mental health services.
The March On 2025 campaign recently concluded with the Australian Military Bank team breaking its previous March On fundraising record to raise $5,402 for its charity partner. The team collectively covered an impressive 2,232kms during the month – an amazing 437 hours of marching.
Funds raised go towards providing vital services such as counselling, social support, and employment programs for veterans.
Australian Military Bank’s commitment to the Defence community remains unwavering. With tailored banking products, nationwide support, and a deep understanding of ADF life, the bank continues to honour and uplift those who serve.
Learn more about Australian Military Bank’s services and deep commitment to the Defence community, visit its website: https://australianmilitarybank.com.au/