Then, now, always
Defence Bank is proud to celebrate and participate in the UN International Year of Cooperatives.
In so many ways, Defence Bank retains the co-operative ethos that led to its origins 50 years ago.
Back then a group of like-minded people got together to provide banking services for defence personnel and Veterans. At the end of the Vietnam War, many returned servicemen didn’t have the tailored support they needed to fit their circumstances. They wanted a bank that understood their unique needs as ADF members.
In March 1975, the Defence Forces Credit Union Co-operative (Melbourne) was established at Victoria Barracks in Melbourne. Fifty years on, the Defence Bank team remains honoured to serve those who protect us.
From our humble beginnings at Victoria Barracks in Melbourne to where we are today, our mission has always been the same: to offer a trustworthy banking alternative for our members and their families who serve our country. We’re deeply grateful for their trust and support along the way.
Defence Bank is now one of Australia’s larger member-owned banks serving the Australian Defence Force and the broader community, including staff in Commonwealth Department agencies. We enjoy the support of more than 80,000 members around Australia and have more than $4 billion in assets.
As well as a branch and mobile banking network, including on defence bases, members enjoy a full-service digital offering that includes our award-winning banking app.
In recognition of our ongoing commitment to defence, we established the Defence Bank Foundation, which provides vital support via the Defence Community Dogs program for Veterans and their mental health.
