Bank conference boosts local economy

HUNDREDS of delegates from across the country gathered last week at Bendigo Bank’s Community Conference to mark 25 years of community banking.

Bendigo Bank CEO and managing director Marnie Baker said its ‘community bank’ model has provided more than $320 million in sponsorships and grants throughout the last quarter century to community groups in areas where the bank operates.

“Over financial year 2023 alone, Community Bank branches have generated a record $32.9 million and funded 6215 local projects,” said Ms Baker.

“There are 309 Community Bank branches delivering banking services right across Australia and we are proud of the social and economic impact our Community Bank model has achieved in each of these communities.

“The history of our organisation goes back 165 years to the goldfields. Our longstanding purpose of feeding into the prosperity of our customers and communities is well known.

“Our customers know we are a bank with heritage and heart.”

It was the bank’s first national conference since 2018, and Bendigo Bank chief economist David Robertson said the number of delegates in attendance would contribute about $2 million to the local economy, through accommodation, food, venue, and equipment hiring costs.

The contingent, board members, and head office staff listened to keynote speakers and shared stories across the three-day conference, said a spokesperson from Bendigo Bank.