‘Roadmap towards reconciliation’ launched through bank’s RAP

Great Southern Bank has launched its Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), the bank’s roadmap for its reconciliation journey with First Nations peoples.

“Our RAP is the beginning of a longer-term commitment,” said Paul Lewis, CEO of Great Southern Bank.

“This RAP and future RAPs will help deliver on our purpose of helping all Australians own their own home by working in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to address socioeconomic inequality.

“It will also focus on increasing our team members’ awareness, understanding of and connection to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their unique cultures and languages, and help shift perceptions and attitudes that may be barriers to us playing an effective role in reconciliation.”

The RAP builds on the bank’s history of working with First Nations peoples to grow financial wellbeing over many years, including its merger 15 years ago with First Nations Credit Union and subsequent establishment of the First Nations Foundation.

Also speaking at the launch event was Lee Prouse, National Manager for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Strategy and Impact at the Australian Red Cross, a community partner of Great Southern Bank.

The event culminated with Narelle Urquhart, First Nations cultural advocate and artist, unveiling a commissioned artwork which tells the story of Great Southern Bank’s business and commitment to reconciliation.

The launch of Great Southern Bank’s RAP comes just days after the organisation was recognised by the Diversity Council of Australia as an Inclusive Employer for 2021-2022.

You can read more about the RAP and the bank’s sustainability work on in its website.

About Great Southern Bank

For over 75 years, we’ve been putting our customers first, and today we look after the financial and insurance needs of more than 375,000 Australians. We have changed our name from CUA to Great Southern Bank but we remain customer owned and firmly focused on helping all Australians own their own homes.

Media contact:

Leo Seaton
Senior Manager, External Communications
Mobile: 0447 463 97
Email: leo.seaton@gsb.com.au