Australian Mutual Bank was proud to have launched its Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) at a special celebratory event held on 21 January 2026.
The launch marked an important milestone in our ongoing reconciliation journey and reaffirmed our commitment to strengthening relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, while continuing to build cultural understanding across our organisation.
Our Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) represents the next step in Australian Mutual Bank’s reconciliation journey. It reflects our recognition of the importance of building respectful, ongoing relationships with First Nations communities and reinforces our broader commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. Through this Innovate RAP, we aim to deepen our understanding of reconciliation and drive meaningful change that strengthens relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and with the organisations and communities that that supports them.
Pictured left to right: Deputy Chair of the Board Alex Claassens, Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council Representative Brendan Kerin, and CEO Mark Worthington
The launch brought together Australian Mutual Bank staff, honoured guests and community representatives in a spirit of respect and celebration. We were privileged to be joined by representatives from across the mutual and community sector, including Customer Owned Banking Association (COBA), Public Service Association (PSA), United Services Union (USU), Spirit Group, Teachers Mutual Bank and the Australian Mutuals Foundation - reflecting the shared commitment across our sector to reconciliation, community and inclusion.
The day was opened by Brendan Kerin, Cultural Educator and Advisor with the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council, who welcomed attendees to the land of Gadigal people and performed a yidaki (didgeridoo) during the Welcome to Country – a powerful and grounding moment that set the tone for the day.
Pictured: Brendan Kerin performs on a yidaki (didgeridoo) during the Welcome to Country
We were honoured to welcome representatives from Barnardos Australia and Baabayn Aboriginal Council, who collaborated with us throughout the implementation of our previousReflect RAP. We were also pleased to welcome artist Joanne Cassady, a valued Australian Mutual Bank member of more than 30 years, who painted our bespoke RAP artwork. The artwork was on show at the launch event and stands as a permanent symbol of our commitment, displayed at our Surry Hills head office.
Pictured: Australian Mutual Bank staff having a yarn with guests.
Australian Mutual Bank CEO, Mark Worthington, addressed attendees and highlighted the importance of continued commitment to reconciliation: “We’re proud of what we’ve achieved as an organisation. Reaching the Innovate RAP stage represents the next level in our journey. To deepen our understanding, expand interactions and continue to move forward together. This process has been an enjoyable, informative and educational experience.”
Deputy Chair of the Board, Alex Claassens, echoed these sentiments and spoke to the importance of conversation and connection in reconciliation: “It’s a privilege to celebrate the launch of our Innovate RAP. Being part of and giving back to the community is important to us. I encourage people to have conversations - to have a yarn. Those one-on-one discussions help build understanding, respect and connection.”
Pictured: Australian Mutual Bank staff celebrate the Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan launch in uniforms featuring the RAP artwork.
Australian Mutual Bank’s Innovate RAP reflects our ongoing commitment to walking alongside local communities in the journey toward reconciliation. We are deeply grateful to everyone who joined us to mark this important milestone in our history.
Our Reconciliation Action Plan is central to Australian Mutual Bank’s growth as an organisation committed to contributing to a just and equitable Australia. We thank Reconciliation Australia for their guidance and support in shaping our Innovate RAP, and we look forward to continuing this journey together with humility, purpose and care.
