A member’s story of trust, values, and why she’s voting Yes.
Tanya never imagined that two of the most important banks in her life might one day become one. But when she heard about the proposed merger between Summerland Bank and Regional Australia Bank, her first reaction wasn’t hesitation, it was recognition.
She’s been with Summerland since 1997, and over the years, she’s seen the institution grow, evolve, and strengthen, all without losing its personal touch.
Her relationship with Regional Australia Bank began more recently, in 2019, when she was helping her younger sister who was recovering from a car accident apply for her first home loan. “She couldn’t work at the time and was in a really tough spot,” Tanya recalls. “But RAB didn’t treat her like a number. They saw the human side. That meant everything.” After seeing how her sister was supported, Tanya became a customer herself.
The Heart of Local Banking
What’s kept Tanya loyal to both banks? It comes down to people.
Over the years, she’s referred family and friends to both institutions. From helping her transfer funds while working overseas before online banking was the norm, to support with travel insurance and everyday finance, the service has always felt local, real, and deeply human.
And she’s noticed something striking.
“Both banks operate the same way. They care. The people they hire genuinely want to help. That’s why this merger doesn’t feel like a risk. It feels like the next chapter.”
Why Tanya is Voting Yes
Tanya sees the proposed merger not as a loss of identity, but as a chance to preserve what matters and make it stronger.
“If this goes ahead, I see more branches, more visibility, and more opportunity, not just for members, but for staff and communities too.”
She knows not everyone will have had the chance to experience both banks like she has. But that’s exactly why she believes member votes matter now more than ever.
“I’ve banked with both. I know how they work. This isn’t about becoming something different, it’s about doing what they already do well, together.”
A Message to Other Members
Tanya’s message is simple: this is a rare opportunity for members to help shape the future of their bank.
She believes in the merger, but also believes in protecting what’s made each bank special. Things like local staff, accessible service, and community reinvestment.
“As long as those values are protected, everything else can grow around them.”
For Tanya, a "Yes" vote isn’t just a decision about the future. It’s a commitment to the values that have already changed her life, and the lives of those around her.
Your vote matters. How to vote in the proposed merger.
As a valued member of Regional Australia Bank, your voice matters. We’re proposing a merger with Summerland Bank, and you’re invited to help shape our future. This is your opportunity to support a stronger, purpose-led bank, one with more branches, better services, and deeper community impact. On this page, you’ll find everything you need to know about how to vote, the key dates and documents.
Frequently asked questions
How can I cast my vote for the merger?
- By proxy – complete the proxy form sent to you and return it by email, post, or by handing it in at a branch.
- In person – attend the AGM on 20 November 2025, where you’ll be able to vote directly.
I have more than one membership with Regional Australia Bank, how many votes do I have?
- Each customer is entitled to vote only once.
- If you have more than one personal membership, you still only get one vote.
- For non-personal memberships (e.g. companies, partnerships, or associations), a representative must be appointed to vote on behalf of that membership.
- If a Body Corporate Representative is also a personal member, they may vote once in their personal capacity and once as the appointed representative.
Is a member vote necessary?
To approve the merger, yes.
Both parties will hold a member vote via their Annual General Meeting (AGM). Regional Australia Bank's AGM is on 20 November 2025 and Summerland Bank’s AGM is on 19 November 2025.
What is the deadline for voting?
Proxy voting opens on 2 October 2025 and closes at 5pm on 18 November 2025.
If you’re voting in person (or online), you can do so at the AGM on 20 November 2025 at 6:00pm.
Who is eligible to vote?
- Any Regional Australia Bank customer aged 18 or older on 20 November 2025 is entitled to vote.
- If you hold a non-personal membership (e.g. company, partnership, or association), you must appoint a representative to vote on your behalf.
- Any customer who is under 18 on 20 November 2025 is not eligible to vote.
