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Together, We’re Stronger: A Merger for Regional Australia’s Future
Strengthening our communities, building a stronger future for our members.
We are pleased to share with you the details of a proposed merger between Regional Australia Bank and Summerland Bank, two financially strong, purpose-driven, customer-owned banks that are committed to creating better outcomes for our members and regional communities.
This merger is not being driven by necessity, but by opportunity. With the support of both Boards and following a thorough due diligence process, we believe this is a positive, future-focused step for both organisations and most importantly, for you, our members.
Both banks have a proud history of service, local knowledge, and community investment. We share common values of mutuality, sustainability, and regional empowerment. Through this merger, we aim to combine our strengths to deliver more for you, more services, more innovation, more regional impact, while continuing to stay true to our member-first ethos.
Key dates
Here are the key dates to keep in mind so you don’t miss your chance to vote on the proposed merger.
From 2 October 2025
You can start casting your vote by completing and returning the Proxy Voting Form that will be available on the website and in branches.
By 18 November 2025, 5:00pm
Make sure your Proxy Voting Form has been received if you’re voting this way, it needs to have been submitted at least 48 hours before the Annual General Meeting (AGM).
20 November 2025, 5:00pm
Attend the Annual General Meeting (AGM) in person at Head Office located at Technology Park, Madgwick Dr, Armidale NSW to cast your vote directly and hear the results.
Member information booklet
As a valued member of Regional Australia Bank, your voice matters more than ever. To help you understand what the proposed merger with Summerland Bank means, we’ve created a Member Information Booklet. It includes everything you need to know, from what the merger involves, to how and when to vote, and what it could mean for our future together.
What the merger means for you
More branches, no closures
Maintain and grow a network of 49 branches with no closures planned
Greater regional support
Retain over 450 regional staff with no job losses
Driving innovation
Invest more in digital banking, security, and innovation
Better banking
Improve pricing competitiveness and product range
Stronger local communities
Strengthen our investment in local communities
Key milestone: APRA approval of proposed regional bank merger
29 August 2025: The proposed merger between Summerland Bank and Regional Australia Bank was approved by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) on 28 August 2025. The two banks announced their intent to merge in October 2024, and the APRA approval will give members the opportunity to greenlight the merger at the Annual General Meetings in November.
How will this merger benefit me as a member?
The merger aims to strengthens both mutual institutions, ensuring a long-term commitment to prioritising member interests and community impact. Importantly, there will be no branch closures; instead, we will extend our branch network to better serve you.
What are the key dates and timelines for the merger?
Member votes are scheduled for late 2025, and the legal merger is set for 1 July 2026.
What does a regionally focused bank mean for my services?
Creating a regionally focused bank allows us to tailor our services to meet the specific financial needs of our members. This means you can expect more personalised service and products designed for our local community.
What does due diligence mean?
Due diligence is a process where a comprehensive investigation is done by parties on each other to ensure both parties understand each other and is fully aware of any risks. In the case of Summerland Bank and Regional Australia Bank, we will spend time reviewing and understanding each other’s processes, business model, risks and performance to confirm the intention to merge with the other party.
What is the strategy of the combined organisation?
The strategy is to preserve and extend face-to-face retail banking services across regional communities.
When will the merger be effective?
Should this merger be successful, the legal merge will not come into effect until 2026.
Who can I talk to if I want to find out more information?
If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our customer service team or visit our website for updates. Your feedback is invaluable as we move forward together.
Who is Summerland?
Founded in 1964, Summerland operates as a Mutual Bank in regional Australia. Summerland have network of 10 branches across the Northern Rivers NSW and South East Queensland. Employing over 100 regional Australians, Summerland take pride in being a major local employer. The team is passionate about serving the community and ensuring that their financial services align with the values of the people they serve.
Who will be the CEO?
The CEO of the combined institution will be David Heine, the current CEO of Regional Australia Bank. John Williams, the current CEO of Summerland will be the Deputy CEO (Strategy). Michelle Edmonds will retain the role of Deputy CEO (Customers).
Why Choose Summerland?
We share a common foundation rooted in mutual values and a commitment to serving regional Australia. As mutual banks, we prioritise our members over profit, ensuring that our focus remains on community needs and sustainable growth.
Why should we merge?
By joining forces, we can enhance our collective ability to provide tailored financial solutions that align with the aspirations of regional Australians. This partnership will not only strengthen our presence but also deepen our commitment to the communities we serve, allowing us to empower even more individuals and families across our regions.
Will my accounts and services change during the merger?
Your existing accounts and services will remain intact throughout the merger process. You will continue to enjoy the same high level of service you’ve come to expect. Any changes will be communicated well in advance to ensure a smooth transition.
Will the merger affect the staff I currently work with?
We want to reassure you that our employees will experience job security, career development opportunities, and geographic flexibility. This stability among staff will ultimately lead to better service for our members.
Will there be branch closures?
No, there are no branch closures planned, as there is no overlap between branches.
Will we still be Regional Australia Bank?
Yes, our name is important to us. We will still be Regional Australia Bank. The brands will continue, but there will be future work to explore options for brand consolidation.
News, Press Releases and Notice to Members
2025
Augusts 2025
APRA approves proposed regional bank merger
April 2025
A message from our CEO - A new milestone in our journey with Summerland Bank
February 2025
Press Release - An update on the progress of the proposed merger with Summerland Bank
2024
October 2024
Press Release - Customer owned banks plan to come together to redefine the landscape of localised banking in regional Australia.
October 2024
Notice to Members on shared intent merger with Summerland Bank.