A new era in Australian banking

People’s Choice will continue operating as usual until we officially transition to the People First Bank brand. Our existing customers will be the first to know when this happens and given plenty of notice.

When we make the switch to People First Bank, People’s Choice customers will automatically be customers of People First Bank. In time, you’ll be invited to switch your banking to the new People First Bank App and Online Banking in a few simple steps. Keep an eye on your emails and our website for more updates in the coming weeks.

Our new name and brand – People First Bank – says exactly what we’re all about: people. 

The new brand builds on our past, reflects the deep roots and values of both brands, and is underpinned by the feedback from our people and customers who told us they wanted us to continue to put people first.  

People First Bank reflects our continuing focus on delivering positive change for our members, communities and people, while underscoring our ongoing commitment to being a purpose-driven, customer-owned alternative to the listed banks.

There are no immediate changes. Both the Heritage Bank and People’s Choice brands will continue to operate as usual for now.  

Over time, products and services will be rebranded, and customers will continue to have access to a range of competitively-priced products and services. In time, we will also move to a single technology platform, ensuring our members can access a contemporary banking platform to meet the needs of new and existing members.

Customers will be kept updated throughout this process so that they know what to expect as the changes will be introduced progressively over some time.

Our rebranded branches will continue to offer the same range of People’s Choice branded products and services.  All products, services and advice obtained in those branches will continue to be provided by Heritage and People’s Choice Ltd trading as People’s Choice Credit Union.

Yes. We remain 100% customer-owned and focused on serving you, our customers. Our new brand reflects our aspiration as a national mutual that offers a genuine alternative to the listed banks.

The simple truth is that many people today aren’t familiar with the terms “credit union” or “building society”, and don’t understand what they mean. Using the term “bank” in our name makes clear to everyone what our core business is. 

That’s not to say we are the same as the other banks. We differentiate ourselves as a purpose-driven alternative to the listed banks, which have a focus on making profits for the benefit of shareholders. 

The merger has provided the scale needed to ensure customers continue to benefit from competitive financial products, personalised customer service and modern, secure banking technology – all with the care that only a strong, sustainable, customer-owned banking organisation can provide.

We are now large enough to offer customers more but still small enough to retain the personal touch.

The benefits that customers will enjoy over time as a result of the merger include:

• Gaining access to one of Australia’s largest customer-owned branch networks of over 70 sites.
• A wide range of competitively-priced products and services.
• Better payment options.
• The removal of a number of fees and charges.
• 24/7 Australian-based call centre support and Saturday trading in selected branches. 
• Contemporary, secure digital banking, backed by ongoing investment to meet members’ evolving needs.
• A minimum of $50 million over five years in community support and environmental initiatives.
• Local knowledge, employment and investment from our permanent, dual head offices in Adelaide and Toowoomba.