Thousands of credit union, mutual bank leaders to descend on Sydney for first time
Australia’s customer-owned banking sector will find itself in the limelight next July as it prepares to host the 2026 World Credit Union Conference in Sydney.
For the first time, Australia’s largest city will welcome thousands of credit union and mutual bank leaders from around the world, with the Customer Owned Banking Association (COBA) hosting the event alongside the World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU).
COBA chief executive and chair Michael Lawrence (pictured in 2024) said: “On behalf of Australia's customer-owned banks, we’re thrilled to welcome our international colleagues to Sydney.
“This event is a unique opportunity for our sector to collaborate across borders, strengthen our purpose-led banking model, and drive purpose-led innovation across the global financial landscape.”
WOCCU interim president and chief executive Paul Treinen added: ““There is no question COBA is a world-class organization based in a world-class city. I have no doubt they will help us attract a large gathering of industry professionals who will get to experience an amazing World Credit Union Conference.”
The World Credit Union Conference, set for 19-22 July 2026 at the International Convention Centre Sydney, is expected to attract over 2,000 delegates. The agenda includes keynote presentations, interactive workshops, and global networking opportunities – all hosted by COBA and WOCCU.
It will be only the second time the event will be held in Australia, the last being on the Gold Coast in 2014.
COBA represents 52 customer-owned banks, including credit unions and mutuals, while WOCCU’s network spans over 75,000 credit unions serving more than 280 million members globally.
MPA recently hosted a roundtable with Australia's leading customer-owned banks, including Gateway Bank, Beyond Bank, Teachers Mutual Bank, P&N Bank, People First Bank and Bank Australia, to discuss the biggest issues impacting the sector in 2025.
Roundtable participants touched on the substantial level of consolidation happening in the industry, broker relationships, and the competitive advantages mutuals have over the banking giants.
