Our Impact.
Putting people and planet first, now that's brave.
Our Impact
Caring for the planet means caring for each other.
Our approach to sustainability.
We have always been guided by strong environment, social and governance (ESG) principles at Summerland Bank. Our commitment to protect our natural environment and positively impact our local communities is at the core of who we are. Our business is only successful when our region is strong, and our success allows us to give back.
What are we doing, for a better tomorrow?
As a B Corp certified business, we are working to make a positive impact for people, the environment, and the culture of business. We are joining hands and forces to build an economy that benefits all people and the planet we share.
We are raising our standards and then raising them again. We are enlisting new voices, reaching new communities, pushing new boundaries.
How we celebrated B Corp month in March!
This B Corp Month, we supported local charities and community groups through our ‘Community Matters’ initiative. Our team nominated and voted for inspiring organisations, resulting in donations to several impactful causes. This initiative strengthened our community connections and reinforced our commitment to social responsibility.
Delivering a positive impact.
We actively pursue environmental and socially sustainable business practices. We go beyond the traditional definition of sustainability to make sure we are growing ethically and responsibly to provide a braver banking alternative long into the future.
Our impact.
A bank that truly exists for the benefit of customers and the communities it serves — now that’s brave. For Summerland Bank, sustainability represents a commitment to fostering a resilient and thriving environment within the region it serves. We recognise the unique challenges of the region and aim to contribute positively to the well-being of our local communities.
Why sustainability
Sustainability embodies our commitment to creating a positive impact on the environment, local communities, and our customers.
Environmental impact
Summerland Bank is invested in fostering positive change for the planet and future generations. The environment is a key area of focus for us.
Social impact
Summerland Bank has always worked hard to strengthen and support the local community; founded on a belief in the power of the collective.
What we do and don't support.
As part of Summerland Bank’s commitment to developing a more sustainable world, we do not invest in a whole lot of nasty things.
Sustainability stories.
At Summerland Bank, we believe in making a positive impact on our community and the environment. These stories explore topics related to sustainability, eco-friendly practices and innovative solutions employed by us and our community.
Our community.
Summerland Bank operates on the principles of reciprocity. Our customers invested wealth enables us to invest back into our shared community; the people, spaces and places that make up our unique pocket of the planet. And we love watching it thrive.
Common FAQs
The answers to the questions we hear the most, in easy-to-understand language.
What sustainability initiatives does the bank have in place?
At Summerland Bank, we’re deeply committed to sustainability. Since 2008, we’ve implemented sustainability initiatives to reduce our carbon footprint, focusing on resource conservation and using renewable materials in card manufacturing.
Socially, we sponsor local events, provide scholarships, and actively engage in disaster relief efforts.
As a certified B Corp business since 2023, we adhere to high standards of social and environmental performance.
Eco Loans that incentivise sustainable property choices, are one of the ways we integrate sustainability into our business model. Together, we’re making a positive impact on the environment and local communities while promoting ethical banking practices.
How does the bank support environmentally friendly practices in its operations?
At Summerland Bank, we’ve been integrating environmentally friendly practices into our operations for over a decade.
Our sustainability program, launched in 2008, emphasises renewable materials in card manufacturing and stringent environmental protocols for internal resources.
Our Eco Loans offer discounted rates for sustainable property choices.
And, as a certified B Corp business, we actively support koala protection efforts in the region through partnerships, donations and staff volunteer leave.
What is the bank’s stance on ethical and socially responsible investments?
At Summerland Bank, we’re deeply committed to ethical and socially responsible investments. As a certified B Corp business, we prioritise environmental conservation and social impact alongside financial returns. Our investment decisions align with our core values, actively seeking opportunities that promote sustainability, fairness, and community support. Simultaneously, we maintain a principled stance by avoiding investments in fossil fuels, tobacco, gambling, live animal export, and weapons manufacturing. These exclusions reflect our dedication to ethical standards and our mission to make positive contributions to society and the environment.
How does the bank engage with the local community?
At Summerland Bank, we’re deeply committed to engaging with our local community. Here’s how we make a positive impact:
Community partnerships: We collaborate with local charities, non-profits, and community groups to address social and environmental issues. Through financial contributions, volunteering, and in-kind donations, we aim to create meaningful change.
Financial education programs: Empowering our community with financial literacy skills is important to us. We offer workshops, seminars, and online resources to enhance the financial well-being of our community.
Local sponsorships and events: We sponsor local events, festivals, and sports teams, fostering vibrancy and cultural richness. These initiatives bring people together and strengthen community bonds.
Employee volunteerism: Our staff actively volunteer—whether it’s community clean-ups, mentoring youth, or serving on non-profit boards.
Small business support: We provide tailored financial solutions, advice, and resources to help local businesses thrive. Supporting entrepreneurs contributes to our community’s economic vitality.
Does the bank have a commitment to diversity and inclusion?
At Summerland Bank, we take immense pride in embodying the spirit of an equal opportunity employer. Our commitment to gender equity is more than a statement; it’s woven into who we are.
We actively seek to welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds, including but not limited to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples, those from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) people, and individuals with disabilities.
Our belief in fostering an inclusive workplace goes beyond words – it’s a pledge to embrace the richness that diversity brings, ensuring every individual has the opportunity to thrive and contribute their unique perspectives to the Summerland Bank family.
Locals love Summerland Bank.
Don’t take our word for it. Here’s what our customers have told us.
“I’ve been with Summerland for 28 years and truly appreciate the refreshing friendliness of their customer service”.
Carmen from Ballina.
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“Since joining Summerland 3 years ago after moving up from Sydney, we’ve been so happy to find a bank that aligned with our values”.
John from Kingscliff.
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“We have been banking with Summerland Bank for many years and secured multiple separate home loans”.
Liz from Bangalow.
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