Merger Plans

Important Update - Proposed Merger Moves to Member Vote

We’re excited to share an important milestone in the proposed merger between SWSbank and Regional Australia Bank.

The first phase of regulatory approval has now been received, allowing the proposal to move to the next stage, where eligible members will have the opportunity to vote on the merger.

A stronger future for regional banking

If approved by members, the merger will create a stronger customer-owned bank dedicated to supporting regional communities across New South Wales.

By bringing together two like-minded mutual banks, we will have greater capacity to invest in our people, technology, products and communities, helping ensure local banking remains strong for generations to come.

What the proposed merger means for members

Greater access: More than 50 branches across regional and rural NSW as well as more than 3,000 Bank@Post locations nationwide.

Greater capability: A team of more than 450 employees focused on supporting members and communities; enhanced products and services, including business and agricultural lending; continued investment in digital banking and customer experience.

Greater support for communities: Increased capability to invest in local sponsorships, community initiatives and sustainability programs.

Together, the combined bank will have more than $5 billion in assets and support more than 130,000 members across regional NSW.

SWSbank and Regional Australia Bank share a strong commitment to customer-owned banking, local decision-making and supporting regional communities. Bringing our organisations together will help us continue delivering these benefits well into the future.

What stays the same?

If the merger proceeds, members can expect the same branch locations and the same people providing the same friendly service SWSbank is known for.

How to vote

Members can vote on the proposed merger in one of the following ways:

By Proxy

Members who have provided an email address to SWSbank will receive an email containing a personalised voting link. Electronic voting will close 48 hours before the AGM.

Proxy Forms will also be available on our website, in branches, or by post upon request. Completed Proxy Forms must be lodged at least 48 hours before the AGM.

Members may:

• Appoint the Chairman as their Proxy. If no voting instructions are provided, the Chairman will vote in favour of all resolutions.
• Appoint another person as their Proxy, including:
• • An attorney acting under a valid Power of Attorney.
  • A corporate representative for company members with appropriate written authorisation.

In Person

Attend the Annual General Meeting on 19 November 2026 where registration and 'on the day voting' will open at 2:00pm and close at 3:00pm. Each eligible member may vote once.

Full details on voting procedures, including proxy appointments, will be included in the Notice of Annual General Meeting and Proxy Form provided to eligible members before the meeting.

The SWSbank Board are unanimously recommending that members vote “yes” to the merger as they believe this provides excellent outcomes for a sustainable future for our members and staff.

What happens next?

• Information sessions will be held across the SWSbank branch network during October 2026 where you can hear directly from the CEOs from both banks.
• Members will receive information about the merger and voting process ahead of the AGM.
• Members will vote on the proposed merger at the AGM on 19 November 2026.
• Subject to member approval and other remaining requirements, the merger is expected to take effect on 1 April 2027.

Thank you for being a valued part of our community.

If you have any questions, our friendly, local team is here to help. Feel free to reach out to us at companysecretary@swsbank.com.au or call us on 02 6384 1111.

All media enquiries should be directed to the SWSbank CEO, Andrew Jones.