Fuelling the Fire signals new approach for ANZ
ANZ’s inaugural Australian First Nations Strategy marks a new chapter in their relationship with First Nations peoples, shifting from a primarily social endeavour to a clear commercial and strategic priority for the bank.
To mark the launch of the strategy, Fuelling the Fire, ANZ commissioned a baandana (Taungurung word for message stick) crafted by Kulin Elder, Uncle Mick Harding.
The design centres on the symbol of fire, representing the Strategy, alongside elements of strength, growth and community—reflecting shared aspirations between ANZ and First Nations peoples.
The baandana has travelled across Australia, including to offices and branches in five States and Territories, creating opportunities for employees to engage more deeply with the Strategy. This initiative went beyond awareness, fostering a meaningful cultural connection and shared understanding of the Strategy’s purpose, themes and significance.
Fuelling the Fire sets an ambitious, decade long vision to advance First Nations’ aspirations for economic self-determination.
Grounded in reconciliation
Since its launch, the strategy has moved from design to delivery, with ANZ strengthening its capability, deepening relationships and progressing the Strategy’s three priorities.
Grounded in ANZ’s core business, commercial rationale and the strengths and aspirations of First Nations peoples, the approach remains grounded in reconciliation while placing greater focus on economic self determination and shared opportunity.
Improving financial inclusion and empowerment
As a foundation for economic self-determination, the bank is investing in financial capability and education, as well as in delivering simple, accessible and inclusive banking services that better meet the needs of First Nations customers.
Key progress:
Place-based financial education:
Expanded the MoneyBusiness program with the Indigenous Consumer Assistance Network (ICAN) to include two new modules on digital confidence and scam awareness; and reach more First Nations communities.
Community-led solutions:
Partnered with First Nations Foundation to expand the Foundations in-person community outreach and culturally grounded financial education; and to strengthen ANZ’s cultural capability.
Inclusive product design:
950+ First Nations people participated in market research to embed lived experience and strengthen inclusive, culturally relevant banking solutions.
Improved identity verification options and access:
Simplified identity checks for First Nations customers without standard documents by strengthening the Statement by Referee form and expanding referee options.
Access to finance:
Delivered above-average growth in First Nations business lending and deposits, reflecting increased demand. This has included a landmark First Nations energy project Jinbi Solar Farm, above, and continued growth through ANZ’s First Nations Guarantee, now supporting 29 businesses.
Stronger leadership:
Appointed dedicated First Nations business banking and economic development leads to drive coordinated, culturally informed customer strategies.
Capability building:
Partnered with Dilin Duwa to provide five MURRA scholarships and deliver lutruwita (Tasmania) regional workshops to support First Nations business capacity and leadership.
