The Mutual Bank has been named as one of the Hunter Region’s leading organisations, winning both the prestigious Business of the Year title and the Financial and Real Estate Services category at the 2026 Hunter Region Business Excellence Awards.
The dual recognition highlights the Bank’s longstanding commitment to delivering personalised, Member‑owned banking while supporting the financial wellbeing of local families, businesses and communities.
Chief Executive Officer Mark Williams said the recognition was particularly meaningful given the Bank’s deep connection to the region.
“This recognition reflects the trust our Members place in us every day,” Mr Williams said.
“To be named Business of the Year, alongside winning our category, is an incredible honour and a testament to our people, our purpose and our connection to the Hunter.
“Being recognised in a region like the Hunter – known for its resilience, strong relationships and community spirit – makes this achievement particularly meaningful for our organisation.”
Established in 1888, The Mutual Bank has supported generations of Members, reinvesting profits back into better rates, services and local initiatives rather than paying dividends to shareholders.
As a Member‑owned bank, its purpose has remained unchanged for more than 137 years: to champion the financial wellbeing of Members and contribute to stronger, more connected communities.
Mr Williams said the awards belongs not only to the organisation, but to the people behind it.
“This recognition is shared with our team, whose care and commitment show up in every interaction, and with our Members and community who continue to support us,” he said.
Over the past 12 months, The Mutual Bank has delivered strong performance and community impact, alongside receiving national recognition for its home loan offering and continuing to make investment in local initiatives across sport, education, health and social support services.
“Our focus has always been simple - to stand alongside our Members and back the region we’re proud to call home, and this award encourages us to keep doing exactly that,” Mr Williams said.
As proud sponsors of the Business Woman of the Year Award, The Mutual Bank also congratulates Sarah-Jane Dunford, Founder of Riskology, on this well-deserved recognition and celebrates the outstanding contribution she is making to the Hunter business community.
