The BDCU Group FAQ's
It all started back in 1963, when a group of co-workers at Southern Portland Cement in Berrima pooled their savings to help colleagues who couldn’t access credit. Neighbours helping neighbours — and that spirit still guides us today.
From those humble beginnings, we’ve grown into the BDCU Group, made up of two connected parts: The Collective Impact and Community Bank BDCU.
A local, member-owned social enterprise with more than 10,000 members.
This is where our economic and social programs live — supporting essential worker accommodation, wellbeing initiatives, grants, partnerships and projects that help people live, work and thrive locally.
Your local bank — a franchise of Bendigo Bank — owned by the members of The Collective Impact. When you bank with Community Bank BDCU, your everyday banking keeps money working locally, generating profits that are reinvested back into our community.
At the BDCU Group, we don’t just pursue profits; we pursue profits with purpose.
Our business approach ensures that every financial decision we make not only delivers returns but also strengthens the foundation of our community. By prioritising sustainable growth, we build member capital that lays the groundwork for future investments and meaningful impact.
Owned by locals, operated for locals, and dedicated to our region, for more than 60 years we have supported the financial needs of our community. We’ve grown alongside the Southern Highlands and Tablelands, helping generations to buy homes, build businesses and achieve their goals.
While the way we support our customers has evolved, our purpose remains the same: to stand beside our community.
Our member-owned banking franchise, Community Bank BDCU, reinvests its profit to strengthen the communities we serve — funding projects, supporting local organisations and backing the needs and dreams of the people who call this region home. Because when our customers succeed, so does our community.
Since 2021, The Collective Impact Community Grants Program has empowered local organisations to create lasting change for the people who need it most.
What makes this program powerful is simple: behind every grant are everyday people – volunteers, coaches, carers, and community leaders – working together to make a difference.
Through this program, we reinvest directly back into our region, building lasting partnerships with not-for-profits and grassroots groups.
Together, we’re not just funding projects – we’re strengthening the backbone of the Southern Highlands and Tablelands.
Our Impact Over the past five years, more than $194,000 has been awarded to 26 community organisations. Grants range from $700 to $10,000, with biannual rounds of $25,000 ensuring that support remains ongoing and accessible.
You can find out more about the program and eligibility here.
Launched in 2025, the Community Bank BDCU Scholarship Program represents a $250,000 investment over five years – $50,000 each year – to support local TAFE students, apprentices, and healthcare workers.
The program is designed to ease financial pressure and open doors:
▪ TAFE and Apprentice Scholarships provide direct support for individuals over 16 living or working in the region, covering course fees and essential costs.
▪ Health & Wellbeing Scholarships award up to $5,000 each to healthcare workers, enabling continued professional development while serving our community.
Our spaces are home to co-working facilities, meeting rooms, and event spaces.
The Collective Impact combines a unique offering with both in-person support and destinations where you can work, hold meetings or launch your next project.
BDCU The Collective Impact Community Members (NFP's) who hold active Community Bank BDCU accounts are entitled to free meeting room space (subject to availability).
