Celebrating a century of partnership and community

It’s not every day you get to celebrate a 100th birthday. 

CommBank recently helped mark a significant milestone - the 100th birthday of the Australian Post-Tel Institute (APIWA), a not-for-profit organisation that has been an important part of Western Australia's community for the past century.

APIWA, originally formed through the social clubs of Australia Post and Telstra, has evolved over the years to become one of the oldest and most successful rewards and entertainment providers in Western Australia.

For the last 100 years, CommBank has proudly served as APIWA’s banking partner, supporting their mission to provide benefits to their members since their establishment in 1925.

“We made it! We’re officially 100 years old. It’s a magnificent milestone that provides an opportunity to reflect and appreciate the last century of memories, achievements and experiences together,” said Linda Ross, CEO of APIWA.

“Not many associations reach the ripe old age of 100. We’ve survived wars, depressions, recessions, a pandemic and natural disasters and are proud to have been a part of the lives of West Australians for generations,” she said.

CommBank’s General Manager Small Business Banking WA, Phil McVeigh, said turning 100 was a testament to APIWA’s longevity, resilience, and the association’s ability to adapt to the social, and technological changes of the last century.

Like APIWA, CommBank has a rich history in Western Australia, having commenced operations in Perth in 1913.

When APIWA was established back in 1925, phones had rotary dials, letters took weeks to arrive and when Perth’s population was barely 200,000. CommBank was still operating out of ledgers and inkwells.

Mr McVeigh continued: “For generations, APIWA has supported West Australians to participate in their communities and fostered a sense of belonging. CommBank has been by their side every step of the way. Not every relationship can stand the test of time and I’m grateful that APIWA continues to choose to bank with us today.”

“We are proud to support not-for-profit organisations like APIWA and have a shared dedication to making a positive impact in int he communities we serve,” he said.

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