News & articles

The biggest home turn-offs are outdoors

Date published: 2025-10-28T10:33:04

5% Deposit Scheme opens more doors for first-time buyers

Date published: 2025-10-24T10:55:50

Changes to terms and conditions

Date published: 2025-10-22T16:33:12

Changes to savings, term deposit and overdraft rates and fees

Date published: 2025-10-16T16:23:09

We've made changes to some of our Term Deposit interest rates.

2025 Notice of Annual General Meeting

Date published: 2025-10-15T14:42:33

Digital Wallet Conditions of Use Update

Date published: 2025-09-16T12:37:51

There will be some disruptions to your account access as we prepare to integrate our banking systems beginning on 12 September 2025. We aim to have services back online by 14 September 2025.

Digital cards are here

Date published: 2025-09-13T13:36:52

There will be some disruptions to your account access as we prepare to integrate our banking systems beginning on 12 September 2025. We aim to have services back online by 14 September 2025.

The Pros and Cons of Choosing a Split Loan

Date published: 2025-09-09T13:06:34

Australian home owners are keen to make their homes more energy efficient.

Change to card transaction limits – delayed

Date published: 2025-09-03T16:04:05

The change to our card transaction limits has been delayed until further notice

Planned System Outage and Special Store hours

Date published: 2025-09-01T13:51:49

Changes to savings, term deposit and overdraft rates and fees

Date published: 2025-08-21T16:40:07

We've made changes to our Savings, Term Deposit and Overdraft rates and some fees

International Transfers via Internet Banking

Date published: 2025-08-21T10:38:16

Members will soon have access to the Convera International Transfer service via Internet Banking

Changes to Home Loan products

Date published: 2025-08-12T08:49:11

We've made changes to our Home Loan product suite

System Outage from 12 September 2025

Date published: 2025-08-05T12:53:51

There will be some disruptions to your account access as we prepare to integrate our banking systems beginning on 12 September 2025. We aim to have services back online by 14 September 2025.

Half of home owners plan eco-upgrades

Date published: 2025-08-05T10:19:22

Australian home owners are keen to make their homes more energy efficient.

Bank Holiday public holiday

Date published: 2025-08-01T08:57:01

Stay safe from Scams this Tax Time

Date published: 2025-07-14T13:26:01

Community First Bank proudly support Queenscliff

Date published: 2025-06-02T10:36:48

At Community First Bank, we believe in supporting local communities and making a positive impact where it matters most.

Get your auction game on

Date published: 2025-05-27T12:57:40

If you’re planning to buy at auction, it’s important to understand how the process works and how to be ready when the bidding begins.

Changes to Interest Posting Frequency

Date published: 2025-05-23T12:27:42

We're making changes to how often we pay interest on some accounts

Homeowners Pocket $230K in 5 Years

Date published: 2025-05-16T14:35:00

New data shows home values nationally have climbed 39% in just five years. It goes to show what an exceptional investment – and wealth builder – your home can be.

Changes to Term Deposits

Date published: 2025-05-15T21:55:09

We've made changes to our Term Deposits

Community First Bank celebrates International Nurses Day

Date published: 2025-05-12T11:46:01

Increases in Impersonation and Phishing Scams

Date published: 2025-05-05T09:03:29

Are Aussie’s Beating Scammers? (Heck, yes!)

Date published: 2025-04-28T11:34:11

We’re here to help with financial hardship support

Date published: 2025-04-04T09:27:14

Changes to Term Deposits

Date published: 2025-04-01T15:20:44

We've made changes to our Term Deposits

Enjoy greater control over your cards

Date published: 2025-03-26T13:07:52

Why Tying The Knot Costs More Than You Think

Date published: 2025-03-21T10:31:32

We’re making changes to our home loan rates

Date published: 2025-02-28T13:13:14

Changes to General Insurance

Date published: 2025-02-28T12:12:20

From 1st March 2025, Community First will no longer partner with CGU for the sale of insurance.

Young couple find first time perfect home

Date published: 2025-02-24T17:46:17

Young couple find first time perfect home in Phegans Bay

The hidden cost of older homes

Date published: 2025-01-08T02:01:05

Older homes are big on charm but low on energy efficiency.

Important update for cards in your mobile wallet

Date published: 2024-12-31T02:37:19

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Changes to credit card fees

Date published: 2024-12-18T02:23:17

We've recently made changes to some of our credit card fees

Christmas and New Years opening hours

Date published: 2024-12-17T23:23:49

Check out when our stores and call centres will be closed during the holiday season.

Exciting News! The merger vote has been approved!

Date published: 2024-12-12T21:36:20

Exciting news – the merger has been approved.

Value of Aussie homes tops $11 trillion

Date published: 2024-12-10T23:44:32

It’s official—residential real estate is helping Australians grow their personal wealth.  This highlights the value of entering the market as a homeowner or investor.

Delay to Currency Conversion Fee changes

Date published: 2024-12-02T04:38:13

Changes to our Currency Conversion Fee have been delayed

Australians set to spend $1,000 each on Christmas

Date published: 2024-11-24T23:27:00

Ready for the festive season? With just weeks remaining until Christmas Day, we look at simple strategies to help you shop smart and save.

Changes to our Term Deposit Interest Rates

Date published: 2024-11-19T23:42:03

We've recently changed some of our Term Deposit interest rates

Change to our Overlimit Fee

Date published: 2024-11-07T23:29:12

We've recently made a change to our Overlimit fee

Notice of Special General Meeting

Date published: 2024-11-07T02:34:03

Notice of 2024 Annual General Meeting

Date published: 2024-10-24T05:53:09

Our Annual General Meeting will be held on Thursday 28 November 2024.

Why rental yields matter for investors

Date published: 2024-10-15T02:24:13

Thinking of an investment property? There are suburbs where rent returns can outpace mortgage interest rates.

We will be closed for Labour Day

Date published: 2024-10-01T23:15:36

We will be closed on Monday 7 October and re-open as normal on Tuesday 8 October

Blockheads beware – the one factor the reno shows don’t address

Date published: 2024-09-24T04:03:30

Home renovation shows are in abundance, they inspire plenty of Aussies to launch their own renovation projects. But there’s one key factor the shows don’t address. 

Changes to our Term Deposit interest rates

Date published: 2024-09-17T05:39:55

We've recently changed our Term Deposit interest rates

Our 15-year partnership with McGrath Foundation surpases $1.5 million milestone

Date published: 2024-09-06T01:14:09

Since 2009, we've donated over $1.5 million to the McGrath Foundation with the support of our wonderful members who choose our pink debit and credit cards. 

5 game-changing trends revolutionising banking and payments

Date published: 2024-09-03T00:56:30

New technology has shifted customer preferences and behaviours, especially with the rise of more convenient forms of payment. Here are five trends you may have noticed.

Important Changes to Apple Pay

Date published: 2024-08-29T03:37:28

From September 2024, there will be important changes to our Debit Cards in Apple Pay. 

How to spot and avoid investment scams

Date published: 2024-08-27T01:24:16

Investment scams top the list when it comes to scam losses in Australia. In 2024, reported investment losses have been trending down but remain high, with nearly $80 million lost so far this year according to Scamwatch data.

3 Simple steps to stop scammers in their tracks

Date published: 2024-08-25T22:33:08

Scams awareness is critical to help us rethink how we can protect our accounts, our money and our identity – and a few basic precautions can go a long way. Here are 3 simple steps to stop scammers.

No fun refunds, tax refund go on household bills

Date published: 2024-07-30T05:19:21

Over 9 million Australians expect a tax refund this year, with the average person anticipating a refund.

Beware of callers claiming to investigate a scam

Date published: 2024-07-03T04:26:46

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Our Green Car Loan is a winner

Date published: 2024-06-26T00:17:47

Community First named best car loan for EVs in Finder awards 

Five trends that have changed we pay & bank

Date published: 2024-06-11T05:29:35

New technology has shifted customer preferences and behaviours, especially with the rise of more convenient forms of payment.

Our next chapter

Date published: 2024-05-24T06:57:18

In a step that will provide opportunities for all our members and staff, Community First Credit Union (Operating as Community First Bank) and Illawarra Credit Union are planning to merge.

A bridge to your dream home

Date published: 2024-05-21T05:16:08

Upgrading to your next home is exciting, do you wait until your current home is sold to start house hunting.

Telephone Banking Changes

Date published: 2024-05-21T00:05:49

Telephone banking service will reach its end of life from 30th of November 2024.

Mt Druitt Store is on the move

Date published: 2024-05-17T03:10:56

On 3 June 2024, we're opening the doors of our new store

Gambling transactions now blocked on credit cards

Date published: 2024-04-19T03:50:57

From 18 April 2024, changes will be applied to credit cards

Fraudulent website mirrors AUSTRAC

Date published: 2024-03-28T00:18:12

A fraudulent website has been created by scammers to mirror some of the content on the AUSTRAC website.

How to keep your home cosy without overheated power bills

Date published: 2024-03-27T03:36:38

As winter approaches and energy costs continue to soar, keeping your home warm without breaking the bank.

Community First recognised in 2024 Finder Credit Card Awards

Date published: 2024-03-21T04:15:08

The Community First Low Rate Credit Card has been named Highly Commended in the Best Low Rate Credit Card category of the 2024 Finder Credit Card Awards.

Coming off a fixed rate? – here’s how to prepare

Date published: 2024-03-12T00:35:14

Is your home loan fixed-rate term scheduled to end this year?

Keep your personal details safe

Date published: 2024-03-12T00:22:24

Scams are becoming sophisticated and more complex.

Are you paying credit card loyalty tax

Date published: 2024-03-11T23:44:15

Australians are losing billions by sticking with the same credit card.

Changes to our Summary of Accounts, Access Facilities & Transaction Limits

Date published: 2024-02-29T23:37:39

We've made some minor changes to our Summary of Accounts, Access Facilities & Transaction Limits schedule.

Why time can be your best tool in property

Date published: 2024-02-28T22:58:04

There are compelling reasons to retain ownership of a property for an extended period of time.

How to avoid side hustle scams

Date published: 2024-02-28T00:11:46

Scammers have been targeting Australians seeking additional income through online side hustles.

Our Green Loan is a stand out performer

Date published: 2024-02-27T23:43:30

Community First Green Loan has secured the prestigious Best Green Loan award for 2024 from RateCity.

Changes to our Christmas Cracker Account

Date published: 2024-01-31T02:15:26

On 1 February 2024, there will be some interest rate and fee changes to our Christmas Cracker account.

Community First Bank unites in pink

Date published: 2024-01-16T00:01:12

The Virtual Pink Seats sold during 2024 Pink Test will allow the McGrath Foundation to fund an additional 240 McGrath Breast Care Nurses.

Property purchasing housing hacks

Date published: 2024-01-10T01:03:49

If you're finding it hard to buy a first home in the area you'd like to live in, it can be worth thinking about making your purchase an investment property.

Curing a New Year debt hangover

Date published: 2024-01-10T00:54:54

It's easy to overindulge in holiday season spending. If your finances have taken a dip in the red during the festive season, check out our 5-step holiday debt hangover cure.

Changes to fees and charges

Date published: 2023-12-22T02:55:47

We've made some changes to some of our fees and charges in December 2023.

Top five Holiday Scams to look out for during the holiday season.

Date published: 2023-12-20T04:07:38

Fraudsters have honed their skills, check out the top 5 holiday scams in this article.

Christmas Trading hours

Date published: 2023-12-04T00:13:01

To find out or Christmas and New Year trading hours click through to view the details.

Proudly supporting Queenscliff Surf Life Saving

Date published: 2023-12-01T07:09:00

Community First Bank has enjoyed a long lasting relationship for nearly two decades, taking immense pride in being a dedicated sponsor for Queenscliff Surf Life Saving Club.

Scams Awareness Week

Date published: 2023-11-19T22:59:19

This year's Scams Awareness Week is the first campaign established by the National Anti-Scam Centre.

Why credit cards can trump buy now pay later cards

Date published: 2023-11-13T01:00:24

The peak spending period of the year is upon us, and as many look for payment options to see them through, it can be worth considering a credit card for festive buys rather than relying on buy now pay later options.

Reward your finances for going green

Date published: 2023-11-07T03:11:00

More Australians are choosing an electric vehicle, we look at how a low rate Green Car Loan can help you save the planet and your pocket.

2023 64th Annual General Meeting

Date published: 2023-10-23T05:53:34

Community First is a member owned organisation. As a member, you can attend the Annual General Meeting (AGM) to catch up with the past year’s performance; to listen to plans for the future; to have your say and to vote on any matter on the Agenda.

Using our app for mobile banking

Date published: 2023-09-12T02:45:18

There have been recent reports of biometric (IOS Face ID/Touch ID & Android Fingerprint) errors with some users.

Beware of Linkt Road Toll Scams

Date published: 2023-09-12T01:39:47

Scammers are taking advantage of phone scams pretending to be from toll operator Linkt. Let's take a look at how the scam works and how to be aware.

Steps to take when considering a bridging loan

Date published: 2023-08-17T05:44:50

The decision to take a bridging loan can be both exciting and daunting as homeowners navigate the delicate balance of selling their current property while securing a new one.

Enhanced security measures are now mandatory.

Date published: 2023-08-01T04:15:34

Over the past 6 months we’ve been working hard to uplift the security of our internet banking and mobile app to better protect our members.

4 Facts to know about bridging loans

Date published: 2023-07-19T23:02:53

Making your next property move but need to sell your existing property first? Read about bridging loans to see if it's right for you. 

Green loans benefiting the community

Date published: 2023-07-17T03:15:15

The world is changing rapidly and being a customer-owned financial institution means we must also adapt to meet members' needs.

How to keep your credit score healthy

Date published: 2023-06-22T05:15:54

Your credit score can play a key role in helping you take out a loan or credit card – so it pays to nurture your number!

5 tips for preparing to come off a fixed rate

Date published: 2023-05-24T23:53:55

Better prepare yourself for coming off a fixed rate period of your loan. Here are 5 tips to help you feel more confident and in control.

Tips for first time renters

Date published: 2023-05-24T01:28:27

Moving into a rental is a big step. Here’s how you can plan ahead and be prepared to make the experience a positive one.

You can now set a stronger Internet Banking Password

Date published: 2023-04-20T00:19:39

Changes to our internet banking passwords to improve your online banking security.

Community First – a Safe and Secure option

Date published: 2023-03-24T04:42:51

Over 60 years of experience shines through.  It is very reassuring for all our members to know that Community First is no stranger to turbulent times.

Are scams becoming more common?

Date published: 2023-03-23T21:42:05

If you think scams are becoming more common, you’re right. The good news is that we’re less likely to fall for them, but we still need to remain vigilant.

Time to cheque out

Date published: 2023-03-19T23:45:24

In these days of digital banking, personal cheques are fading from the banking landscape.

6 simple steps to take each pay day

Date published: 2023-03-19T23:30:21

Who doesn't love pay day? It can be a chance to get more from your money with 6 easy-as steps.

Outsmart scammers to keep your money safe

Date published: 2023-03-09T22:18:03

It's crucial to stay informed about tactics used by scammers, to avoid them gaining access to your money.

Important tips to protect your money

Date published: 2023-02-06T00:00:22

Explore the various ways you can keep your PINs and passcodes secure as well as how to properly safe guard your cards and devices