Justin Bice: A Community First Leader in our Region

Justin Bice, interim CEO of Goulburn Murray Credit Union (GMCU), is a true product of the regional lifestyle, having spent much of his life in regional Victoria. A proud family man, Justin cherishes the values instilled in him as a kid and has carried them into his professional life, where he has become a respected leader in the banking industry.

Growing up in regional Victoria, Justin experienced the unique blend of freedom and community that such an environment offers. "I love having been brought up in a regional lifestyle," he recalls. "Riding my bike to school, enjoying the liberties of living in a close-knit community, and playing a lot of sport. These were formative experiences for me". This childhood not only shaped his character but also instilled a deep appreciation for community values and the importance of local connections.

Justin's journey into the banking sector wasn't a straightforward path. After completing school, he initially took up a job as a landscape gardener. However, he quickly realized that his true calling lay elsewhere. With his father having had a long and distinguished career at Bendigo Bank, banking was in his blood, even though he initially resisted the idea. "I remember as a kid saying that I would never work in banking because Dad was there," Justin says with a chuckle. Yet, fate had other plans. His first banking job came about when his father, recognizing his potential, reached out to a colleague to help Justin find a role in banking. This opportunity marked the beginning of a successful career in banking.

Before joining GMCU, Justin served as the CEO of Macquarie Credit Union, which eventually merged with Regional Australia Bank. His experience at Bendigo Bank, where he worked for a decade, and a stint at the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA), gave him a comprehensive understanding of both the corporate and community aspects of banking. "I was really drawn to the Community Bank model at Bendigo Bank," Justin explains. "It was a shared revenue model between the community and the bank, which aligned with good customer outcomes."

Justin's move into the mutual banking sector, particularly at GMCU, was a natural progression. He found that the customer-owned model offered a unique opportunity to prioritise members' interests above all else. "There's nothing like it," he says. "When your shareholders are your customers, your primary goal is to serve them, not just profit-driven shareholders. This means our decisions are always made in the best interest of our members, both depositors and borrowers."

GMCU has a proud history, focusing on supporting its members and the broader community. This approach ensures that the credit union remains true to its mission of providing financial services that are beneficial to all members, not just a select few. "We're not driven by the need to cut costs to the bone to satisfy shareholders," he notes. "Our emphasis is on making decisions that support our members and the community."

A significant part of GMCU's community support involves maintaining a physical presence through its branch network. This is especially important for vulnerable community members who may rely on in-person banking services. Justin and the team are also dedicated to helping people navigate the increasingly digital banking environment. "We’re keen to support people when it comes to using technology to help with their banking," Justin says, highlighting the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in modern banking.

Justin sees GMCU not just as a financial institution, but as a partner that walks alongside the community. This partnership is crucial for the economic vitality of the region. "The reliance of the community on us is significant," he notes. "For them to retain businesses in the town and keep their economy strong, they need a financial institution to partner with them." This perspective underscores GMCU's role in sustaining the local economy and supporting small businesses, which are often the backbone of regional communities.

Beyond his professional responsibilities, Justin is deeply passionate about seeing the region thrive. He sees immense potential in Shepparton and its surroundings, not just as a place to work but as a wonderful place to live and raise a family.

"The region itself has such a great opportunity to present its wares," he says.

He is particularly enthusiastic about the natural beauty of the area, including its rivers and walkways, which offer residents and visitors alike a chance to enjoy the outdoors.

Justin and his wife, Kira, are raising their three children in Shepparton, where they have found a welcoming and diverse community. Their eldest, Archer, attends St. Brendan's School and is thriving there. The family's newest member, Flynn, born in November last year, adds to the joy and vibrancy of their household. Eden, their four-year-old, completes the trio, and together they are making the most of the opportunities and lifestyle that the region offers.

For Justin, living in Shepparton is about more than just providing for his family; it's about giving them the space and opportunities to grow and explore. "I want to give them opportunities to feel like they can be themselves and do all the activities they'd like to do," he shares. This sentiment reflects his broader vision for the community—a place where everyone can thrive and reach their full potential.

In Justin Bice, Shepparton and GMCU have a leader who truly embodies the spirit of community. His dedication to supporting the local population, coupled with his personal investment in the region's success, makes him a pivotal figure in ensuring that Shepparton remains a vibrant and supportive place to live and work.