ANZ has become the first major bank in Australia to offer non-binary gender options and the gender-neutral title "Mx" for its retail banking products. This initiative allows customers to select these options when applying for products through the ANZ App, online, by phone, or in person.
Non-binary is a legally recognized gender across Australia. However, individuals who do not identify as exclusively male or female often face challenges when forced to choose between binary options that do not reflect their identity.
Darren Baird, ANZ Portfolio Lead for Digital, emphasized the bank's commitment to diversity and inclusion: “Diversity and inclusion is a core part of our values at ANZ and it’s important to us that our non-binary customers feel recognised and represented in all areas of their life, including when they do their banking."
He added: “Today’s announcement ensures non-binary people can choose the title and gender option that reflects their gender identity when applying for and using ANZ products. We’re proud of this step to more inclusive gender and title options for our non-binary customers.”
The new options are available to anyone opening a retail account via various channels. Existing customers can update their information at a branch or through the call center. These changes apply to credit card applications made in person or over the phone, with online system updates currently underway.
This move comes just before International Non-Binary People’s Day on July 14. Last month, ANZ announced that employees affirming their gender could access six weeks of paid leave and up to 12 months' unpaid leave.
The implementation project was coordinated by ANZ's LGBTIQ+ employee network with support from numerous staff members.