Global Credit Union Leaders Conclude World Conference In Sydney
By CU Today Staff —
SYDNEY, Australia— More than 2,400 credit union and financial cooperative leaders from 39 countries wrapped up the 2026 World Credit Union Conference (WCUC) Wednesday after four days of discussions on leadership, innovation, cybersecurity, regulation and the future of cooperative finance.
Hosted by the World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU) and Australia's Customer Owned Banking Association (COBA), the conference focused on helping credit unions adapt to rapidly changing financial services while strengthening collaboration across the global cooperative movement.
Michael Lawrence formally welcomes Joe Thomas.
"The strength of the global credit union movement comes from our willingness to learn from one another, confront shared challenges and work together toward solutions," WOCCU President and CEO Paul Treinen said, adding that the ideas and relationships built during the conference would help credit unions remain "relevant, resilient and ready" for the future.
The conference also marked a leadership transition for WOCCU, as former Board Chair Michael Lawrence formally welcomed Joe Thomas as the organization's new board chair.
"Together, let us forge a brighter future for our members and the communities we serve around the globe," Thomas told attendees during the ceremonial transfer of leadership.
The closing general session featured keynote speaker Freddie Ravel, who blended live music with leadership lessons, urging attendees to improve communication, align teams around a common purpose and recognize the importance of human connection in building high-performing organizations. The conference also celebrated the 25th anniversary of the World Young Credit Union Professionals (WYCUP) program, recognizing its role in developing future leaders across the global movement.
The conference concluded with a closing celebration overlooking Sydney Harbour, ending a week of networking, idea sharing and international collaboration. WOCCU announced the 2027 World Credit Union Conference will be held July 25-28 in Dublin, Ireland.
Originally reported by CU Today.