Sydney. State-owned Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) inaugurated its representative office in Sydney, Australia, on Thursday. This marks the first Indonesian bank to open a branch in Australia.

"The establishment of BNI in Sydney will further strengthen the economic ties between Indonesia and Australia," said Deputy Foreign Minister Pahala Mansury, who also serves as BNI’s Vice Commissioner, in a statement on Thursday.

BNI CEO Royke Tumilaar explained that the bank has an international expansion plan aimed at extending its banking services and reinforcing its global presence. Currently, BNI operates several branches in key strategic countries. The opening of the Sydney office solidifies BNI’s position in the international market.

Royke highlighted four key reasons why Sydney was chosen as the new location. First, Sydney is a major financial hub in the Asia-Pacific region, enabling BNI to extend its reach into global financial markets. Second, it is a business and economic center in Australia, providing numerous opportunities for business and investment cooperation. Third, the Indonesian diaspora in Sydney is sizable, with about 42 percent living in the city, creating a demand for banking services tailored to their needs. Fourth, Australia presents new market opportunities that BNI has yet to explore, further aiding its expansion in the region.

Royke hopes that this new office will open more doors for enhanced business, economic cooperation, and relationships between Indonesia and Australia, as well as the broader Asia-Pacific region. As a state-owned bank, BNI is committed not only to providing top-tier banking services but also to facilitating trade, investment, and economic relations between Indonesia and its global partners.

The Sydney office will focus on research and analysis, offering business referrals to other BNI branches abroad. It will also act as a resource for Indonesian and Australian entrepreneurs seeking new business ventures, providing investment advice, market information, and networking opportunities.

Through seminars, workshops, and networking sessions, BNI aims to connect businesses from both countries, fostering mutually beneficial collaborations. The bank also plans to work closely with embassies, consulates, and business organizations to support government initiatives aimed at boosting bilateral trade and investment.

Currently, BNI operates offices in Singapore, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Seoul, London, Amsterdam, and New York, serving corporate and retail clients, supporting international trade, and providing access to global financial markets.

"BNI remains committed to being a national bank capable of competing globally, driving economic growth, and strengthening business relations between Indonesia and other nations," Royke concluded.

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