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Commonwealth Bank’s Veterans Employee Network has launched a new Challenge Coin program – a proud nod to a military tradition that celebrates achievement, commitment and camaraderie.
Challenge Coins have long been symbols of honour and belonging. Originating during the First World War, they were struck and distributed among unit members as a means of identification should they become separated from their comrades.
Over time, these coins evolved into cherished tokens of recognition and respect, exchanged across military and service organisations around the world. While their meaning is instantly recognisable to those who have served, the tradition remains largely unknown outside defence circles.
That’s now changing with veterans and reservists helping bring the custom into the corporate world. Challenge Coins are increasingly being presented within organisations as a way to recognise leadership, teamwork and the spirit of service.
Among those embracing the idea is CommBank, whose Veterans Employee Network (VEN) launched the bank’s own Challenge Coin as part of its efforts to celebrate and support those with a connection to the defence community.
Formed just over a year ago, CommBank’s VEN provides a platform to support the wellbeing and professional development of military veterans and their partners across the organisation. It also encourages veterans to share the leadership, resilience and teamwork skills honed through their service to strengthen the bank’s culture.
VEN’s inaugural chair, Dan Liddell, a veteran of both the Australian Defence Force and the corporate sector, said the initiative reflects the enduring values shared by both communities.
“The CBA Challenge Coin is more than a token – it’s a symbol of shared service, unity and gratitude,” Liddell said.
“It marks the journey of those who stand together in support of our veteran and defence community.”
Roughly the size of a traditional medallion, the CBA Challenge Coin features the bank’s iconic “Beacon” logo and its purpose statement, “Building a brighter future for all”. The reverse side displays the VEN badge alongside the bank’s values: Care, Courage and Commitment.
Members of the VEN Council have been entrusted with a select number of coins to present to colleagues and community members who best embody these values and the spirit of mateship at the heart of both the ADF and CommBank.
As Liddell puts it, “Whether earned through membership or gifted in recognition, each coin tells a story of commitment, camaraderie and contribution to a greater purpose.”
