SYDNEY, Australia — Newly installed World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU) Chairman Joe Thomas pledged to make advocacy, financial inclusion and stronger global cooperation among credit unions the organization’s top priorities during remarks at the World Credit Union Conference in Sydney.
Thomas, who also serves as CEO of Apple Federal Credit Union in Virginia, said WOCCU will renew its focus on representing credit unions and the cooperative financial model before policymakers around the world while working to expand access to financial services for underserved communities.
Thomas opened his remarks by thanking outgoing Chairman Mike Lawrence for his leadership during what he described as a challenging period for the global credit union movement.
“I would like to thank Mike Lawrence for his tireless work over the last eight years, especially the last two as chairman of the World Council, where he successfully led the organization through very challenging times,” Thomas said. “Your leadership, professionalism and commitment to the international credit union movement are appreciated by all who have had the honor to work with you.”
Thomas also thanked the members and leadership of Apple Federal Credit Union for supporting his involvement with WOCCU over the years.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, Thomas said the organization’s advocacy efforts will center on strengthening the credit union movement while promoting policies that support economic growth and financial stability.
“As the World Council looks to its future, we renew our focus on advocacy for our members, our communities and the cooperative model that has proven to be a beacon of hope and empowerment for millions of people around the globe,” Thomas said.
He said credit unions have an opportunity to amplify their collective voice and influence public policy by promoting the cooperative financial model.
“Together, we have the opportunity to amplify our voice and ensure that it resonates in the corridors of power, shaping policies that encourage growth, stability, security and prosperity for all,” he said.
Financial Inclusion to Remain a Focus
Thomas said financial inclusion would remain at the center of WOCCU’s advocacy agenda.
“At the heart of our advocacy efforts lies a core value that is fundamental to the very essence of credit unions — financial inclusion,” he said. “When we uplift our members, we uplift communities, creating a ripple effect that fosters shared prosperity.”
As chairman, Thomas pledged to continue engaging policymakers, raising awareness of the cooperative model and highlighting the role credit unions play in promoting financial resilience.
But he stressed that advocacy extends beyond legislation and regulation.
“Advocacy is not just about policies. It’s about people,” Thomas said. “It’s about our members — teachers, farmers, entrepreneurs and families striving for a better life. We must continue to tell their stories, showcase how credit unions transform lives and demonstrate the tangible impact of our work.”
Thomas said each member’s story illustrates “the power of cooperation and the difference we can make when we stand together.”
Collaboration Urged
He also called on credit unions worldwide to strengthen collaboration by sharing ideas and learning from one another.
Thomas said WOCCU’s renewed emphasis on advocacy also represents a reaffirmation of the cooperative movement’s core principles, including solidarity, equality and mutual support.
He encouraged credit unions to continue exchanging best practices while pursuing innovation and excellence in serving members.
“Together, we can strengthen the unique role of financial cooperatives in the lives of ordinary people,” Thomas said. “Together, we can champion the cause of financial inclusion and advocacy. I want to thank you all for the work you do in your own credit unions, your leadership, your support and your unwavering commitment to our shared vision,” he said. “Together, let us forge a brighter future for our members and the communities we serve around the world.”
