Our brand history

OnePath and its heritage companies have a long and fascinating history in Australia.

 

As OnePath we will continue to build on the legacy of the past 130 years and work to strengthen the relationships and operations established previously as Mercantile Mutual and ING Australia.

 

A proud history

A lot of water has gone under the bridge since Mercantile Mutual opened its doors over 130 years ago. The company has changed locations, acquired new businesses, been acquired by other businesses and changed brands. While we have changed a lot on the outside, on the inside we've remained a people-focused business working to help Australians shape and protect the quality of their lives.

 

Now, as part of ANZ, we will have a number of new opportunities to grow and develop as a business. This is an exciting time as we take the next step on our path and we want all our customers to share this journey with us.

 

The history of our business at a glance

  • Mercantile Mutual was established in 1878 in Sydney after three Sydney businessman came up with the idea to start a distinctly Australian insurance company after gathering financial backing from friends and supporters during a cricket match in November 1877.
  • Through the 1950s, 60s and 70s the company continued to grow with the acquisition of Oceanic Insurance, Australian General Insurance and Australian Metropolitan Life.
  • In 1982 Mercantile Mutual became part of the ING Group when it acquired 50% of the company.
  • In 1987 ING acquired 100% of Mercantile Mutual.
  • Mercantile Mutual changed its name to ING Australia in 2001.
  • In 2002 ING Australia became a funds management and life insurance joint venture owned 51% by ING Group and 49% by ANZ bank.
  • In late 2009 ANZ acquired 100% of ING Australia.
  • In 2010 our new brand OnePath was launched.

 

About ANZ's acquisition of ING Australia

From May 2002 until November 2009, ING Australia operated as a joint venture between ANZ and the global ING Group (ING). On 30 November 2009, ANZ purchased all of ING's shareholding and took 100% ownership of the company.

 

Following the acquisition it was announced that ING Australia would operate under a distinct new name and brand identity. OnePath is the new name and brand.

 

A distinctive new brand

The OnePath name and brand recognises that people take different paths in life. Our role is to help people shape and protect the quality of their chosen path through life.

 

We have a strong parent in ANZ who is committed to investing in and growing our business.