After starting as a funeral fund for Melbourne postal workers in 1905, membership of APS Benefits today offers a range of financial services and is open to all people from three levels of government as well as the Defence Forces.
The society was formed in 1905 when a small group of postal workers decided to put in sixpence a week to form a funeral fund for the widows when any of the society members died.
The postal network spread the word and APS – starting as the Victorian and Tasmanian Public Service Provident Society – became one of the larger of many funeral funds in the 1920s and 1930s in Australia. In 1938, the Government perceived a need to assist public servants to obtain financial help as they usually received a slightly smaller salary, but greater security, than those in the private sector. This lack of cash drove the public servants into the hands of backyard financiers and pawn brokers who charged exorbitant interest.
APS Benefits strongly supports community needs and defence groups, in particular the Defence Special Needs Support Group.
In recent times DSNSG has received $150,000 for various group and individual projects. APS sees this contribution as an integral part of its commitment to the community. When a member dies, APS still pays out within 24 hours, so that the peace of mind offered a century ago is just as important today.
For more information please visit www.apsbs.com.au.
* Copy supplied by APS Benefits
