| While many Australians are concerned about international companies taking money out of Australia, the National has reversed the trend. We now earn almost half our profit overseas through our operations in Europe, Asia, New Zealand and the United States. Our ongoing growth in very tough international markets makes a vital contribution to this country's economy. Not least because it's helped make us one of the largest tax payers in Australia. But even though we continue to expand overseas, we remain firmly based in Australia. We employ over 22,000 people in this country. We are currently one of the leading providers of home loans in Australia, helping thousands of Australians own their own home. And we don't just operate in the capital cities. Today, almost half of our branches are located in rural Australia, where we continue to be one of the main providers of finance to rural business. In a financial world that is becoming increasingly global, it is vital that Australia retains its own financial institutions while building a competitive international presence. The National is helping do both. | 
