Westpac Banking Group is planning to close seven more branches across their retail network in Queensland and South Australia, a decision that will result in bank workers being made redundant.
St George branches at Ashgrove, Capalaba, Loganholme, Kippa Ring, Morayfield and Victoria Point in Brisbane, along with Westpac Glenside in South Australia are earmarked for closure in November. A total of 28 staff will be affected by the closures, along with customers and communities.
Finance Sector Union (FSU) Local Executive Secretary (QLD) Wendy Streets said: “There are 18 St George branches in the greater Brisbane area and with this latest announcement of 6 closures the bank will be cutting 34% of their branch network and 25% of their workforce.”
“It is not good enough for Westpac to put profits before people and communities.”
“While the banks’ all claim they shut branches because customers are using internet banking, we know the real reason is that the branch doesn’t generate enough profits for the bank.”
“How can Westpac claim to be working hard to regain the trust and confidence of workers and local communities following the Hayne Royal Commission when it has closed 67 branches so far this year across Australia.”
“Closing these branches, deserting customers and making staff redundant is a disgrace.”
FSU is calling on Westpac to maximise redeployment opportunities for all impacted workers. Advising staff via teleconference that there are only 4 positions available for staff to be redeployed into is a slap in the face to workers.
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