Another one bites the dust

LNP Member for Gregory Lachlan Millar said he was “bitterly disappointed” with the decision. 

According to ANZ, their decision reflects the way in which customers are now choosing to bank.

“Not everyone wants to bank online or over the phone,” Mr Millar said.

“These services are unreliable and impractical in the bush, where we continue to battle a data drought.

“The ANZ bank says basic face-to-face transactions will be transferred to the Springsure Post Office, however this will do little for small businesses in the area who are seeking to bank more than the daily cash limit.   

“This decision will force small business owners and local residents to drive to Emerald to access additional banking services like managing loan accounts and replenishing ATMs.

“Their decision will have serious implications for the local community and the wider region including Rolleston and Gindie who rely on these services in Springsure.

“I am calling on the ANZ Bank to reconsider their decision.

“I don’t want to see another bank closed on the Central Highlands.”

An ANZ spokesperson said the decision had “not been taken lightly”.

“We recognise that this decision may mean a change for some of our customers, yet we are offering our dedicated support in helping them make this transition,” they said. 

“Customers in the area are changing the way they do banking by using the Springsure branch less and less.

“Only 15 per cent are using the branch for their everyday banking needs compared to almost 60 per cent of customers who prefer alternatives such as our mobile banking app goMoney and internet banking.

“With these changes in mind we will continue to meet our Springsure customers’ needs through our digital, ATM and Bank@Post channels.”

Customers who still prefer face-to-face transactions can also use the Bank@Post facilities located at 33 Eclipse Street, Springsure (300m away from the branch site) which will offer deposits, withdrawals and payments for customers using ANZ debit or credit cards.

The ATM will remain. 

Consultations have begun with the Springsure branch staff.