Westpac’s Sudden Branch Closure in Tennant Creek Draws Sanctions - CatholicCare NT

With no notice or transition, many Aboriginal and older community members were left without essential banking services, when Westpac abruptly closed the local branch in Tennant Creek. Kelly Gulliver, Financial Wellbeing and Capacity Manager for CatholicCare NT and Marcella Rankine, our Tennant Creek Manager were quick to respond to community needs and we felt compelled to raise this issue at a higher level as it  represents the vulnerability of small and regional towns across Australia who are impacted by banking closures. 

Today the Banking Code Compliance Committee (BCCC) sanctioned Westpac for serious and systemic breaches of the Banking Code of Practice after it failed to provide adequate support to customers following the closure.

What we achieved:

Sanctions: The BCCC has sanctioned Westpac for serious and systemic breaches of the Banking Code of Practice, highlighting the impact of our advocacy.

Public Accountability: Westpac’s non-compliance has been publicly acknowledged, ensuring the community’s concerns are heard and addressed.

Increased Awareness: Our work has brought national attention to the challenges faced by remote communities when essential services like banking are removed without proper support.

Support for Vulnerable Customers: We’ve highlighted the critical need for culturally sensitive and accessible banking solutions, especially for Indigenous and elderly community members.

Community Empowerment: Our advocacy has strengthened our resolve and commitment to ensuring that all community members have access to essential services, contributing to social and economic participation.

See the report here Investigation – Westpac Branch Closure (CX16004) – The Banking Code Compliance Committee

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