Financial Assistance Hub: find out more
7 June 2021
Australian banks are ready to assist their customers affected by the extended lockdown in Victoria.
A number of support measures are available and banks are urging customers in hardship to get in touch.
“Banks know that these lockdowns can have devastating consequences, especially for small businesses”, said ABA CEO Anna Bligh.
“The message from banks is clear: don’t tough it out on your own. Call your bank. They will do whatever they can to help.”
ABA CEO Anna Bligh
The type of assistance offered will depend on individual circumstances, but can include:
- Adjustments to loan repayments
- Waiving fees and charges
- Interest free periods or no interest rate increases
- Debt consolidation to help make repayments more manageable
“Banks were in a strong position to help millions of customers through 2020. They stand ready to continue that support now, as Victoria grapples with the virus again”, Ms Bligh said.
Bank branches remain open as an essential service during the Victorian lockdown.
Latest news
Media Releases
Finalisation of independent pricing model report to support cash distribution
Read more
3 October 2025
Deloitte Access Economics has now determined its recommended regulated pricing model for Armaguard’s Cash-in-Transit services. The final independent pricing mechanism report has been provided to Armaguard as well as the major banks and major retailers. This is an important milestone in working to keep cash available around Australia, even while people are using less of… Read more »
Transcript
ABA CEO Simon Birmingham transcript of interview on ABC RN Breakfast with Sally Sara
Read more
24 September 2025
E&OERadio InterviewABC RN Breakfast with Sally SaraWednesday, 24 September 2025. Sally Sara (Host): Reserve Bank Governor Michelle Bullock has hit out at Australia’s big four banks for standing in the way of making shopping cheaper for customers. The RBA wants to ban surcharges on card payments. To fund the ban, it wants to dramatically cut… Read more »
Media Releases
Australian banks acknowledge the contribution of outgoing ASIC Chair Joe Longo
Read more
19 September 2025
The ABA today acknowledges and thanks outgoing ASIC Chair Joe Longo for his strong leadership as Chair of ASIC for the past five years. ABA CEO Simon Birmingham said Mr Longo had made a significant contribution to ensuring Australia has a fair financial system focused on the interests of both investors and consumers. “The ABA… Read more »