Banks are ready to assist customers in financial difficulty
11 June 2021
Australian banks are supporting communities in the Victorian Gippsland region after devastating rain and floods have engulfed the area.
Flood waters have hit the region harshly, badly affecting residents including farmers, and the wild weather is expected to continue.
Australian Banking Association CEO Anna Bligh says banks have a range of measures in place for residents in need.
“Once conditions ease, it’s important for anyone impacted to know their bank is ready to provide assistance,” she said.
“During disasters like this, the message from banks is always clear: don’t tough it out on your own, your bank is ready to help.”
“During disasters like this, the message from banks is always clear: don’t tough it out on your own, your bank is ready to help.”
ABA CEO Anna Bligh
There are a range of services available from the banks, which include:
- Credit card, personal loan and home loan relief.
- Waiving fees and charges.
- Waiving the application fee for restructuring business facilities.
- Deferral of principal and/or leasing payments.
- Free professional and confidential counselling.
Anyone impacted by the floods is encouraged to contact their bank directly.
Latest news
Banks welcome Treasurer Jim Chalmers’ release today of draft regulations to lift the cap on covered bond issuance, a practical step that would help small and mid-tier banks access cheaper, more stable funding. ABA CEO Simon Birmingham said these changes, including streamlined reporting for smaller banks, are a welcome part of the Government’s broader productivity… Read more »
Banks have welcomed Shadow Treasurer Tim Wilson’s call today for the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) to give more weight to economic growth in their decision making. ABA CEO Simon Birmingham said regulation that supports growth is key to lifting productivity across the economy. “Banks want to… Read more »
E&OETV InterviewInterview ABC Afternoon Briefing19 October 2026 Topics: Australia-EU free trade deal, investment benefits Patricia Karvelas: Simon Birmingham is the CEO of the Australian Banking Association, but he’s a former finance minister in a previous coalition government. And our guest, welcome to the program. Simon Birmingham: Hi, Patricia. Good to be with you again. Patricia… Read more »