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
New ABA Chair appointed to lead banking industry
Read more
3 December 2025
ANZ CEO Nuno Matos has been appointed as the new Chair of the ABA Council, as banks continue their focus on meeting the needs of customers as well as playing a crucial role in the Australian economy. At the ABA’s Annual General Meeting today in Melbourne, ING CEO Melanie Evans was also reappointed as Deputy… Read more »
Media Releases
Banks welcome draft scams codes progress
Read more
29 November 2025
The ABA welcomes today’s release of draft industry designations and framework for scams code obligations for banks, telecommunication companies and digital platforms – reinforcing the importance of an ecosystem approach in the fight against scammers. ABA CEO Simon Birmingham said the draft materials were the next piece of the puzzle in ongoing efforts to drive… Read more »
Transcript
ABA CEO Simon Birmingham interview on ABC Pacific Beat
Read more
28 November 2025
E&OE Radio Interview ABC Pacific Beat 28 November 2025 Topics: Loan scams impact seasonal workers; Scam protection tips Host: Welcome back to Pacific Beat. Seasonal and PALM scheme workers in Australia are being advised to stay vigilant and not share their personal details with anyone. It follows an alert issued by Commonwealth Bank warning about scams targeting seasonal workers…. Read more »