THE ANZ Bank has confirmed it will close its Cohuna branch on March 19 next year.
ANZ general manager for Victoria Michael Wake attributed the closure to a growing national trend towards online services.
“In recent years we’ve seen a consistent change in the way our customers do their banking,” he told the Gannawarra Times.
“They no longer use branches as much and every year we see a 10 per cent decline in customer transactions. At the same time, demand for our contact centres has grown significantly. “
Mr Wake said the bank recognised the transition would be challenging for some customers.
“We are writing to customers personally to let them know about the closure, which is about six months away.
“This will provide time for us to discuss alternative banking methods with them, including online, telephone and mobile banking.
“We will work individually with our vulnerable customers to help them with alternative branches, digital options, using the contact centre and debit cards.”
The bank would try to retain as many staff as possible, Mr Wake said.
“We’re making every effort to find redeployment opportunities within the bank, particularly with the unprecedented demands on our call centres.”
Cohuna neighbourhood house co-ordinator Tanya Black said it was disappointing for the community to lose another bank.
“But maybe it’s an opportunity for a new enterprise,” she said.
“The building is prime real estate in the main street with really nice architectural features.”
