Member for Morwell Russell Northe has expressed his disappointment upon hearing news the Bendigo Bank had intended to close its Morwell branch effective from 14 May.
Mr Northe said the people of Morwell had been dealt a number of blows with the closure of multiple banks in the town in recent times.
“My office and I have received plenty of feedback from many local residents who are frustrated and even angry at this decision” Mr Northe said.
“I understand that banking has changed; however for those who need and like to do their banking in person this is essentially a loss of a vital and critical service” Mr Northe continued.
“It’s also problematic for those who operate businesses and who previously utilised the services of the Bendigo Bank’s Morwell branch. Quite often businesses need to undertake in-person interactions with their bank and now they will have to find other alternatives which can be timely and costly” Mr Northe said.
“I have on behalf of Morwell residents and businesses requested the Bendigo Bank reconsider and reverse this decision given the impact the closure of this branch will have upon the local community” Mr Northe continued.
Mr Northe also urged local customers of the Bendigo Bank to not vent their frustration at local staff members.
“Local staff will be going through such a trying time at present with their own futures uncertain. This decision was obviously not made by local staff and its important local staff are treated with courtesy and respect during this difficult period” Mr Northe concluded.
