The Australian Banking Association (ABA) is the information source for the news media on the Australian banking industry, providing information, analysis and context on industry issues.
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COVID-19 Banking Timeline
see what’s happened in the Australian banking sector
An independent review of retail banking product commissions and payments has described the change in culture and practices as a “substantial achievement” that will improve outcomes for customers. The Australian Banking Association commissioned Mr Stephen Sedgwick AO in 2016 to undertake a large scale review of remuneration practices for frontline staff. This review, delivered in… Read more »
Banks across Australia are ready and willing to assist customers affected by the COVID-19 lockdowns.
“If you’re concerned you are being coerced or taken advantage of financially, I encourage you to contact your bank.” ABA CEO Anna Bligh
“Once conditions ease, it’s important for anyone impacted to know their bank is ready to provide assistance”
“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.”
“I’m urging anyone who has been affected by the mouse plague to get in touch with their bank and find out about the assistance on offer.”
New data shows debit cards are the clear choice of payment in post-COVID Australia, outweighing credit cards by almost three times, while cash use has significantly declined.
“Australian banks partnered with the Government throughout the pandemic. With this solid mix of investment and support for households and businesses, that collaboration is set to continue”
The ABA has welcomed the Federal Treasurer’s release of new regulations that licence debt management firms, a change called for by the ABA.
“Sustainable farms are productive and profitable farms which is the end goal for farmers and lenders alike”
Australian banks are launching updated guidelines on financial abuse as part of their continued focus on responding to family violence and elder abuse.
Australian banks are urging state and territory governments to adopt consistent laws on powers of attorney to prevent elder financial abuse.
Australian banks are supporting communities in New South Wales after torrential rain and floods in parts of the state. Floodwaters have inundated towns on the NSW North Coast, Sydney has been pummelled by heavy rain and more is forecast in coming days. Australian Banking Association CEO Anna Bligh says banks have a range of measures… Read more »
“Over the past year, banks have cushioned the blow for their customers. Through 2021, their priority is helping customers rebuild and get ahead”
“right at the height of COVID, when things were at their absolute worst, only 10% of Australian mortgage holders deferred the payments on those mortgages. 90% of those people are now back paying in full.”
“This is the right product for the times. It includes more flexibility, and will allow small businesses to re-stock, rebuild and recover”, said ABA CEO, Anna Bligh.
Australian banks are supporting communities in Far North Queensland affected by Tropical Cyclone Niran.
“No customer is going to wake up the day after the 31st of March and find that there is some legal action being taken by their bank on their loan.”
The ABA supports the proposed licencing regime for debt management firms and has called for further changes to protect consumers.
“The most important consideration right now is staying safe. But when West Australians affected by recent bushfires are ready to pick up the pieces, their bank will be ready to help,”