Media releases

This follows CBA’s shocking decision to close Bankwest’s entire branch and ATM network in Western Australia (WA) by October this year, costing 350 jobs.  

Finance Sector Union (FSU) National Assistant Secretary Jason Hall said Bankwest workers have had enough of CBA’s empty promises.  

“When CBA closed the entire Bankwest branch and ATM network, it committed to redirecting 500 much-needed roles to WA. But in reality, CBA has cut over 280 jobs from WA since September 2022, including another 12 roles slashed just this week,” Mr Hall said.  

“This is an appalling decision by CBA and not only lets down workers but abandons loyal customers who are already finding it difficult to access essential banking support services.  

“FSU members are fed up of their jobs being at risk and as part of negotiations for a new Enterprise Agreement, are calling on CBA to commit to no further job cuts and to maintain the Bankwest brand.  

“Our members are proud to work at Bankwest and have contributed many years of loyal and dedicated service to the brand – we don’t want to see it turn into CBA Lite.”  

FSU member representatives from Bankwest recently met with WA Treasurer Rita Saffioti to discuss the significant impact of the Bankwest branch closures.  

“We have made representations to the WA Treasurer to outline the full extent of job losses at CBA in WA over the past 18 months,” Mr Hall said.  

“The bank’s decision to close all its branches (which impacted 350 roles) and ruthlessly slash 280 other jobs, demonstrates that no job is safe in WA right now.”  

In addition to a commitment of no further job cuts in an Enterprise Agreement, Bankwest workers are also calling for fair pay increases and other improvements to work conditions including flexible working arrangements, progressive leave entitlements and improved consultation rights.  

Media contact: Stephanie Lim – 0434 160 521