Media releases

FSU National President Wendy Streets said the conditions imposed as part of the acquisition mean that regional communities will continue to have access to essential banking services and vital finance jobs will be saved.

“We’re pleased to see commitments that for three years, no regional ANZ or Suncorp bank in Australia will be closed, there will be no changes to the number of Suncorp branches in Queensland and no net job losses across Australia as a result,” Ms Streets said.

“This gives our finance workers greater job security during what is a challenging process. Importantly, vital banking services will be protected in regional communities, something that is desperately needed amid the slew of regional bank closures we’ve seen take place in recent years.

“The FSU has strongly advocated for our ANZ and Suncorp members throughout this process. We sincerely thank the Treasurer for listening to the voices of hundreds of finance workers and ensuring they are not forgotten.”

The FSU additionally welcomes the commitments to support workers affected by the acquisition with specialist support and training, and to work with the FSU on community and worker concerns.

“This will help reskill affected workers and maximise opportunities for redeployment or new technology jobs in the future. The creation of a Tech Hub in Brisbane will also provide 700 vital jobs for the next five years and another 450 jobs after five years,” Ms Streets said.

“Proper engagement with the FSU and with finance workers means workers will be respected and heard throughout this process and beyond, as well as help minimise community concerns.

“The Treasurer has taken the time to genuinely consider the impact this major acquisition will have on workers with these positive conditions, and we’ll now be holding ANZ accountable to ensure they are upheld.”

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Media contact: Stephanie Lim – 0434 160 521