Westpac have informed staff at five St George Branch locations of their plans to permanently shut the doors at their branch. This will mean cutting 25 jobs.
Just nine weeks into 2019 this latest announcement will bring the total number of planned branch closures to twenty-seven, and raises questions about Westpac’s plans for their retail network.
Banks Again Put Profits Before People
Once again, we see profits being prioritised over people, staff and local communities. A number of groups in the community, including the elderly and business sector, value branches. This is a prime example of the continued failure of Westpac to uphold its “service” promise.
As consultation with impacted workers begins, FSU calls on Westpac to maximise redeployment opportunities for these workers.
The following St George branches have been identified for closure:
- Joondalup (WA)
- Fremantle (WA)
- Mandurah (WA)
- Kawana (QLD)
- Raymond Terrace (NSW)
Support For Affected Employees
If you are impacted and want to retain a role, speak up as part of the consultation process currently underway.
The Westpac Group Enterprise Agreement 2019 (EA), sets out your rights and entitlements, including what steps Westpac must undertake in consulting you about the proposed branch closures.
The agreement provisions include:
- Genuine consultation periods to consider members’ feedback about proposed changes;
- Measures Westpac will take to mitigate the adverse affect of the change;
- Fair redeployment process that includes access to case managers and consideration of employee preferences.
If you and your colleagues are impacted, make sure you have all the facts. FSU members can access our Member Rights Centre on 1300 366 378.