Thursday, 4 May 2023

Commonwealth Bank Fawkner branch

Kathleen MATTHEWS-WARD (Broadmeadows) (10:03): I rise to update the house on important issues in Fawkner today. Last week we had the pleasure of visiting John Fawkner College with the Premier to talk to the dedicated staff and students there. We chatted about the $14.5 million planned upgrade of the school to build new classrooms and science, technology, arts and food tech buildings. I also had the pleasure of turning the first sod on the $36.8 million redevelopment of Fawkner Leisure Centre and the new outdoor pool along with minister Ros Spence, Peter Khalil and Merri-bek council.

However, despite this record level of government investment in Fawkner, the Commonwealth Bank have decided to close their branch on 26 May, resulting in a loss of local jobs and leaving residents without walkable access to a bank. Fawkner has a higher than average number of people without internet access, at 24.7 per cent, and high levels of people who speak a language other than English, people with disability and people over 80. Fawkner also has lower than average car ownership and household income. Being able to do one’s own banking in one’s community is important to local businesses and to many people. We know that financial elder abuse is on the rise, and this is due in part to people without internet access or skills relying on others to help them with banking and finances. I am very disappointed with the Commonwealth Bank’s decision despite their incredible profits, and I have let them know of my strong opposition to their plans. I thank local resident and community leader Hassan Gul, who has organised a petition, which so many people signed at our power saving bonus street stall on Saturday.