General News
6 December, 2024
Are people really first?
Heritage Bank has announced that from 2025 it will restrict its Oakey branch opening hours to 9.30am to 1pm.
A spokesperson for Heritage Bank said the decision was made in response to changing customer demands.
From Thursday, 2 January 2025, the branch will open from 9.30am to 1pm, Monday to Friday.
“We deeply value the role our branches play in supporting local communities and providing in-person services for those who prefer them,” Maria-Ann Camilleri, Chief Customer Officer said.
“With more customers using ATMs, Internet Banking and our Mobile App for everyday needs, branch visits have declined.
“These revised hours ensure we can continue offering face-to-face services and local jobs at Oakey while adapting to evolving customer preferences.”
The move has received a mixed to negative reaction.
Oakey Chamber of Commerce President David Cooper said it was a disappointing decision for the town.
“As the community grows, we want to see services increase not decrease,” he said.
“I wonder whether they’d be able to reconsider it if there was more community support.
“As a Chamber, we’d love to help them meet their KPIs and keep them operating in Oakey.”
Dr Eric Donaldson, one of Oakey’s largest landowners is disappointed with the move.
“I transferred my bank to Heritage because I thought I was doing it for the benefit of Oakey,” he said.
“They’re going to lose customers.
“When there’s imminent development of housing going ahead in Oakey, it would seem foolish of Heritage Bank to sacrifice their eminent position.”
A well-placed source estimated that close to 80 per cent of organisations in Oakey have an account with Heritage, including churches, schools, tuck shops, community groups, sporting teams and the R.S.L.
“I never thought they would close at lunchtime,” the source said.
“School teachers won’t be able to go to the bank, hospital and shift workers, night shift, people at the abattoir...”
Another person expressed cynicism at the move which comes while the bank is undergoing a merger and re-brand.
“People’s First - what a load of ****,” said the person, who wished to remain anonymous.
Dale Page, who owns a shed in Oakey, said that he didn’t care what the Bank did, as he only uses cash - which he recommends people switch to.
“That’s fine - it doesn’t bother me,” he said.
“I hate banks - cash is the only way.”
If you would like to send feedback to Heritage Bank regarding the decision, email info@heritage.com.au
