Bankwest

Bankwest Sparks Fury by Closing All Branches in Western Australia

Customers are enraged as Bankwest, a CBA subsidiary, announces the closure of all 60 branches in WA, transitioning to digital-only banking by 2024.

Bankwest, a major regional Australian bank under the Commonwealth Bank umbrella, has incited fury among its customers by deciding to shut down all 60 of its branches across Western Australia. The move towards online banking has left many customers disgruntled, with the union boss labeling the branch closures as 'disgraceful.' Among the affected areas are Pilbara, with branches in Karratha, Port Hedland, and Newman facing closure or rebranding.

Bankwest's shift to a digital-only model by 2024 has prompted backlash, with customers expressing disappointment at the loss of in-person banking services. However, the Commonwealth Bank has vowed to support Bankwest's transition by investing in new roles and ensuring that customers in Western Australia can still perform everyday banking tasks seamlessly. Despite the closures, Bankwest reassures customers of continued support.

The decision to close all Bankwest branches signals a significant shift in the banking landscape, with traditional brick-and-mortar services giving way to digital convenience. The move reflects a broader trend in the industry towards online banking, emphasizing the importance of adapting to changing customer preferences.

As Bankwest closes its physical branches to embrace digital transformation, it marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of banking services in Western Australia. The transition to a fully digital bank by 2024 highlights the need for innovation and flexibility in meeting customer demands, setting a precedent for the future of banking in the region.