The Finance Sector Union of Australia has condemned the Commonwealth Bank (CBA) following its decision to close of four branches during a global pandemic in which thousands of Australians are losing their jobs.
CBA has told customers and staff that branches at Erina (Fountain Plaza) in NSW, St Agnes, SA and Manly West, Queensland.
FSU National Assistant Secretary Nathan Rees said the bank’s decision was a slap in the face for the local community and local businesses.
“This heartless act is totally at odds with what the Australian community expects from a major bank right now,” Mr Rees said.
“This is a bad decision for the local community and sends a broader message to CBA staff that their employment is under threat,” he said.
“Banking is an essential service and that’s why banks have been propped up with taxpayer funds in previous crises.”
“As one of the largest faces of corporate Australia, the Commonwealth Bank should understand everyone needs to work together instead of shutting down branches while the community is trying to manage a pandemic.”
“Branch closures are a slap in the face for the community and local businesses struggling to stay afloat.”
“Big banks have a responsibility to the broader community and they should not be doing anything that could add more workers to the queues outside Centrelink offices.”
