The Childers ANZ Bank branch at 52 Churchill Street will close on 24 February 2021 and the bank says staff will be redeployed where possible.
Bundaberg Region Mayor Jack Dempsey said he was disappointed to hear the news.
“Banking services are vital in regional communities,” he said.
“Many banks are changing their business models to online service delivery but there's always a need for face-to-face interaction.
“The Childers area is growing and I hope others might see an opportunity to gain more business.
“Losing any jobs in Childers is a blow to the community.”
In a letter to stakeholders, the bank said its decision was made after a continued decline in customer traffic and a rising uptake of digital banking channels.
“The movement to digital and online services is occurring across industries with Government agencies, such as the Australian Tax Office and Medicare, as well as many other businesses, moving to online payments and banking,” ANZ said.
“Customers’ accounts that were at the Childers ANZ branch will now be located at Bundaberg.
“For our business customers we have relationship bankers that will continue to work closely with them.
“We also have mobile lenders to help customers with their home loan needs where it is most convenient for them.”
ANZ said every effort was being made to offer staff redeployment opportunities within the bank, particularly with unprecedented demand on call centres.
A “customer care” team has been established to help with this change, call 1800 841 543.
