Community & Business
15 June, 2026
Westpac is on its way!
Westpac is expanding its services in more regional locations after announcing on Monday that it will launch its Community Banking Service in Pittsworth which includes regular, in-person banking support every fortnight.
Westpac announced it would extend the service to five other regional towns also - Clifton, Malanda, Ravenshoe, Clermont and Laidley.
Federal Member for Groom, Garth Hamilton has welcomed Westpac’s announcement, describing it as a positive step for residents, businesses and farmers who rely on access to face-to-face banking.
“I have fought every bank closure and been very critical of all banks, big and small, when they abandon regional communities,” Mr Hamilton said.
“I strongly encourage other banks take note, there is a future in these towns, and I hope this service can be further expanded to include communities such as Oakey.
“While more people are banking online, many residents, small businesses, farmers and community organisations still rely on in-person banking services to manage their finances.
“The return of community banking services in Pittsworth is a welcome step that will help ensure people can access the support they need close to home,” Mr Hamilton said.
This Westpac expansion follows strong early feedback from a pilot of the service in regional New South Wales over the past few months.
The Community Banking Service provides regular, in-person banking support in regional towns with Westpac bankers visiting fortnightly, giving customers direct, face-to-face access to banking services and support to complement digital banking options.
Mr Hamilton said the announcement reflected the strong advocacy of residents and community leaders who have consistently highlighted the importance of maintaining banking services in regional areas.
“Pittsworth is a vibrant community that deserves access to the same essential services as those living in larger centres,” Mr Hamilton said.
“I want to thank everyone who has fought bank closures alongside me, advocated for improved banking access across the Darling Downs, and I acknowledge Westpac for listening to the community.”
Mr Hamilton said regional banking remained an important issue.
“Regional communities contribute enormously to Australia’s economy, particularly through agriculture and small business, and access to banking services plays a critical role in supporting that success,” he said.
“I will continue advocating for practical measures that improve access to essential services across Groom and ensure regional communities remain strong, connected and prosperous.”
Mr Hamilton said regional communities should not be left behind as banking services continue to evolve.
He has been in contact with Westpac CEO Anthony Miller, who told Mr Hamilton he was open to further discussion about bringing Westpac’s services to Oakey.
According to Mr Miller, regional Queensland is central to the country’s growth and resilience.
“A one-size-fits-all model doesn’t always work, particularly across such diverse regional communities,” Mr Miller said.
“The Community Banking Service is about being present in these regions, understanding local conditions and supporting everyday decisions, whether that’s for households or businesses.
“While most banking is now done digitally, people still like face-to-face service.
“The challenge and the opportunity we have is finding the right balance between in person and digital, so customers get the service they need in a way that makes sense for them,” he said.
A spokesperson for the Pittsworth District Alliance welcomed the recent announcement by Westpac.
“The Alliance sees the announcement as a positive outcome for Pittsworth, reflecting the importance of ensuring regional communities continue to have access to face-to-face services alongside digital banking options.
“For many local people, including primary producers, small business owners, families and community groups, personal banking support remains an important part of long-term financial decision-making.
“It is encouraging to see investment that recognises the needs of Pittsworth and district,” the spokesperson said.
While it’s not the return of full banking services to the town, it will provide the citizens, businesses and organisations of Pittsworth with the opportunity to conduct face-to-face banking every fortnight.
