We have been closely monitoring the unprecedented number of bushfires across New South Wales and Queensland. We appreciate this can be an upsetting and overwhelming time, so that’s why we are letting our customers know that there is help available for their banking, if they need it.

Whilst every customer’s circumstances are considered on an individual basis, the bushfire relief package may include:

• Redraw fee free from an applicable home loan to access funds*
• Access funds in term deposits fee free without impacting the interest rate payable
• Establishment fees waived on new personal loan applications for a purpose related to the bushfires for up to 3 months
• Through our financial hardship assistance options, further discussion can be had regarding loan repayments

Customers who have purchased insurance through Summerland and need to make a claim are advised to notify our insurance partner, CGU, as soon as possible by calling the claims line on 13 24 80.

If you would like to talk to us about the bushfire relief options available to you, please don’t hesitate to get in touch by either:

• Giving us a call on 1300 802 222
• Leaving us a message
• Dropping in to your nearest branch

We are continuing to think of all our customers and our communities that have been affected during this difficult time. Further information about bushfire preparation and a survival plan can be found here.

Below are further important contacts to be aware of, should you need to get in touch with one of them:

NSW Government Service contacts

Business Connect – This is a free mobile advisory service for small businesses.

Dispute Resolution Service – This offers a confidential and free dispute resolution service to help small businesses needing assistance to work through disputes with other businesses and government.

Insurance Council of Australia – They can assist policy holders with determining which insurer they are with plus any general inquiries about the claims process.

Service NSW – They will replace certificates and drivers licences at no cost to those affected by natural disasters.

Motor Vehicle Stamp Duty Relief – If your car has been written off following a natural disaster could be eligible for a stamp duty refund on a replacement vehicle.

Fair Trading – For those looking to negotiate repayments with their lender or those people in financial hardship. They also provide advice with fair and ethical practices for businesses.

Local Land Services – They provide help with livestock and other animals during natural disasters.

NSW Rural Assistance Authority – Those affected can access disaster relief low interest loans and transport subsidies.

Energy and Water Ombudsman – They provide a free, fair and independent dispute resolution service for electricity, gas and water customers in NSW.

Hardship Cases – Anyone experiencing any form of long term or temporary hardship following natural disasters are asked to contact their retail provider to discuss payment options as soon as possible.

Housing NSW – They offer assistance in housing applications and bond assistance through programs such as Tenancy Assist, Rent Start, and Mortgage Assistance Scheme.

Law Access NSW – Receive free legal advice. Legal Aid NSW is another option that helps people with their legal problems.

Communities and Justice – There are options available to help, protect and care for children and young people plus support their families through the Department of Family and Community Services.

Australian Government Services

Australian Taxation Office – They can assist you if you’re experiencing difficulties meeting your tax obligations.

The Australian Government Disaster Recovery Allowance – This is a short-term payment that is available to eligible Australian citizens whose income has been directly impacted by a declared or widespread disaster.

Support lines and other services

Financial Counselling Australia – This is free, independent and confidential support for those in financial difficulty.

Financial Rights Legal Centre – Advice and support is available for consumers in financial distress

Mensline – Free support and counselling for men with relationship and emotional concerns.

Lifeline – Crisis support and suicide prevention

Disaster Welfare Services – As part of the Office of Emergency Management

Australian Red Cross – Humanitarian aid and community services

Salvation Army – Giving hope where it’s needed most

*To avoid any fees being incurred through any redraw online, please get in touch with us over the phone or in branch