Westpac reverses decision to close eight regional branches as senate inquiry continues

Westpac has scrapped plans to shut a number of branches across regional Australia, months after it put the closures on hold pending the outcome of a senate inquiry into banking services. Key points: Eight regional Westpac branches that were set to close will remain open indefinitely Nationals MP Anne Webster has urged other banks operating in regional areas to follow Westpac's example A senate inquiry is conducting hearings into the impacts of bank closures on regional towns "After further discussions with customers and employees, we've decided to keep the Westpac Robinvale branch open," a spokesperson said. Westpac's decision in February to terminate in-person banking in the eight regional communities, most with already limited services, angered customers and was heavily criticised by unions and politicians. "Back in February, days after the senate inquiry was announced, Westpac said 20 branches would close," she said.