LAST week, a sign was placed on the only ATM in Marysville, operated by the Upwey Community Bank, stating that the ATM would be closing soon, and that the nearest branch and ATM will be located in Healesville. Bendigo Bank’s media team were contacted for comment. They advised that at this stage Bendigo Bank will not be providing any comments regarding the closure of the ATM beyond the information already displayed at the site. Professionals Marysville said, “Professionals Murrindindi would like to reiterate that the removal of the ATM was a decision made by The Bendigo Bank.” Dr Helen Haines, Independent Federal Member for Indi said, “I’ve sought an immediate briefing from Bendigo Bank about the reported closure of its Marysville ATM. “Regional communities too often feel like they’re the last to get services and the first to lose them. Banking is an essential service, yet access is becoming harder as branches and ATMs disappear. “That’s why I’ve been pushing for the government to recognise banking as an essential service and guarantee reasonable access to banking, before more regional towns lose the last of their services.” Dr Haines has repeatedly raised issues around banking with Treasurer Jim Chalmers, most recently during Question Time in June, including why the government had not yet responded to the Senate inquiry into bank closures. “Regional communities too often feel like they’re the last to get services and the first to lose them, and that is exactly what we are seeing with bank closures,” Dr Haines said. The government response to the report was released in July. In the response, the government noted the recommendation “That the Australian Government adopt a policy recognising access to financial services as an essential service. To this end, it should commit to guaranteeing reasonable access to cash and financial services for all Australians.” The response stated, “On February 11, 2025, the Treasurer announced that the government had secured a package of commitments from the banks to ensure banking services remain available in regional Australia. “The commitments include a major bank moratorium on regional branch closures until July 2027 as well as new and updated Bank@Post agreements with Australia Post. “Westpac has subsequently announced an extension of its moratorium to 2030. “The government is continuing to work with regulators, industry and communities to ensure our regions have access to fit-for purpose and sustainable banking services over the long term.” They did not support the recommendation that the government investigate the feasibility of establishing a publicly-owned bank. Murrindindi Shire Council stated, “While council has not received formal confirmation that the ATM in Marysville will be removed, any loss of banking services would be concerning for the Marysville and wider Triangle community. “Access to cash remains important for many residents, visitors and local businesses, particularly in rural communities where travel distances, transport options and telecommunications connectivity can make alternative arrangements more difficult. “Council has previously raised concerns about the ongoing withdrawal of banking and other essential services from rural areas. “Earlier this year, council advocated strongly following the closure of the Community Bank Kinglake branch, highlighting the disproportionate impact service reductions can have on rural communities. “If the reported removal proceeds, it would leave Marysville and the Triangle area with limited access to in-person banking services and cash withdrawal facilities. “Council encourages Community Bank Upwey and District to carefully consider the needs of the local community and to engage directly with residents and businesses before making any final decision. “Council will seek further information regarding the reported change and any implications for the community. “Questions regarding the operation of the ATM, any proposed changes and the reasons for those changes should be directed to Community Bank Upwey and District.”
