MURRINDINDI: Shire concern over Kinglake bank closure
Murrindindi Shire Council has expressed deep concern about the decision to close the Community Bank Kinglake branch in two months’ time.
The Council warns that the clousre risks undermining bushfire recovery and will leave the community without a critical local service.
The branch will close on Friday, June 5, forcing residents to travel around 25 kilometres to access the nearest full-service bank in Hurstbridge.
Cr Sandice McAulay said the closure comes at the worst possible time, as communities continue to rebuild following the January bushfires.
“This decision lands right in the middle of recovery,” Cr McAulay said.
“We are working with residents rebuilding their homes, farmers restoring their properties, and small businesses trying to stay afloat. Access to local banking is part of that recovery.”
Cr McAulay said banks had seen firsthand the need for local presence after the fires.
“In the days following the bushfires, banks came into our communities to provide support. They saw the importance of face-to-face services during times of crisis,” she said.
“But recovery does not end after the first few weeks. Our communities need ongoing support.”
“Kinglake will now be left without a bank. Alexandra does not have one. The only full-service bank branch remaining in the Shire is the Bendigo Bank in Yea,” she said.