Disaster-relief packages activated for at-risk customers
Queensland-based Suncorp Bank has advised that its disaster-relief packages for personal and business customers have been activated as Cyclone Alfred approaches the eastern seaboard.
Southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales residents are bunkering down in anticipation of the Category 2 cyclone, which at latest estimates is expected to hit the coast on late Friday or early Saturday.
Alongside other options, Suncorp Bank customers can defer scheduled loan repayments for an agreed period, activate short-term working capital, or tap additional finance to help with cash flow shortages.
“We want our customers who may be impacted by Tropical Cyclone Alfred to know that our team will be here to support them,” said Suncorp Bank chief executive Bruce Rush.
“We will continue to monitor the situation as it develops, so we can respond and support our customers and people in the coming days.”
Rush warned of disruptions to Suncorp Bank branches in the affected regions. “We urge customers to visit our website for regular updates,” he said.
Suncorp Bank’s parent company ANZ has also announced a number of relief packages, including short-term relief of home loans and waived fees for access term deposits early.
ANZ’s general manager, Queensland and Northern Territory, Jackie Auf der Maur said: “The anticipated cyclone threatens to impact homes, businesses, and infrastructure across south-east Queensland and northern New South Wales.
“Our customers' and colleagues’ safety is our top priority, and we urge them to stay vigilant and keep monitoring the situation as it unfolds.
“Given the likely impacts of Alfred, we wanted to provide our customers early notice of our relief measures, so that we offer the essential support and reprieve needed as they navigate this uncertain time.”
ANZ has closed all branches within the warning zone for this Thursday and Friday.
“We will continue to monitor the situation as it develops, so we can continue to respond and support our customers and staff in the coming days,” Auf der Maur said.
