ANZ has announced a financial relief package for customers impacted by the ongoing bushfires in areas northeast of Perth. The fires have already resulted in the destruction of dozens of homes.
While ensuring people's safety remains the primary concern, ANZ is urging affected customers to reach out when feasible to discuss accessing the financial relief measures available. These measures include pausing payments for up to three months on home loans, credit cards, personal loans, and certain business loans. However, interest may still accrue during this period. Additional support includes temporary interest rate reductions for those experiencing severe financial distress and waiving fees for restructuring business loans or accessing term deposits early.
Kathleen Jahour, ANZ General Manager Western Australia, stated: “These fires have already destroyed dozens of homes and safety remains the number one priority for those in the path of these fires, including the brave firefighters who put so much on the line to protect us." She added that "at the appropriate time, when people shift their focus to recovering and rebuilding, we hope these relief measures help our customers as they deal with this devastating experience.”
ANZ encourages affected customers in disaster-declared areas to visit local branches if possible or contact their relationship manager regarding their business or personal circumstances. Customers can also reach ANZ’s dedicated financial hardship team at 1800 149 549 or through anz.com.au/support/natural-disaster-support/.
Additionally, customers with ANZ Home and Contents Insurance might qualify for emergency funds and temporary accommodation. To file an insurance claim, they can call 13 16 14 or visit anz.com/insuranceclaims.