As the impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to grow across our communities, I wanted to provide you with an update on Queensland Country Bank's response to the situation. We understand that many people may be affected by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and we are doing all we can to support our staff, Members, family and friends during this time.

Assistance available to Members impacted by Coronavirus (COVID-19)


We have acted swiftly to make an Emergency Relief Package available for any Member impacted by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation. I encourage any Member who requires assistance to reach out to us as soon as possible to access the benefits of the package.

Learn the details of the Emergency Relief Package.

Access to your money


All our branches and our Contact Centre currently remain open for business. We will continue to monitor communications and directives from the Government, along with the health of our Member-facing staff and advise you of any changes to this situation as they evolve.

In addition to the personal contact you are used to receiving through our branch network and Contact Centres, we encourage Members to take advantage of the following methods of accessing your funds or transferring money between accounts:


· the national network of ATM and point-of-sale terminals;
· internet banking;
· our mobile banking app;
· phone banking.


Learn how you can access your money without visiting a branch.

Safety and security of our staff - health wise and financially


The health of our Member-facing staff is a key element in maintaining our ability to keep branches open and continue providing service to you. With this in mind, we ask all Members that choose to visit a branch to maintain a safe distance from staff and other Members during their transactions. Further, we strongly recommend that Members who are feeling unwell utilise the remote banking options detailed earlier rather than visiting their local branch.


We are conscious that our staff are Queensland Country Bank's most important asset, and we are taking steps to provide them with financial security in the event they personally are impacted by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation. I addressed all staff late last week with details of a new Coronavirus (COVID-19) Leave that will safeguard the income of any staff member directly impacted by the virus. I also advised staff that their jobs are secure and they will not be forced to take unpaid leave as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.


Our financial strength


Queensland Country Bank is in a very strong financial position and is well equipped to meet any challenges the current situation brings.


Two of the crucial indicators of a bank's safety and security are the amount of accumulated capital and liquid funds we hold. In Queensland Country's case, both these measures are well above the minimum levels required by our regulator, the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA).


I'd like to reinforce Queensland Country's ongoing commitment to our staff, Members and communities. We are here to support you all through the current situation and maintain business as usual as much as the current circumstances allow. Please feel free to contact us if you require any further information.

Regards,


Aaron Newman
Group CEO