How one local, community bank is supporting families at this time

Wollongong Community Bank branch of Bendigo Bank is in Fairy Meadow. With strong ties to the local community, the local team value the relationships and connection they have with families in the Illawarra.

We sat down with Business Development Manager Mark Tyson for a chat about the value of community and how important it is to unite during these challenging times. Mark has been part of the local community since 1991.

How important is it for your branch to help and support the local community?
The Wollongong Community Bank Branch of Bendigo Bank was borne from the need for banking support for our local community after most of the large banks closed their branches in Fairy Meadow.

Therefore, need and desire to support our local community is part of our DNA. In the fact, our original and ongoing mantra is “By the Community, for the Community”.

How does Wollongong Community Bank help and support the local community?
Our support for the community has been widespread and far-ranging. Examples include supporting our local junior surf lifesaving group, local school P&C’s, our local junior netball, One Door Mental Health organisation, the Homeless Hub and Wollongong Women’s Emergency Shelter to name just a few.

What’s on offer for families and how can our branch support families?
We have experts in the branch that can assist in getting families into their new or first home, specific bank accounts tailored to assist in saving or building savings, access to wealth advisers to assist families with building and protecting their wealth.

To support families during the current Coronavirus (COVID-19) time, we have a support package available. Whether you’re a homeowner, business owner, retiree, casual worker or a student, our friendly branch staff can help answer all your questions or queries and if needed our lenders can link up with you either in person or virtually to have conversations with you regarding your specific needs.

Do you offer any support or learning for children when opening their first bank account?
Our student accounts are fee-free student accounts, and our team can discuss these options with parents.

Do you think it’s important for children to learn from a young age how to manage money?
I believe it is vital that children learn from a young age what money is about and the ways that they can manage their money. We can assist with our fee-free bank accounts specifically designed to assist parents/guardians with the tools to assist with those valuable conversations.

Community Bank Wollongong provides banking services to the Illawarra. To find out how they can help you and your family today visit: www.bendigobank.com.au/branch/nsw/community-bank-wollongong.