Older Australians make up over 15% of our population, which is projected to grow steadily over the coming decades. They bring knowledge, joy and diversity to our communities. We are committed to celebrating their roles in our communities and ensuring their financial wellbeing and safety.
We are working with organisations that represent older Australians such as COTA (SA) and Connect Groups WA.
Through partnerships, we are addressing issues that affect older people who live alone. We have continued our relationship with Meals on Wheels NSW who provide nutritious meals and social interaction for elderly and financially disadvantaged people living in their own homes. And we are proud to support Maroba Caring Communities as they strive to provide their residents with engaging and interactive programs and experiences.
This year we have developed a new policy and series of actions to ensure scammers do not target our customers. We have trained our branch and Customer Relationship Centre staff in scam awareness. They actively check that members are not the target of fraudulent activities or financial abuse during transactions.
To create conversations with older Australians who may prefer face to face banking, we keep scam awareness fliers and fridge magnets on branch counters. Some older Australians do not use the internet and may be unaware of current scams like Flubot, so our staff proactively talk to them about protecting themselves. We also add warning messages to bank statements and our internet banking, website and social channels.
