Citizens Party Calls for Government Action
SYDNEY — Rising fuel prices and shortages have exacerbated the impact of bank branch closures in regional Australia, according to the Citizens Party. The party is urging the Albanese government to implement recommendations from the Canavan report, which addresses this ongoing crisis.
Residents in regional areas face long drives to access banking services due to widespread branch closures. The fuel crisis has made these journeys even more challenging, with towns like Robinvale completely running out of fuel, leaving residents unable to travel for banking needs.
Regional Communities Struggle with Access
According to Citizens Party National Chairman Robert Barwick, the situation in regional Australia is becoming a dire emergency. He highlights that some towns, such as Coober Pedy, require a 540-kilometre trip to the nearest bank, while others like Carnamah in WA face a 240-kilometre journey.
Barwick calls for the establishment of a government bank operating through Australia’s post offices to ensure face-to-face banking services. He emphasises that successive governments have prioritised short-term profits over the long-term needs of communities, leading to the current crisis.
The Citizens Party is also urging Senator Matt Canavan to leverage his position as Nationals leader to advocate for the report’s recommendations. Barwick notes that Canavan’s leadership during the Senate inquiry was pivotal, and his continued support is crucial for addressing the issue.
In addition, the ongoing fuel crisis is affecting other sectors in these communities, including agriculture and small businesses, further highlighting the need for immediate government intervention. The lack of accessible banking services also impacts the elderly and those without digital literacy, reinforcing the urgency of the situation. As the Citizens Party continues to call for action, the focus remains on sustainable, long-term solutions to restore essential services in regional Australia.
Source: newshub.medianet.com.au
Last updated: 1 April 2026, 10:29 am
