Bendigo and Adelaide Bank launches cyclone and flood appeal

Bendigo and Adelaide Bank has joined forces with the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) to launch the Cyclone Debbie Recovery Fund Appeal.

Bendigo Bank Head of Consumer Banking Nick Carter said the appeal aims to raise funds to support the medium term to long-term needs of cyclone and flood-affected communities across Queensland and northern New South Wales, and assist communities to rebuild.

“Natural disasters have serious impacts on people, their properties and livelihoods, and communities, and we want to provide as much support as we can to our affected customers in Queensland and northern New South Wales.”

“Our thoughts are with all those affected,” he said.

FRRR’s CEO, Natalie Egleton, says that disasters have a long-lasting impact and communities need support long after the focus has moved on to the next event.

“That’s why we start distributing grants 12-18 months after a disaster. This gives communities the time they need to conduct adequate research and planning to ensure that social and physical infrastructure is appropriate, sustainable and meets the future needs of the community,” Ms Egleton said.

“In small communities, many of the local community groups don’t have DGR status, so they don’t receive funding from other sources. Contributing to FRRR’s Fund ensures that the money really get to grassroots groups that need support.”

Donations to the Cyclone Debbie Recovery Fund Appeal can be made at any Bendigo Bank branch or online via the FRRR’s website. Donations of $2 or more are tax deductible - www.frrr.org.au/donate

Last week, Bendigo and Adelaide Bank announced a relief package for customers affected by Cyclone Debbie.

The key features of the Natural Disaster Assistance Package include;

• Home Loan and Business Loan customers can apply for relief on loans for up to three months
• Credit card customers can apply for an emergency credit card limit increase
• Discounted interest rates on new personal loans taken out by existing Bendigo Bank customers
• Waiver of interest rate reduction for early withdrawals on term deposits prior to maturity
• No loan break costs for customers with a fixed rate who use an insurance payment to pay out their 
  loan
• Existing customers with home and contents insured through CGU Insurance may be able to claim 
  for emergency funds and temporary accommodation costs

Affected Bendigo Bank customers are advised to speak with their local Branch Manager, Business Banking Manager or contact Mortgage Help Centre on 1300 652 146 regarding financial hardship and applying for assistance.

The Bank’s agribusiness specialist, Rural Bank offers a range of disaster assistance measures and is working with impacted farming customers to understand their individual circumstances and provide the most effective means of support as they take the first steps towards recovery. If affected customers are in a position to do so, they can contact their local Relationship Manager directly or by phoning Rural Bank on 1300 660 115.

Please monitor the Bendigo Bank website for up to date information.