Mayor celebrates Bank's long term commitment to Ipswich

Mayor Paul Pisasale joined Bendigo and Adelaide Bank staff today in officially opening the Bank's new Ipswich office.

The Bank is one of Ipswich's largest employers, with more than 270 of its staff working from Tower Central in Brisbane Street and a further 70 retail staff in its Bendigo Bank branches across Ipswich.

Managing Director Mike Hirst said today was a special day in the Bank's 156 year history.

"Our investment in a new home for our people in Ipswich is bigger than a building move. It's a symbol of our lasting commitment to Ipswich and Queensland," Mr Hirst said.

‘'We continue to be located in the heart of Ipswich as one of the town's largest employers, and moving into one of the city's premier offices is an exciting step forward for our staff, customers, partners and the City of Ipswich.

"We want the community to know that this state has played an important role in determining who we are and what we will become.

"We've been part of Queensland since the late 1800's and we plan to stay and grow and we hope our new home in Ipswich serves as a constant reminder," he said.

The Bank has taken out a long-term lease on Tower Central office tower, with staff enjoying an improved office environment since September.

Mr Hirst said the Bank works to create successful customers and sustainable communities – two themes which influenced the design of the new office.

"Our new Ipswich offices offer a modern and flexible work environment. With Tower Central only four years old, we believed that it was the right choice for our staff community, making it easier and more enjoyable for our people to do their work.

"Hassell architects, who designed the Bank's new Adelaide building, have re-designed some aspects of our new space in Ipswich, aligning the look and feel of our corporate sites and ensuring the best possible environment for staff."

Mr Hirst thanked the Bank's staff, customers, shareholders, partners and supporters, and encouraged those not yet banking with the local option to reconsider their choice.

"We've invested in this community, creating a stronger Ipswich for the future. We will continue to do this, but we could do more and faster, if more local people get behind us and bank with Bendigo Bank," he said.

"People have come to expect banks to focus on their own success, but we look to share value to create success for all.

"We give our customers everything they expect from a big bank, but also many things they don't. That makes us bigger than a bank," he said.

"Since 1998, our Bendigo Bank Community Bank^® network has returned more than $125 million to support communities right across Australia, with more than $12 million in grants given out in Queensland.

"I'm inviting everyone who can see the value in supporting the success of this community to join us in building the prosperity of Ipswich."