Westpac commits $70,000 to support Cyclone Harold recovery

Westpac has announced it will commit AU$50,000 (FJ$72,342.54) to the Fiji Red Cross to support people and communities affected by Tropical Cyclone Harold. This financial assistance will enable the Red Cross to respond quickly to immediate needs such as food and shelter, as well as the longer-term rebuilding and recovery of areas hit by Tropical Cyclone Harold.

“At Westpac, we have a long history of helping people and communities across Fiji, in good times and during challenging times,” said Westpac’s general manager for Asia-Pacific, Michael Correa.

“We are always conscious of the important role Westpac plays in the Fiji economy, as a strong A+ rated Australian bank with deep history and connections locally – but more so now that the people and economy of Fiji are being significantly impacted due to the COVID-19 situation coupled with a natural disaster,” Mr Correa said.

“I am pleased that we are able to help Fiji at this time of need, during what is a trying time globally.” The donation follows the announcement of Westpac’s enhanced customer assistance package to help businesses and individuals experiencing hardship as a result of

COVID-19.

“Since the announcement of the Westpac COVID-19 customer assistance package, and following Cyclone Harold, we have received a significant number of requests and enquiries from both business and home loan customers,” said Westpac Fiji’s chief executive, Kip Hanna. “Our message to customers is to reach out early if they start to experience financial distress or to worry about making loan payments. We are here to help.”

Customers can visit www.westpac. fj, call Westpac’s COVID helpline on 3217700 or email: fiJICOvID19HELP@ westpac.com for enquiries on Westpac’s customer assistance.