Question Time AU

General Debate

Banking and Financial Services

House of Representatives · Tuesday 7 October 2025

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

The member for Banks raised concerns regarding the scheduled closure of the Revesby post office by Australia Post, arguing it would severely impact local residents, particularly older Australians who rely on in-person banking services. Zhi Soon highlighted a wider trend of bank branch closures across the electorate, noting that many suburbs have lost all physical banking access. The member cited community petitions and previous inquiries to argue that these closures cause financial exclusion and harm local economies. The speech called for a reversal of the closure decision and urged service providers to consider their social licence and the need for face-to-face transaction options.

Outcome

The member concluded the speech without a recorded vote or formal motion result.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Zhi Soon (Banks) (Australian Labor Party) ALP

Zhi Soon argued that the planned closure of the Revesby post office was a mistake, given its central location and role as a primary access point for in-person banking via Bank@Post. The member noted that the area is experiencing population growth, necessitating more services rather than fewer. Zhi Soon highlighted that older residents, who are less comfortable with online banking and vulnerable to scams, disproportionately rely on these physical services. The member stated that a petition had gathered over 2,300 signatures in support of retaining the post office. Zhi Soon called on Australia Post to reverse the decision and engage with the community to preserve essential face-to-face services.