Westpac to assist cyclone victims in Nadi

 WESTPAC says it will commit AUD$100,000 (FJD$153,589), (K 214,786) to the Fiji Red Cross to support people in areas affected by Cyclone Winston. 

Westpac in a statement said this financial assistance would enable the Red Cross to respond quickly to immediate needs such as food and clean water as well as the longer-term rebuilding and recovery of areas hit by the cyclone. 

Greg Pawson, the regional head of South Asia and Pacific, said: “At Westpac, we have a long history of helping communities across the Pacific in times of need.  “The impact of this natural disaster is without precedent in Fiji and as a major corporation in the country, Westpac is committed to supporting the local community our customers and employees through this period.” 

“Westpac will waive electronic transfer fee for customers wanting to send emergency funds to their families in Fiji. It has activated its disaster relief package. 

“Customers wishing to access the disaster relief package should contact Westpac relationship manager or branch staff to determine the most appropriate and responsible solution for their circumstances. 

“Westpac branches around Fiji are currently open for restricted trading hours to assist customers in accessing cash.

“We are working with customers to service other payable and receivable needs including telegraphic transfers.” Details of the disaster relief package included: 

• Loan repayments can be suspended for up to three months;
• Customers wishing to purchase replacement goods may apply for a personal loan;
• Affected customers may also re-finance existing loans over a fresh maximum loan term – normal underwriting standards apply.Normal establishment fee will be waived on all loans under this package;

• Deferral of business loan repayments for a period of up to three months on customers’ request;
• Deferral of repayments for business overdrafts for three months.