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National Australia Bank will offer account services through the Australia Post giroPost network from March next year. The initiative adds close to 2,800 outlets to the National's already extensive network of 965 retail branches and will make over the counter services more convenient and accessible, particularly for those living in remote areas or where there is no dedicated National branch outlet. National personal customers will be able to withdraw and deposit cash and cheques and make balance enquiries via Australia Post outlets at no additional cost. Mr Mike Pratt, the National's Chief Executive Officer, Australian Financial Services, welcomed the announcement, saying the availability of over counter services through Australia Post was ideal for those customers who prefer face to face banking or were unable to use electronic services. Although many of our customers now find it more convenient and faster to bank electronically, via ATMs, eftpos, telephone and the Internet, many others have difficulties accessing these services, so it's important that we continue to provide face to face banking. "Australia Post's vast network is also a good fit with our existing branch network and means the National's presence will return to many communities where we no longer have a branch or agency," Mr Pratt said. Mr Bob Ludlow, Deputy Chief Executive of Australia Post, said: "We are delighted the National's customers will have greater access to personal banking services through our post office network. "giroPost has revolutionalised banking convenience, widening the choice of banking services and bringing particular benefits to people in regional and rural areas." National customers will have access to their transaction accounts at any Australia Post outlet displaying the giroPost sign between 9am and 5pm weekdays and on weekends in selected locations. Customers will also be able to conveniently access other services available through Australia Post, such as bill payment. Issued: 13 October 2000 Further information: Majella Allen
Manager, Media Relations
Tel: (03) 8641 0936
Mobile: 0410 440 305.
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