Barunga West Council has partnered with the Armaguard Group to bring the new service to the community, following a demand for 24/7 ATM access in the region.
Armaguard, the country's largest independent ATM network, will operate, cash and service the machine at its own expense. The group has 16 partners that allow fee-free transactions on its network. The installation of the new ATM comes in response to the removal of more than 6,000 bank-owned ATMs across Australia, with a 34 per cent reduction in the number of ATMs in regional areas, according to Armaguard.
Maree Wauchope, CEO of Barunga West Council, said the new ATM would provide residents with 24/7 access to their money and attract visitors to the town.
“The new ATM will provide residents with a 24/7 option of accessing their money and offer a drawcard for visitors to the town to conveniently access their cash and spend additional time within the town supporting local businesses,” Ms Wauchope said.
The ATM will be located on the exterior of the Council office building in Port Broughton and will provide all-hours convenience for people to access their cash. The machine will be monitored by Armaguard and restocked as needed. Customers can check their bank balance and withdraw up to their daily card cash limit. However, it is important to note that this machine only dispenses cash and does not allow for deposits.
In case of any issues, customers can contact their financial institution or the 1300-number listed on the front of the machine to speak to Armaguard directly.
Council is not responsible for the machine, and only Armaguard has access to it.
“With this new addition, Port Broughton now has an all-hours ATM, providing residents and visitors with easy access to their cash,” Ms Wauchope said.