Australia’s ANZ bank will extend Saturday trading hours at 27 branches nationwide starting June 27, aiming to provide greater access to certain banking services outside regular weekday hours. The initiative targets locations with high customer demand, including six branches in New South Wales such as Bankstown, Eastgardens, Rouse Hill, and Macarthur Square.

While the branches will be open on Saturdays to offer services related to home loans, relationship banking, and specialist advice, traditional over-the-counter transactions like deposits and withdrawals will not be available. This shift focuses on consultations and support rather than routine banking operations.

Pedro Redia, ANZ Australia’s Retail group executive, emphasized that the expanded hours are designed to accommodate customers whose schedules limit weekday visits. “For many customers, including young professionals, families and small business owners, having a local branch open on a Saturday makes a big difference,” he said, highlighting the bank’s intent to align its services more closely with customers’ lifestyles.

The move reflects growing demand for flexible banking options, particularly from individuals and businesses needing personalized assistance. By extending in-branch availability to weekends for certain services, ANZ aims to offer more convenience without the pressures often associated with busy weekdays.