ANZ Reopens in Solomon Islands

Document date:  Tue 13 May 2003
Published:  Tue 13 May 2003 18:37:49
Document No:  204254
Document part:  A
Market Flag:  N
Classification:  Other 

AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND BANKING GROUP       2003-05-13  ASX-SIGNAL-G

HOMEX - Melbourne                                                     

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ANZ today advised it will reopen its operations in the Solomon
Islands tomorrow following action by the Prime Minister's office, the
Police Service and the Central Bank to address the security
situation.

The advice follows ANZ's decision on Monday to suspend all operations
in the country after serious threats were made to the personal safety
of its staff and premises by activities of the Family Charitable
Fund.

ANZ General Manager Pacific Personal Banking Mr Rob Goudswaard said:
"We are now satisfied we can operate without threats to the safety of
staff or customers." 

"Management and staff are very much looking forward to opening our
branches for business again."

"We appreciate the patience staff and customers have shown over the
past two days and trust they understand why the banks have had to act
against threats and intimidation."

"ANZ would also like to thank the various groups and individuals in
the Solomon Islands who have spoken out in support of the ANZ's
actions to protect its staff, customers and premises," Mr Goudswaard
said.

ANZ's branches in Honiara, Panatina, Auki, Noro and Gizo will be open
as normal at 9.00am on Wednesday, 14 May.

For media enquiries contact:

Paul Edwards
Head of Group Media Relations
Tel: +61-3-9273 6955 or +61-409-655 550 (mobile)
Email: paul.edwards@anz.com