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Westpac has donated $50,000 to the Victorian government’s fund for families affected by the incident in Bourke Street, in which five people were killed and more than 30 injured.
On 20 January 2017, a man drove his car into crowds at Melbourne’s Bourke Street mall area, killing five people and injuring 32 others.
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The 26-year-old man, who has since been identified as James Gargasoulas, 26, has been charged with five counts of murder, with other charges pending. He has been remanded to appear in court in August.
Following the attack, the Victorian government set up The Bourke Street Fund to provide support to those affected, particularly those who were injured or who witnessed the crash. The government pledged an initial $100,000 to the fund.
The money raised will help cover funeral costs, ambulance and hospital care costs, medication, physiotherapy, travel to and from medical appointments, as well as loss of wages, amongst other expenses.
An independent panel will guide decisions about the spending and allocation of the fund.
Since the fund was set up, it has raised more than $882,000, $50,000 of which came from major bank Westpac.
The chief executive of Bank of Melbourne and COO of Westpac Consumer Bank, Scott Tanner, said: "On behalf of the team at Westpac, I’d like to extend our heartfelt sympathy to everyone affected by this senseless act.
“This is no doubt an incredibly difficult time for the families and friends of the victims and we hope these funds will help to rebuild lives after such devastating loss.
“This tragedy has had an extensive impact on the community and we would also like our customers to know that we are here to support them. Anyone requiring assistance or advice following this event can contact us so we can discuss their circumstances and work out the best way to help.”
Westpac Group is also encouraging its employees to give generously to the Bourke Street Fund, and will match any employee donations through its Matching Gifts program.
Customers and members of the public can donate at Westpac branches or online by visiting: www.vic.gov.au/bourkestreet.html
Donations can also be made via mobile or online banking to the following accounts, set up by Westpac, for The Victorian government:
Transfers made within Australia:
Name of account: Bourke Street Fund
BSB: 033 009
Account Number: 668251
International transfers
Name of account: Bourke Street Fund
BSB: 033 009
Account Number: 668251
Swift code: WPACAU2S
Anyone seeking more information on how to donate can call 1800 226 226.
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