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22 May 2008

Westpac launches China earthquake disaster appeal with $100K donation

Westpac today announced it would donate $100,000 to Oxfam's appeal for the victims of the recent earthquake in China.

Westpac Chief Executive, Gail Kelly, presented a cheque to Mr Zhang Junsai, Chinese Ambassador to Australia at a morning tea for customers at Westpac's Sydney headquarters today.

Mrs Kelly said the donation launched Westpac's fundraising campaign for the victims of the earthquake.

"Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the disastrous earthquake in China," Mrs Kelly said.

"We are pleased to assist Oxfam with their important fundraising appeal. This donation will go towards relief, rehabilitation and restoration of livelihoods in China.

Mrs Kelly said Westpac encouraged its employees and the public to contribute to Oxfam's appeal.

"Donations to the appeal can be made at any Westpac branch and all employee donations are matched dollar for dollar by the bank through our Matching Gifts program," Mrs Kelly said.

Louise Redmond, Deputy Chair of the Board, Oxfam Australia said the disaster was the largest earthquake in China for more than thirty years.

"Oxfam has relief teams working in Sichuan and Gansu provinces, where they have been working alongside the government distributing emergency supplies," Ms Redmond said.

"It will take months, if not years for the people in the affected area to recover and rebuild their lives."

Locally, Westpac's Shanghai branch has donated RMB 50,000 (AUD$7,500) to the Red Cross, China. They have also invited employees in Asia to make a donation.

In Australia, Westpac has well-established links with the local Chinese community through its Migrant and Multicultural Banking team and this year also contributed to the Chinese Snow Storm Relief fund.

To make a donation:

• donate by phone on 1800 034 034
• donate online at Oxfam
• or at any Westpac branch