Safe custody
Westpac has entered into an agreement to transition its Safe Custody vault services to Guardian Vaults, a specialist high‑security vault provider.
The transition will occur progressively throughout 2026, and customers will continue to have secure access to their items.
As part of the transition, customers may see changes to signage or branding at Safe Custody locations as operations transition to Guardian Vaults.
When a customer receives a letter from Westpac, they should be asked to read it carefully, as it outlines the timing of the transition at the location of their safe custody and the actions required.
Customers will be asked to contact the branch to schedule an appointment to access their Safe Custody box and to close the arrangement. Customers can then relate to Guardian Vaults to support their ongoing safe custody needs.
Frequently asked questions
Westpac will transition operation of its Safe Custody vault services to Guardian Vaults. Over time, these services will no longer be operated by Westpac.
This change enables Westpac to focus on its core banking services, while ensuring Safe Custody services are delivered by a provider that specialises in secure vault operations.
Guardian Vaults is a specialist provider of high-security vault and Safe Custody services, operating secure facilities designed for the storage and protection of valuable items and documents.
The transition applies to:
- Melbourne – 360 Collins Street
- Sydney – 341 George Street
- Perth – 109 St Georges Terrace
- Adelaide – 97 King William Street
- Brisbane – 260 Queen Street
Each stage of transition will occur progressively by vault location later in 2026 as part of the broader implementation program. Customers will receive communication ahead of their location’s transition date with details of the required actions and timing.
Times to be confirmed:
- Melbourne – expected April to June 2026
- Sydney – expected May to November 2026
- Perth – expected July to September 2026
- Adelaide – expected July to October 2026
- Brisbane – expected August to September 2026
Yes. Customers will continue to have secure access during the transition period.
No. Guardian will take over operation of existing vaults.
As part of the transition, existing Safe Custody arrangements with Westpac/BankSA will be closed. Customers can choose to either:
- Close their current arrangement and remove their items, or
- Set up a new Safe Custody arrangement directly with Guardian Vaults to continue using the service.
Further details about the steps required and the timing for each location will be provided directly to customers.
Customers who choose to set up an arrangement with Guardian at the same location will retain their existing box location under the Guardian terms and conditions of service.
As part of the agreement with Guardian, and with your consent, Guardian will retain your current existing lease fee and key deposits will transfer. The current annual storage fee will remain unchanged for the first renewal period. Guardian will provide details of any future pricing directly.
To support customers during the transition, any customer wishing to access their box or close their arrangement will be required to contact their branch to schedule an appointment. This ensures appropriate support is available at the time of their visit.
As part of the transition, all existing Safe Custody arrangements with Westpac/BankSA will be closed.
Customers who do not wish to continue will be provided with clear instructions on how to access their Safe Custody box and remove their items before closure.
Customers who wish to continue using Safe Custody services will need to set up a new arrangement directly with Guardian Vaults. Westpac/BankSA vault team members are available to assist customers during the closure of their existing arrangement.
Westpac will contact affected customers directly with information regarding timing, access arrangements and next steps.
If you wish to move your Safe Custody arrangement earlier than the scheduled transition, please contact the branch or vault team where your Safe Custody box is located to discuss your options. Any new arrangement with Guardian Vaults will be subject to Guardian’s terms and conditions.
Yes. Due to high customer interest, customers are strongly encouraged to book an appointment before visiting.
Appointments help reduce waiting times and ensue customers receive timely service. Customers without an appointment may experience a wait before they can be served.