Coolamon Shire Council has confirmed its strong support for the Ganmain community in retaining access to banking services, following advice that both Beyond Bank and the Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS) will not renew their lease at the Ganmain Rural Transaction Centre (RTC) from July 2026.

Beyond Bank has advised Council that it will cease operating from the RTC but will continue to maintain an ATM in Ganmain, renting wall space at $100 per week.

The bank has also informed customers that it will consolidate its operations into a new Coolamon shopfront in Cowabbie Street, where it will continue to offer five days of face to face banking.

Council noted that Beyond Bank’s presence in Ganmain has evolved over time, beginning as Wagga Mutual Credit Union before a series of amalgamations.

Cr David McCann said that while Beyond Bank must make its own commercial decisions, it should remain mindful of its community based identity and the importance of maintaining accessible, in person services.

“Council’s position is clear we want five days of face to face banking available within the Coolamon Shire,” Cr McCann said.

“Council and the community have supported local banking in Ganmain for decades, including subsidised rent and financial assistance to help establish services after the withdrawal of the major banks.”

Beyond Bank has reiterated its commitment to the shire through sponsorships and its Community Reward Program, stating that the consolidation is driven by safety, access and financial considerations.

The RFCS, which originated in Ganmain under council administration before becoming a statewide, federally funded service, has also confirmed it will vacate the RTC.

While most RFCS client work occurs off site, its presence in Ganmain has helped support Beyond Bank’s staffing and workplace safety requirements.

The Ganmain Guardian will become the sole remaining tenant in the RTC.

Council understands that the Advance Ganmain committee has written to Beyond Bank seeking clarification on the future of banking access in the town.

Council will continue to advocate strongly to ensure that Ganmain and the wider shire retain reliable, face to face banking services.