The decision comes after a review of the branch’s ‘footprint’, which indicated there had been “fewer and fewer transactions in branch as customers embrace alternative banking channels”. 

As a result, the bank will close its doors on November 25.

One regular bank user said they were disappointed by the decision.

“They see small communities as pesky – it makes me so sad that the world is so greedy,” they said. 

“This is definitely not thinking of our community in Macksville – they are just looking after their shareholders, not the people who established them.”

Some asked if it was possible to have the decision reversed, while others were concerned if either of the other two banks in the town would follow suit.

Even Federal Member for Cowper, Luke Hartsuyker, has weighed in on the closure.

“I’ve received numerous representations from residents, business owners and the local Chamber of Commerce who are outraged by this move,” Mr Hartsuyker said.

“Macksville is the centre of business activity for many surrounding townships; it’s also a progressive centre with a growing industrial area, new Catholic school and an aging population.

“I don’t think it’s a logical decision for the Commonwealth to pull out of Macksville at a time when the area has a bright future and one that requires institutions such as the Commonwealth Bank present to support the local economy.”

In a letter to the Commonwealth Bank, Mr Hartsuyker urged the bank rethink.

However a Commonwealth Bank spokesperson said the decision was final and they had considered a “range of factors to ensure it is in line with a balance of community expectations, customer preferences and business priorities”. 

“Our team in Macksville is committed to ensuring the transition is as smooth as possible for customers,” the spokesperson said.

“We will work with customers to demonstrate alternative ways to bank, including services available online, through mobile and via phone in addition to services offered by the Macksville Australia Post Office. 

‘The Australia Post outlet will be available for customers to complete personal and business banking transactions such as withdrawals, deposits and bill payments during normal business hours. This includes passbook accounts.

“In addition, customers can access accounts 24 hours a day through NetBank, the CommBank app or phone on 132-221.”

The bank is working to retain an ATM presence in the town.

“We know that increasingly customers want to bank with us at a time and place that is convenient for them, and we continue to provide a comprehensive range of banking services at Nambucca Heads and Kempsey,” the spokesperson said. 

“In addition, we are providing support for customers wanting to transact through other channels including digital and self-service options.

“Our team at Macksville branch will be redeployed to nearby branches.”