Australia is struggling with the fires and we’re only halfway through the season. However it’s heartwarming to see Australia joining hands in helping out those in need which is true Australian spirit.

The banking industry is doing their bit too, nearly all financial institutions have set something up to help out. I open up my NAB app and I’m instantly notified of a $2,000 grant I could get should I be affected.

But the ones really standing out for me are CBA and Westpac. CBA has allocated $10 million in funds to be able to offer grants up to $50,000 to community organizations that need repairs or replacements done that are not insured.

Westpac is the number one for me. They’ve offered to take over the mortgage repayments of the ones effected, up to $1200 per month for a period of 12 months. That’s a total benefit of over $14,000. Now that’s definitely financial piece of mind while you’re rebuilding your home and your life.

However, it is remarkable that the two banks that were having the most trouble over the past two years are now setting the industry standards for community assistance.