AUSTRALIAN BANKS TAKE ALL STEPS TO ENSURE US STAFF ARE SAFE Sydney, 12 September, 2001:  The Australian Banking Industry joins world condemnation of the overnight terrorist attack on the United States of America and expresses deep sympathy for the innocent victims of the horrific acts. David Bell, Chief Executive Officer of the ABA, said: "Australian banks are taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety and welfare of Australian staff working in New York." "Our banks will also play their role in ensuring critical financial services to all customers both here and internationally are maintained." "We all feel deeply for the families of staff and colleagues who were working in the World Trade Centre in the heart of the American financial district and at the Pentagon in Washington." "Australian banks, with US operations, have been able to operate their systems with minimal customer disruption and for most it is business as usual. Those who have closed their New York offices are awaiting clearance from authorities before re-opening." "Australian banks are working to ensure that bank activities operate as normally as possible and this has been achieved so far." "Due to the closure of the US financial markets, some Australian banks have suspended valuations and redemption and the processing of new applications for most managed funds until further notice. Cash management trusts are operating as usual." "Some member banks are further discussing this matter with the Australian Securities and Investment Commission and banks will continue to actively manage this situation." For Further Information Contact:   Heather Wellard ABA PR Phone: 02 8298 0411 Mobile: 0409 830 439   ENDS