Westpac hit with class action over 'irresponsible' home loans

Westpac will face a class action in the Federal Court, with the bank accused of irresponsibly granting home loans to people who couldn't afford them.

Westpac will face a class action in the Federal Court, with the bank accused of irresponsibly granting home loans to people who couldn't afford them.

Westpac will face a class action in the Federal Court, with the bank accused of irresponsibly granting home loans to people who couldn't afford them. Source: AAP

Westpac is facing a class action for allegedly giving loans to people who couldn't afford to pay them back.

The class action, in the Federal Court, is the first against one of Australia's big four banks since the banking royal commission delivered its damning report.

Maurice Blackburn principal lawyer Ben Slade says Westpac will be accused of breaching its obligations to protect customers from financial harm.

Maurice Blackburn principal lawyer Ben Slade said Westpac is required to "comply with strict obligations".
Maurice Blackburn principal lawyer Ben Slade said Westpac is required to "comply with strict obligations". Source: AAP


"Westpac is required to comply with strict obligations which are specifically designed to protect consumers from irresponsible lending and the risk of financial hardship," he said on Thursday.



"This case will seek to prove that Westpac failed to comply with these obligations and that this failure caused substantial losses for many consumers."

Westpac will face a class action over allegations of irresponsible lending practices.
Westpac will face a class action over allegations of irresponsible lending practices. Source: AAP




The case could involve thousands of home loans issued after January 1, 2011.


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Westpac hit with class action over 'irresponsible' home loans | SBS News