BankSA has earmarked the closure of branches in Booleroo Centre, Tintinara, Gladstone, Orroroo, Meningie, Lameroo, Riverton, Streaky Bay, Burra, Eudunda, Penola, Wallaroo, Balaklava, Barmera, Mt Pleasant, Robe, Yorketown, Cleve, Mt Compass and Crystal Brook.

Australia Post and municipal councils have struck a deal with BankSA and will absorb face-to-face banking transactions into their regular services.

BankSA said over-the-counter transaction had fallen to 5 per cent of customer business, with the bulk occurring outside of branches and electronically.

Branches will close where over-the-counter transactions have dropped to 3 per cent or less.

BankSA chief executive Nick Reade said mobile and online banking had influenced an unprecedented shift in the way customers banked.

“While 95 per cent of all BankSA transactions no longer involve a face-to-face interaction in a branch, this number is even higher in many regional communities, where 97 per cent of transactions are performed at ATMs, over the phone or internet, or increasingly using an app on a mobile device,” he said.

“While this phenomenon means that in many ways banking is easier, quicker and more convenient than ever before, it also means transaction volumes at some BankSA branches have fallen to unsustainable levels, even in locations where they are only open a few days a week.

“Our future strength and sustainability depends on how we respond and adapt to our changing environment now.

“Branch closures are always difficult decisions and, because we know how they can impact some smaller communities, we have worked hard to ensure continuity of face-to-face banking services while addressing declining transaction volumes at some branches.”

Reade said the bank was redirecting services where they were most needed.

“At the same time, we know that change like this can be unsettling and we will work closely with customers who may require assistance with accessing banking alternatives in their community,” he said.

“Our partnerships with Australia Post and regional councils will result in 300 new face-to-face banking alternatives, and in every location where BankSA is planning to close a branch, a Bank@Post alternative already exists and can be accessed by customers.”