CommBank Customers Face Outage Amidst Digital Banking Shift

On January 28, 2026, Commonwealth Bank (CommBank) customers across Australia experienced a significant outage, leaving many unable to access online banking services. The disruption, which began in the afternoon, affected the CommBank app and NetBank platform, preventing users from checking balances, transferring funds, and making payments. By 4:45 pm, the bank announced that services had been restored.

 

This incident is the latest in a series of technical issues faced by major Australian banks. In October 2025, CommBank experienced a similar outage that impacted payments, online access, and ATMs. The bank addressed the problem within a few hours, but customers expressed frustration over the recurring disruptions.

 

The increasing reliance on digital banking services has been accompanied by a reduction in physical bank branches. Between 2024 and 2025, Australia saw a 5% decrease in bank branches, with 155 closures nationwide. This trend reflects the shift towards online banking, but it also raises concerns about accessibility, especially for customers in regional areas.

 

In response to these concerns, CommBank has committed to maintaining its regional branches until at least mid-2027. The bank has also invested over $60 million in upgrading its branch and ATM network during the 2024 financial year, aiming to enhance customer experience and accessibility.

 

Despite these efforts, the recent outage has sparked renewed discussions about the reliability of digital banking platforms. Customers have taken to social media to voice their dissatisfaction, with some questioning the bank's preparedness for technical failures. The incident underscores the need for robust digital infrastructure to support the growing demand for online banking services.

 

As the banking industry continues to evolve, balancing technological advancements with reliable service delivery remains a critical challenge. Ensuring that all customers, regardless of their location or digital proficiency, have consistent access to banking services is essential for maintaining trust and satisfaction in the sector.

In which year was Brisbane officially declared a city and designated the capital of Queensland?

NAB: 2.69% Westpac: 2.59% ANZ: 2.69% CBA: 2.69%

Brisbane was officially declared a city and designated the capital of Queensland on December 6, 1859.