Bankwest today announced it had established a $2 billion "Fighting Fund" to help kick start growth and employment in Australia's jobs engine room - small to medium enterprises.
Bankwest Corporate and Business CEO Paul Clark said the Fighting Fund was tailored to support SMEs so they could grow and remain competitive during some of the most difficult economic conditions in living memory.
"SMEs are one of the prime movers driving Australia's economy and Bankwest is committed to helping these important businesses," Mr Clark said.
"The Bankwest $2 billion Fighting Fund will help ensure Australian businesses get the funds they need to get on with the job."
Mr Clark said Bankwest was offering the market's most competitive rate of 4.99% (12 month variable) to help kick start growth, in addition to a range of other market leading products already on offer.
"This important initiative shows Bankwest will continue to support Australian business through the tough times," Mr Clark said.
"Most Australian jobs are found in SMEs and if we can help get this sector back on its feet and through the down turn we can set Australia up for a strong recovery."
Mr Clark said Bankwest's Business Fighting Fund and 4.99% rate would be offered until 30 June 2009, with facilities drawn down by 31st August 2009.
SME's could apply for loans from $250,000 to $5 million.
