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Latest News
Win Theatre Tickets - YELLOW MOON | 08 July, 2010 |
 | Black Swan State Theatre Company presents The HotBed Ensemble
YELLOW MOON The Ballad of Leila and Lee
BY DAVID GREIG
Lee is a cocky teenager who seems to attract trouble, Silent Leila’s a 17 year-old Muslim girl looking for a way to fit in. She spends her Friday nights lost in the blurry universe of glossy celebrity magazines, Lee stealing booze from the supermarket.
They never meant to get mixed up in a murder, but after Billy Logan is killed, the teenagers are on the run and need a place to hide. As the winter closes in, Leila and Lee take flight to the Scottish Highlands. The caretaker Frank, full of drink and deceit, offers them shelter in a hunting lodge. Just as the pair find refuge, the first guests of the season begin to arrive. David Greig is one of the most exciting contemporary playwrights working today. Yellow Moon - The Ballad of Leila and Lee is set to be the most inventive and vital storytelling of the season.
6 - 22 August 2010, PICA (Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts)
Duration: approx. 1 hour (no interval) - Warning: contains frequent strong language
Further information: www.bsstc.com.au
Bookings available through BOCS: www.bocsticketing.com.au or phone (08) 9484 1133
One entry per member. Draw closes on July 30.
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It all comes back to you | 07 July, 2010 |
At Unicredit we know the way in which we deliver our transaction, savings and loan accounts, is what is really important to you. However, once in-a-while, its worth focussing on what makes Unicredit the way we are.
Recently, many credit unions have banded together to help promote the vital role that ‘mutuals’ play in providing banking services for a huge number of Australians - a fact that gets easily lost under the massive advertising budgets of the banks.
4.5 million Australians prefer to bank at a place which isn’t a bank at all.
While we know that our members care most about how our flexible accounts work for them; the fact we are ‘mutual’ permeates everything we do.
As a mutual we have ‘members’ rather than ‘customers’. The difference being that our customers are also equally valued shareholders. The aim for us is not to extract ever increasing fees and profits to benefit investors, but to provide reliable, low fee products - and then use profits to re-invest back into the society, so that all members can benefit.
A sense of fairness is intrinsic to mutual organisations. By being narrowly focussed, we are forced to focus on customer service and achieving growth through personal referrals.
This desire to put our members first has recently resulted in Unicredit's transaction accounts being awarded a 5 star rating by Canstar Cannex - recognising "Outstanding Value'. Both of Unicredit's transaction accounts were awarded five stars: the straight-forward On-Call Savings account and the Visa Access account - which has the additional benefits of international access, internet purchases and a no-fee overdraft.
With a huge network of free ATMs, free internet transactions, and a small maintenance fee (that is easy to avoid), it is easy to see why Unicredit is winning awards. All of this comes with free personal service - over-the-counter and phone.
Unicredit's 'mutual' style means that we strive to keep things as simple and transparent as possible. We actively encourage our members to manage their money in a sensible way and avoid paying fees. We look to the long-term - of building trust and relationships, often through multiple generations of a family.
Because we need to be there for our members, personal service has always been a key focus. Whether you attend the AGM or not, every member is a shareholder and owner of this financial organisation.
The world has changed a lot since Unicredit was formed in 1964. Back then, a loan application involved putting on a suit to impress the bank manager. Credit unions became popular as financial institutions that took the time to understand their customers' needs and establishing personal relationships.
In the 1980s and 90s, when both bank branches and bank managers became increasingly scarce, the credit unions were able to continue to provide personal service, and did not penalise people for dealing with real people in a branch.
Unicredit’s conservative, member focussed attitude really paid off when the credit crunch hit in 2007/08. While many other borrowers were forced to re-finance their loans at considerable cost, Unicredit members were provided stability throughout this crisis. By putting our members first, Unicredit did not get caught up in loan securitisation or liquidity issues and were able to pass on savings to our members.
Working together with our fellow mutual banking organisations, we are now able to deliver to our members access to one of the largest free ATM networks in the country, a Visa card with no application or ongoing fees, and nearly everything else the four major banks can offer. But we do this in a way unique to us - with personal service and low fees. |
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Computer Security - member offer | 07 July, 2010 |
Much of what you value is on your computer - the passwords you use to access your bank account, savings, and insurance coverage - your photographs, your music, your contacts and important documents.
Unicredit strongly recommends that all members, who use the internet, protect both their identity information and their internet banking security. A properly installed computer protection package, which automatically updates to handle new security threats should be used at all times. One of the major, and often recommended, programs is offered by AVG. The following product information is offered, in return for AVG providing a discount for our members.^
AVG Internet Security, provides multiple layers of protection; protection for identity theft, spam and viruses. And it’ll even prevent you from accidentally visiting harmful sites. It’s faster, smarter security that won’t slow your computer down. All this together with free local telephone support, plus free e-mail and online expert support 24/7.
Easy-to-use, automated protection Real-time protection, automatic updates, low-impact background scanning for online threats, and instant quarantining or removal of infected files ensures maximum protection. Every interaction between your computer and the internet is monitored.
Identity Protection safeguards personal informationAVG Identity Protection is an extra layer of defence included with AVG Internet Security 9.0. It uses advanced behavioural technology to prevent identity theft, plus detect and block new and unknown threats.
LinkScanner® stops web exploit threats The all-new AVG LinkScanner® technology proactively protects all of your online activities against web exploits and drive-by downloads in real time.
Safe Search - AVG LinkScanner Search-Shield scans Google, Yahoo! and MSN search results in real-time and places safety ratings next to each link.
Safe Surf - AVG LinkScanner Active Surf-Shield scans each and every web page and every link on each page before you open them to ensure they are safe.
AVG Internet Security 9.0 all-in-one complete protection - Identity Protection: keeps your private information secure
- LinkScanner: ensures every web page you visit is safe
- Anti-Spam: blocks spammers and scammers
- Enhanced Firewall: keeps intruders out and sensitive information in
- Anti-Virus: protection against viruses, worms and trojans
- Anti-Spyware: protection against spyware and adware
- Anti-Phishing: checks to make sure web pages are genuine
- Anti-Bot: prevents your computer becoming part of a botnet
- Resident Shield: scans the files you work with for threats
- Online Shield: screens downloads and protects you while using instant messaging
- Behaviour Monitoring: detects and removes new and unknown threats
- E-mail Scanner: scans incoming and outgoing e-mail for threats
Save up to 40%* AVG have put together a special offer for Unicredit members to try AVG Internet Security 9.0 absolutely free for 90 days. Once you are satisfied by the protection and performance delivered by AVG Internet Security 9.0, you can purchase at a 15% discount to remain protected, with regular virus updates.
To download a free trial version or to purchase at the discount price immediately, click on the link below to go to AVG's Unicredit members offer website.
Click here for : AVG Offer for Unicredit Members
* Savings calculation based on a combination of the 90 day trial of AVG Internet Security (valued at $18.50) plus the additional 15% discount on the purchase of a 1 PC, 1 Year subscription of AVG Internet Security at RRP A$69.99 ^ No protection software will completely guarantee against unauthorised access or virus contamination, but it may increase the security of your computer system. This offer for security software is not an endorsement from Unicredit. References to AVG’s product is intended for explicit description only. Unicredit does not receive commission from the sale of any software. |
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Tax Time Scams | 05 July, 2010 |
Every year criminals use tax time as a means to scam people into divulging personal details.
Phishing emails
There has been a marked increase in phishing emails that purport to come from the ATO but are really designed to steal people's banking details and passwords. This year, the scams are more sophisticated than ever before.
Fraudsters have created emails that include the ATO logo and links to the real ATO website to make them appear authentic. The ATO has advised that the topic of the emails is generally an offer of online tax returns and they lure users with subject lines and key words such as ‘the benefits of e-tax’, eligibility requirements’ and ‘click here to get tax refund’.
Once the bait has been taken, the scams try to entice users to give away personal information including online banking details and password, claiming they are required to process their refund. Some emails include links to fake but very realistic web pages designed to look and feel like the authentic e-tax website. In both scenarios victims are at risk of having their bank accounts compromised and their identity stolen to commit other fraud.
The ATO has said the public should be alert to potential email or phone scams or suspicious door knockers. Suspicious activity can be reported to the tax office on 13 28 61. "While we may occasionally send you emails or SMS text messages promoting new products or services we will never ask for your personal information such as credit card details, online banking details, TFN, your date of birth or passwords," the ATO said.
The best way to avoid being targeted by these attacks is by keeping your browser, security and spam filter software up-to-date, never click on links contained in unsolicited emails and be suspicious of any requests to enter account names, passwords and other confidential information.
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Woolworths Conglomerate Removes Visa Debit Choice | 01 April, 2010 |
Woolworths retail chains have disabled the ‘credit’ button at their checkouts, restricting access for all Visa Debit card holders.
This restriction will effectively force Unicredit Visa Access debit card holders to press ‘savings’ when making a purchase - so the transaction will be conducted through EFTPOS, rather than the Visa network.
As our Visa Access card is also EFTPOS linked, members can still make purchases at Woolworths stores, however without the Visa functionality. This limitation applies to all Debit cards issued by both Mastercard and Visa, and all card issuing financial institutions.
There are no issues with your card; it is still fully functional. Your Visa Access Debit card will work normally at all other merchants, when you press ‘Cr’ or ‘Sav’.
Woolworths are making this change to push transaction costs back to financial organisations. Your Unicredit Visa Access Debit card will still work at all Woolworth owned chains, but as an EFTPOS purchase rather than a Visa transaction - and without the option of manually signing for your purchase.
If you have forgotten your PIN, please call into your Unicredit branch (Nedlands, Murdoch or Curtin) and reset it, on the spot.
Chris Clark from Visa Australia expressed his extreme disappointment in Woolworths’ announcement that it intends to remove choice at the checkout by routing all debit transactions via the EFTPOS network.
“Visa Debit provides clear benefits to consumers, such as enhanced security features, as all Visa Debit cards are being migrated to secure chip technology,” he said. The deactivation of the ‘Cr’ button for Visa Debit will occur within all stores in the Woolworths company group including: - BIG W
- Woolworths Supermarkets
- Safeway Supermarkets
- Woolworths, BWS & Safeway Liquor
- Dan Murphy’
- Dick Smith & Tandy
- Woolworths & Safeway Petrol
- Caltex Woolworths petrol outlets
- ALH pubs & bottle shops (inc. Captain Stirling, Brass Monkey, Belgian Beer Café, The Queens, Como Hotel, Sail & Anchor, Hyde Park, Vic Hotel, Bullcreek)
We encourage all members to keep using the ‘Cr’ button at all other stores, when cash-out is not required. Pressing the credit button will ensure that you continue to receive the benefits of Visa Debit, and assists in minimising costs for your mutual credit society.
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Tips to avoid transaction costs | 23 March, 2010 |
With Unicredit’s fee structure there is no need for our members to incur fees. For members who can’t get to a Unicredit branch for free counter service, there are a number of options available to avoid transaction fees.
1. Cashless shopping• Use your Redi EFTPOS card when making purchases.
While it may sound obvious, the use of cash is mostly a habit. Most retailers can swipe a card as fast as you can fumble for change – so why not get in the habit.
• Apply for a Visa Access Card
It’s free to apply for a Visa Access card and overdraft - and there are no ongoing fees. Visa Access provides the ability to make Visa purchases, with no transactions costs and even use your own money while doing it. You can now also use your PIN to authorise Visa purchases (as well as EFTPOS) so its even quicker and easier than before.
• Pay Your Bills by BPAY
Avoid Post Office costs by paying your bills directly from your Unicredit account. You can register for phone or internet banking and make your payments whenever you wish, or we can pay your bills over the counter - at no cost.
2. Take cash out when you use EFTPOS By making EFTPOS purchases a habit, it also allows you to access moderate amounts of cash. Consider making a point of paying for your petrol or grocery purchases by EFTPOS once a week, and grabbing some cash at the same time.
3. Get to know where your rediATM and NAB ATM’s are - and take out sufficient cash for the week Many of our members use ATMs very frequently. Plan ahead and find out where your rediATMs are (near your home, work or shops) and make a point of taking out sufficient cash when you can. www.rediATM.com.au
4. Don’t use bank ATMs for balance queries Many ATMs are charging large fees just for an account balance - so get your balances for free via Unicredit phone or internet banking instead. Another option, if you’re out and about, is to get your balance via SMS. To access SMS balances, firstly register for SMS alerts in Unicredit internet banking and then you can text BAL to 0428 768 439, to receive a return SMS at a standard call cost (25 cents), anytime and anywhere in Australia.
5. ATM bonus for home loan members As a bonus to our members who have their home loan with us, we will pay all your Direct ATM Fees for you (for as long as your loan is over $150,000). This means you can use any ATM in the country, as often as you like. |
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Who gets your super? | 23 March, 2010 |
Who decides what happens to your superannuation savings when you die? In many cases, the ultimate decision may be made by the trustee of your superannuation fund. However, there are ways in which you can have greater control over your superannuation savings.
Binding death benefit nominationsThe most certain way to direct payment of your superannuation upon your death is by making a binding death benefit nomination. The nominated beneficiaries must be a dependant (spouse or child) or a legal personal representative (the executor or administrator of a deceased estate).
If the nomination has been legally signed and witnessed and is still current at the date of death, then the trustees of the superannuation fund must pay the death benefit to the nominated beneficiaries. Valid binding superannuation nominations are unlikely to be overturned by a court, so they provide greater certainty. However, binding death benefit nominations are only valid for three years, so it is important to ensure that they are regularly reviewed.
Trustee’s discretionEven when binding nominations are available, many members don’t make use of them and in these cases, even if a member has nominated preferred beneficiaries, it is the trustee that decides who the death benefit will be paid to.
The trustee is under a legal obligation to pay a death benefit to the member’s dependants and in most cases benefits will be paid in a way that is consistent with the wishes of the deceased member. However, it is possible the trustee may recognise a wider range of dependants than the member would have liked, such as an ex-spouse.
Which option? Given the choice, most people prefer to make a binding nomination, as it provides greater certainty. If the benefit is paid to an estate, flexibility can be provided through the terms of the Will. For example, the superannuation proceeds can be used to set up a testamentary trust, which may provide some tax advantages to beneficiaries. In some cases, the member’s preferred beneficiary may not meet the legal definition of a dependant (this may apply to parents). In the absence of any dependants and a legal personal representative, the trustee may exercise their discretion and pay the benefit to a non-dependant, but making a binding death benefit nomination in this case would provide more certainty.
Superannuation pensionsThe situation is a little different if the member has already retired and is drawing a superannuation pension. With pensions, it is common to nominate a surviving spouse as a reversionary beneficiary. This means the pension payments will continue to be paid to the nominee, either until their death or until the funds run out. If the reversionary beneficiary dies, any remaining balance is then paid out as a lump sum death benefit according to the type of nomination they have made.
As there are increasing levels of wealth being held via superannuation, the nomination of beneficiaries should be made in the context of a comprehensive estate plan. This includes taking into account the way superannuation death benefits are taxed when paid to different types of beneficiary.
Speak to a Bridges Financial Planner to make the most of your situation
Bridges ASX Participant AFSL No 240837 (Part of Australian Wealth Management) In referring members to Bridges, your financial institution does not accept responsibility for any acts, omissions or advice of Bridges and its authorised representatives. |
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Safe Travel Checklist | 17 December, 2009 |
By notifying Unicredit before you travel you'll help us to prevent card fraud and look after your accounts.
Before you depart we recommend you check this list…
As part of your pre-journey plans always let us know where and how long you are away
Like all card issuers we monitor overseas card transactions as part of our fraud prevention programs. Overseas transactions are both a higher risk transaction for us and a possible indicator of card fraud. If someone uses your card in Morocco and we know you’re in New York that day, then we know we could have a problem. You will be assisting Unicredit by providing details, including which countries you intend to visit.
Make sure you replace your Visa Access Card with a new chip card
Unicredit Visa Access cards now have an embedded chip which prevents counterfeiting. Many countries no-longer use the card magnetic strip, so make sure you request a free replacement card and memorise your new PIN, at least two weeks before you leave.
Always have several methods of accessing cash and paying your bills
Cards can get lost, compromised, stolen or swallowed by ATMs, and if you’re caught out, you'll need to deal with weekends and public holidays, in addition to time-zone difficulties. A Redicard can be an easy backup to access cash, or a Travelex Debit or Travelex Cash Card can keep your main accounts completely safe.
Protect your PIN and magnetic card strip from skimming
Whether here or overseas, cover the ATM keypad with your other hand when you enter your PIN, and don't proceed if someone is observing. Try not to let your Visa Access card out of your sight when purchasing and make sure you trust the retailer. If you're unsure, its better to use another payment method.
Keep important details safe
Keep a record of your card numbers and the phone number for reporting lost or stolen cards (we’ve listed these below). Keep these with copies of passports and tickets in a safe place (not handbag or wallet)
Help us to get in contact if necessary
Provide us with an email address that you'll be checking whilst travelling or (roaming mobile) so we can contact you. If that’s not possible, a local contact who can confirm your itinerary is also useful. If you are going to be overseas for a prolonged time, please let us know and ensure you provide us with a contact address and telephone number
24 Hour Lost and Stolen Cards
in Australia: 1800 224 004
from overseas : 61 2 9959 7480
Unicredit Head Office : 61 8 9389 1011 (in office hours)
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Pre-paid Travel Cards
Pre-paid travel cards are the ideal backup to your main credit card. They can be instantly issued over the counter (with a PIN) at Unicredit and loaded within two working days.
You can use a Travelex Cash Passport to withdraw cash from ATMs or, if you choose the Cash Passport Debit Card, to spend money in shops, restaurants and hotels while you're away, exactly as you would use a credit card at home.
You can use the Cash Passport card to access foreign cash at over a million Visa ATMs. The Cash Debit card also provides access to over 24 million Visa merchants and online retailers, as well as ATM cash. Online access is available via Travelex to check your transaction history and balance, locate Visa ATMs, and change your PIN and contact details.
Reload : You also have the convenience of reloading your card via BPAY ® from anywhere in the world, within two working days, simply by logging onto Uniteller and selecting to “pay a bill”, straight to your Travelex account.
Refer to the “Travel Cards & Currency” page for further information |
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