Financial Claims Scheme
The Financial Claims Scheme (FCS) is an Australian Government scheme that provides protection to deposits in banks, building societies and credit unions, and to policies with general insurers in the unlikely event that one of these financial institutions fails.
What is the Financial Claims Scheme?
Under the FCS, certain deposits are protected up to a limit of $250,000 for each account holder at any bank, building society, credit union or other authorised deposit-taking institution (ADI) that is incorporated in Australia and authorised by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA).
The FCS can only come into effect if it is activated by the Australian Government when an institution fails. Once activated, the FCS will be administered by APRA.
In an FCS scenario, APRA would aim to pay the majority of customers their protected deposits under the Scheme within seven calendar days.
What are the objectives of the FCS?
- Protect depositors of banks, building societies and credit unions incorporated in Australia, and policyholders of general insurers from potential loss due to the failure of these institutions.
- Provide depositors with prompt access to their deposits that are protected under the FCS.
- Support the stability of the Australian financial system.
Where can I get further information on the FCS?
Information on the FCS is available on the FCS website – www.fcs.gov.au