Six charming old banks for sale around Australia
There’s something about old bank buildings that are downright charming. They’re grand, they’re beautiful and they’re chock full of character.
Whilst some old banks are still being used for the purpose they were built for, others have been repurposed for something entirely different — a coffee shop, a BnB, even a family home.
Here are some of the best old banks currently up for sale around Australia.
1. Wynyard, Tas
Old bank branches, such as this one in Burnie, Tasmania, can be transformed into offices or accommodation. Photo: Supplied
Originally built in about 1925 as the Bank of Australasia, this heritage-listed building has retained much of its wonderful period features, including the brick and rendered federation-style facade and arched windows.
The building is located within Wynyard’s town centre, with unparalleled views overlooking the Inglis River and Wynyard foreshore.
The property, at 7 Goldie Street, is on the market for $520,000, for the first time since 1994.
2. Chinchilla, Qld
Architect Francis Hall designed this building, as well as many others including Brisbane’s Anglican Cathedral. Photo: Supplied
The Grand Old Bank was built for the Bank of New South Wales in Chinchilla in 1934, and has since been converted into a huge six-bedroom residence.
Advertised as having a “very real Airbnb possibility”, this large property holds the option of opening either the whole upstairs or downstairs area to cater for guests, while living within the other area privately.
15 Chinchilla Street, Chinchilla, is for sale for $549,000.
3. Warragul, Vic
This 1889 bank was built for the Bank of London. Photo: Supplied
Built in about 1889 as the home of the Bank of London, this spectacular building dominates the streetscape with its Italianate architectural influence and prominent frontage.
Located in the heart of Warragul’s bustling CBD, stunning features throughout remind you of bygone eras, including the stunning 4.5-metre ornate ceilings.
Currently the property is let by two separate tenants – ground floor to a café and first floor to hairdressing salon – both of which are on long-term tenancy agreements.
3 Smith Street, Warragul, goes up for auction on February 23.
4. North Adelaide, SA
There are many possible uses for this renovated property in North Adelaide, including cafe and restaurant. Photo: Supplied
Originally a bank chamber built in the 1880s, this state heritage-listed building also previously operated as a bar, named ‘the Banque’.
Selling agents from Mcgees Property said the building had potential as a retail showroom or restaurant, and is located near the city, where there’s no shortage of old sandstone buildings.
The agents say 107-109 O’Connell Street is for sale with an asking price of $2.6 million.
5. Parramatta, NSW
The same tenant has occupied this grand building for more than 140 years. Photo: Supplied
Located on one of Parramatta’s busiest retail corners, this building dates back to 1874 and has been operating as a banking chamber ever since.
The building, an iconic sandstone landmark building, features impressive columns and an interconnected more modern building fronting Church Street.
The property at 264-270 Church Street, Parramatta, is for sale by expressions of interest.
6. Grenfell, NSW
The partially-renovated building is in the heart of Grenfell, in country NSW. Photo: Supplied
This stunning former bank, built in 1884, is situated in the heart of Grenfell, 2.5 hours from Canberra. The building is painted in heritage colours, with a horse stable and loft out the back.
“This beautiful building is crying out for someone to give it a new lease on life,” states the listing.
“A BnB, homewares store, restaurant, art gallery, office space or residence… the possibilities are only limited by your imagination.”
The building, at 77 Main Street, Grenfell, is for sale for $750,000.
