“An important piece of the puzzle has been the relationship with our bank, which is treated like a stakeholder in the business,” he says.

“Westpac has been supportive of growth and understands the potential of our business, which has been in a growth phase over the past couple of years.

“More recently, we’ve been guided by our banker’s expertise to help us work our way through the pandemic, which has really reinforced our relationship,” he says.

About Eastern Pacific

Eastern Pacific has cultivated an enviable legacy. Launched by his father 40 years ago, Chris came on board in 2011, when he opened up the construction arm and rebranded the business.

Today, Eastern Pacific acquires land to develop itself and also operates a successful construction arm, building developments and projects for others.

Based in Sydney’s Parramatta and Bella Vista, the NSW firm takes the lead on delivering a project, offering turnkey solutions. This provides clients with the peace of mind that comes with only having to communicate with one team for the duration of the development.

Operating primarily in mixed-use residential, commercial and industrial markets, Eastern Pacific also invests in retail and other property sectors. The business specialises in contract services in the public and private sector and owned development management services.

Abouhamad says it’s the mutual priority and respect showed by his bank in the busy world of business that has enabled it to endure the test of time, and survive a pandemic.

It’s this relationship that has been a crucial element in enabling him to make informed decisions when it comes to construction, business borrowings or refinancing, he says.

Barely a day goes by when Abouhamad isn’t on a call to his banker. “Our bank has proven to us that they’re able to deliver on what they say, with their assistance, direction and their understanding of the finance world putting us in a strong market position.”

Knowledge bank

Banks are much more than funding vehicles. They have a raft of specialist industry knowledge that is shared with customers ahead of those life-changing business decisions, Westpac’s National General Manager of Property Finance, Martin Green says.

He leads a team of property specialists that supports more than 7,000 developers and investors across the nation.

“Our property specialists have a deep understanding of the market, and are here to be a trusted partner to our customers’ businesses,” Green says.

The team has access to insights, which are combined with deep industry knowledge to best assess customers’ growth opportunities and help to form longstanding relationships in the process.

“It’s imperative that we have a thorough understanding of the industry and local markets to help advise our customers on the best way to grow their business.”

Whether you’re looking to grow, transform or scale up your business, Westpac is here to help make your plans happen. Chat to our specialist business bankers today to find the right solution for your business or find out how we can help at westpac.com.au/businessloanoffer