Westpac Banking (ASX:WBC, NZE:WBC) has launched a new "Book a Banker" tool that allows customers to lock in a home loan appointment directly with a Westpac lender, according to a Tuesday statement.

The tool will be expanded to St.George, BankSA, and Bank of Melbourne customers in the coming months.

"Whether customers are just starting to think about buying a home or are ready to apply, this makes it easier to have that first conversation with a banker - wherever they are in Australia," said Managing Director of Mortgages, James Hutton.

The company's shares rose 1% in recent Tuesday trade.