EXHIBIT 23

                         CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS




INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT

We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statements No.
333-20191, No. 333-51143, No. 333-46588 and No. 333-81242 of Washington Federal,
Inc. on Form S-8 of our report dated November 6, 2003, incorporated by reference
in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Washington Federal, Inc. for the year ended
September 30, 2003.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche, LLP
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DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP

December 22, 2003
Seattle, Washington