Skip to content
First Week30-60 minutesMoney & Finance

Open an Australian bank account

You need a local bank account to get paid, pay rent, and manage daily expenses. Most banks have accounts designed for newcomers.

Why this matters

Your employer can't pay you without an Australian account. International transfers are expensive and slow.

How to do it

How to do it

  1. 1

    Compare accounts at MoneySmart (government comparison tool)

  2. 2

    Visit a branch with your passport and visa

  3. 3

    Some banks let you open accounts online before you arrive

  4. 4

    Get your account details and BSB for your employer

Do this in your first few days. Some banks require you to visit a branch within 6 weeks of opening online.

Time required: 30-60 minutes

Go to official resource

Applicable Visa Types

Student Visa (Subclass 500)Skilled Worker Visa (Subclass 482)Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417)Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801)Permanent Resident

Related Guides

finance

Apply for your TFN (Tax File Number)

A TFN is your unique tax ID in Australia. You need it to work, open bank accounts, and lodge tax returns. Without it, you'll be taxed at the highest rate.

First Week20 minutes online
finance

Know the Working Holiday Maker tax rate

As a WHM, you're taxed differently. The first $45,000 you earn is taxed at 15%, not the usual tax-free threshold.

First Week5 minutes to understand
finance

Choose your superannuation fund

Super is Australia's retirement savings system. Your employer must pay 11.5% of your salary into a super fund. You can choose which fund.

First Month30 minutes research
finance

Check Centrelink eligibility on Partner visa

Partner visa holders have a 2-year waiting period for most Centrelink payments. Some exceptions apply.

First Month30 minutes research

Get your personalised checklist

Sign up free and get a settlement plan tailored to your visa, city, and timeline.

Get started — it's free