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Opening a bank account

You will need to show ‘100 points’ of identification to open a new bank account with an Australian financial institution. These forms of identification can include:

  • Birth certificate
  • Driver’s licence
  • Passport
  • ATM card with another bank

Each form of identification has a ‘points’ value ranging from 25 to 100 points. 

You will need a total of 100 points.

Talk to your financial institution about the identification that will count towards your 100 points and remember to take the right documents to the bank the day you open your account.

Major banks in Australia

Always make sure that you read and understand the terms and conditions when applying for a bank account. Ask about:

  • Fees and charges
  • Withdrawal limits
  • Internet/phone banking options

Opening hours for banks in Australia are different to other businesses. Banks are generally open:

  • Monday-Thursday: 9.30am until 4.00pm
  • Friday: 9.30am until 5.00pm
  • Saturday: Limited trading
  • Sunday: CLOSED  

Opening hours can vary between branches. Please check with your local bank or visit their website.

Credit cards

International credit cards such as MasterCard, Visa, American Express* and Diners Club* can be used in Australia.

Most companies accept repayments electronically by phone or Internet; however, money needs to be transferred from an account within the country where the credit card was originally issued.

Visit the Department of Home Affairs for more information.

* Please be aware that higher surcharge fees may apply for purchases made using these cards.