Money
Opening an Australian bank account as a new arrival
A practical comparison of the major banks for new arrivals, what documents you need, and how to open an account before you land.
Published 29 April 2026 · Last reviewed 29 April 2026
Opening an Australian bank account
Most Australian banks let new arrivals open an account online up to 12 months before arriving in Australia.
What you need
- Passport
- Visa grant notice (electronic visa works)
- Australian address (a friend's address or hotel is fine to start)
- A working email and phone number
Comparing the options
| Bank | New-arrival friendly? | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Commonwealth Bank (CBA) | Yes | Largest ATM network, NetBank app |
| ANZ | Yes | International transfers via OnePath |
| NAB | Yes | No monthly fee on classic account |
| Westpac | Yes | Strong online/mobile experience |
| ING | Sometimes | Fee-free, no Australian branches |
| Macquarie | Sometimes | Best digital UX, transactions in real time |
How long does activation take?
Usually within 7 days of arrival. You walk into a branch with your passport, they verify, and your card is mailed to your address within 5 business days.
A note on fees and surcharges
Australia does not have foreign-transaction fees on most domestic debit cards. Some banks charge ATM fees if you use a non-network ATM — check the disclosure.