GET SETTLED / COMPARE YOUR OPTIONS

Sort your everyday banking

You want a straightforward way to receive wages, pay for everyday things and keep track of your money. Compare the account and the identification steps before applying.

I’ve sorted this

Where should I start?

Start with an everyday transaction account. International transfers are a separate comparison: look at how much arrives after fees and currency conversion, rather than just an advertised transfer fee.

Options to compare

Official prices and terms checked 16 October 2026.

Everyday banking

CommBank

Its moving-to-Australia guidance sets out how newcomers can open an account and complete identification.

Before you choose

The current newcomer process requires original-passport verification at a branch within 20 days of opening. Check the full process and current account fees before applying.

Check CommBank

Everyday banking

Westpac

Westpac Choice is its everyday account. Its newcomer page explains the application route for people arriving in Australia.

Before you choose

Check how close to arrival you can apply, how you will verify your identity, and when any introductory fee waiver ends.

Check Westpac

Everyday banking

ANZ

ANZ provides account-opening guidance for people arriving from overseas. Its standard guidance says you can apply once you arrive.

Before you choose

Compare the relevant account’s fees and required documents. ANZ and ANZ Plus have different onboarding routes—use the instructions for the product you choose.

Check ANZ

Everyday banking

NAB

NAB’s moving-to-Australia page explains its newcomer account-opening route and eligibility. Use this guide to check when you can apply and what identification you need.

Before you choose

Check your visa eligibility, identity verification, card delivery and the current account fees before applying.

Check NAB

International transfers · separate comparison

Wise

An option to compare when moving money between countries. Check the quote for your currency and amount alongside your bank’s quote.

Before you choose

Compare the amount received, conversion costs, delivery time and account terms. Do not assume the service has the same features or protections as an everyday bank account.

Check Wise

Your questions, answered

What do I take to open the account?

Start with your original passport, visa information, local contact details and the address where you can receive your card. The bank may also ask about tax residency and tax identification numbers. Follow its newcomer checklist because online and branch requirements differ.

Official guidance

Can I use my hostel address?

Ask both the bank and your hostel. You need an address the bank accepts and a reception team willing to hold your post. Make sure you’ll still be there when the card arrives, or arrange an alternative with the bank.

What does a free account actually mean?

Look for the ongoing account fee and the exact waiver conditions. A newcomer offer might end, or a waiver might depend on your age or deposits. Also compare overseas card payments, ATM charges and international transfers. An account with no monthly fee can still charge for other services.

What do I give my employer for wages?

Give payroll your account name, BSB and account number using its official onboarding process. Keep your password and PIN private. The BSB identifies the bank branch; the account number identifies your account. Check both carefully before your first payday.

Before you commit

Check whether your visa, age and current location meet the bank’s account-opening requirements.
Have your original passport ready and check which other identity, address and tax-residency details the bank needs.
Compare monthly fees and the conditions for any fee waiver, plus ATM and international transaction charges.
Work out where your debit card will be delivered and whether you need a branch visit before using the account.

Bank account sorted? Next, sort your super and TFN using the payday links below. Your bank and super fund can be different providers.

These are direct provider links. No affiliate tracking is currently used.

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