Ten quick tips on banking:

1. As the four major banks have outlets all over Australia, it is handy to use one of them: Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA), National Australia Bank (NAB), Westpac, ANZ.

2. Banks are closed on Saturday and Sunday and open from 9 am-4 pm during weekdays.

   For more info visit: Banking in Australia

3. To open bank account you’ll need your passport. Make sure to show your student card for special student account with low fees.

4. Use ATM (automatic machines outside bank buildings and also in petrol stations or shops) to withdraw money. If using a card from your home country, it is better to take out large amounts at once as fee per withdrawal can cost you up to 5 dollar each time. If you opened an Australian bank account, usually you will be allowed to withdraw money without paying fees at the ATM of your Australian bank. However if you withdraw money from another bank’s ATM, charges will occur.

5. Normal bank card lets you pay in shops using EFTPOS (use PIN). For online shopping you need credit or special debit card.

6. Internet and phone banking can be done via Bpay. Simply fill in Bpay number on bill, reference number and amount and pay.

7. Money transfers can take up to 6 weeks. You need BSB number (branch code of bank) and your account number.

8. Traveller’s cheques are a safe way to bring large amounts of money. Y can exchange the cheque into Australian dollars in Australian banks or exchange agents. Make sure to shop around for the best rate.

9. Some Australian banks like Commonwealth Bank, ANZ, National and Westpac, now have branches overseas. They may be able to help you set up a bank account in Australia and transfer money before you leave home.

10. You can pay almost everywhere in Australia with credit cards like Visa, Master and American Express.