Australian Banks

Australian banks offer the same range of services typical in other western nations, such as cheque and savings accounts, credit cards, mortgages, loans and cash withdrawal machines.

Free banking can be obtained in Australia provided you keep enough savings or mortgage commitments with one bank. Otherwise you will have to pay fees such as a charge for every cheque you write. Monthly fees are also likely, even if you do not make any transactions.

Banking hours are usually 9.30am to 4.00pm Monday to Thursday and until 5.00pm on Friday. Some branches can be found open on Saturday mornings.

The four largest banks are:

National Bank of Australia

Australia New Zealand Bank

Commonwealth Bank of Australia

Westpac Banking Corporation



Smaller banks include:

ING Direct

AMP Banking

HSBC Australia

Woolworths Ezy Banking (Available in Woolworths supermarkets.)