DATED INFORMATION - Archive Only

Banks and banking

Major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Diners Club are accepted in Australia.

A credit card makes renting a car much simpler, as many agencies will not allow rental of a vehicle if you don't have a card for a security deposit.

Opening a bank account with any one of the major banks is the simplest way to keep your money safe. For up to six weeks after your arrival you can open a bank account with only your passport as ID. When this period expires you'll need to supply other ID which can be a bit complicated. If you want a card account, expect to wait for up to a week for your ATM card.

Most banks are open Mon – Thurs 9.30am-4pm, Fri 9.30am-5pm. Some larger city branches may have extended opening hours. Other banks can be open until 5pm on weekdays, until 9pm on Thursday nights, and until 12 noon on Saturdays. Examples of these are the St George Bank and the Advance Bank.

Location of ATMs, Visa Website
Other ATM locations, Westpac Website
Location of ATMs at Sydney International Airport, Visa Website

Budgerigar

The best known Australian parrot started its international popularity as a caged bird when a naturalist, John Gould, brought a pair to England in 1840.

Also see related A-Z listings: Animals.

Sydney 2000
Access Guide

Things you
must know

How much would
that be at home?