Bank Accounts Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I start a bank account online?
Yes, most lenders that operate in Australia will let you set up a bank account online. The process is usually simple and takes five to 10 minutes. You will probably need to provide a passport or birth certificate, as well as a driver’s licence, Medicare card or another form of secondary identification. Requirements differ from lender to lender, so some institutions might ask for more or different forms of ID.
Can foreigners open bank accounts in Australia?
Many Australian lenders allow foreigners to open bank accounts in Australia. Often, this can be done before you arrive in the country – with no Australian address required. When you get to Australia, you can pick up your debit card, using your passport as identification.
How do you transfer money from PayPal to a bank account?
Transferring money from PayPal to an Australian bank account is simple. Just follow these three steps:
- Go to your Wallet
- Click ‘Transfer Money’
- Follow the instructions
The money will take three to seven business days to reach your bank account.
Once you’ve made the transfer request, it can’t be withdrawn.
Do you need a bank account to get a credit card?
To get a credit card, you need to show proof of income, which will almost certainly require you to have a bank account.
Can debt collectors take money out of your bank account?
Many people find themselves struggling to cope with debt at one time or another. In these cases, a debt collector could contact you to demand payment for a debt, to explain the consequences of you failing to pay a debt, or to organise alternative payment arrangements.
If you’re contacted by a debt collector, you may be wondering what their rights are and whether they can take money out of your bank account.
Creditors cannot access money in your bank account unless a court order (also known as a ‘garnishee order’) is made to allow creditors to recover debt by taking money from your bank account or salary.
If this happens, the creditor can take money out of your bank account unless you pay the debt in full or make an alternative payment arrangement such as paying in instalments through the court.
How do I open a bank account for a baby?
If you’ve just welcome a new baby into the world, congratulations. Opening a bank account for your child can be a wonderful first gift.
Before you can open your child an account, you’ll need to have a birth certificate or passport for your baby.
As the parent or guardian, you’ll also be listed as a joint holder on the account. This means you’ll need to have proof of your identification and address (a driver’s licence, passport, birth certificate or Medicare Card).
Many banks and credit unions offer baby banks accounts. Usually, you can apply online; otherwise you can head into a local branch or office with your documents.
Can you open a bank account at 16?
Yes, you can open a bank account at 16, or even younger. If you’re 13 or under, you will probably need a parent to accompany you to a branch.
How do I close a bank account?
Closing a bank account is one of those tasks that’s easy to put in the too-hard basket. There are quite a few steps involved, some which may require you to hang on the phone for a while.
Here’s a handy checklist of items to tick off, so the job gets done quicker. If you don’t do your banking online, the following steps can also be done at a branch.
- Cancel any scheduled or recurring payments
- Update your direct debit details (such as loan repayments) with creditors
- Export your payee address book (to keep a record of saved third-party bank account details)
- Transfer the balance of your account (to the new bank account)
- Close your account online, or by calling the bank or visiting a branch
How do you find a bank account number by name?
For privacy reasons, Australian banks won’t hand out account numbers or other details about their customers. However, if you provide a bank with a BSB and account number, they should be able to confirm if those numbers belong to one of their customers.
How can I wire money to a bank account?
You can wire money to an Australian bank account either through your own bank or by using a money transfer company such as Western Union or MoneyGram. Either way, you’ll need the other person’s name, BSB number and account number. If you use a money transfer company, you might also need to provide the recipient’s address for large payments.
