Move to AU

Year-End Checklist for New Migrants in Australia (2025) 31 December 2025 • Updated for tax year 2025–26 End of year is the right time to review tax, super, banking, and visa status. As 2025 closes, new migrants in Australia should review tax obligations , superannuation accounts , banking setup , and visa compliance . This checklist ensures you start 2026 financially organised and legally compliant. Tax: lodge, records, offsets Superannuation: consolidate and review Banking: accounts, savings, transfers Visa: work rights and compliance Budget: set goals for 2026 FAQs 1. Tax: Lodge, Records, Offsets Check your TFN: ensure it’s linked to employers and bank accounts. myGov + ATO: link your ATO account to view income, PAYG, and deductions. Keep records: work-related expenses, transport, home office, courses, tools, uniforms. Offsets: ...

Australia Banking for Newcomers: Everyday, Savings, and International Transfers (2025) 19 October 2025 • Updated for 2025 Open an everyday account first. Add savings and transfers once you settle. New to Australia? This 2025 guide shows how to open an everyday transaction account , choose a savings account that actually pays interest, and set up international transfers safely. It also covers PayID/Osko , BPAY , debit cards, and key fees to watch. Account types explained Eligibility and documents How to open your account Common fees and how to avoid them PayID, Osko, BPAY, and daily payments Savings accounts: how to earn the headline rate International transfers: options and checks Security tips FAQs Account Types Explained Everyday transaction account — for salary, bills, debit card, ATM withdrawals, and contactless paym...

Opening a Bank Account in Australia as a New Migrant: Complete Guide 7 September 2025 • Updated for 2025 Start here: ID, TFN, and the steps to open your account. Moving to Australia? This guide explains how to open an everyday bank account in 2025, what identification you need, whether you can start the process from overseas, how to avoid common fees, and how to use PayID/Osko for instant payments. Account types overview Eligibility and documents Open before you arrive? Step-by-step setup Fees and how to avoid them PayID, Osko and daily payments Notes for students Security and fraud tips FAQs Account Types Overview Most newcomers start with an everyday transaction account for salary and bills, plus an optional online saver for cash you don’t spend. You’ll receive a debit card (Visa/Mastercard) for EFTPOS, contactless, and onl...

How to Exchange Currency Cheaply When Moving to Australia One of the smartest financial moves you can make before relocating to Australia is exchanging your currency at the best possible rate. Avoiding hidden fees and poor exchange rates can save you hundreds of dollars. 1. Don’t Exchange at the Airport Airport exchange counters often have the worst rates and high commission fees. Avoid them unless absolutely necessary. 2. Use Online Currency Exchange Services Wise: Mid-market rates and low transparent fees. Revolut: App-based exchange with no markups on weekdays. OFX: Great for large transfers with no transfer fee over certain limits. 3. Prepare Before You Arrive Download and set up your preferred app (Wise, Revolut, etc.) Verify your identity before departure Convert and hold AUD digitally until you need to withdraw locally 4. Compare Exchange Rates Always compare rates between apps and local money changers using tools like Google Ex...

How to Set Up a Bank Account Before Arriving in Australia Setting up a bank account before landing in Australia can save you time, reduce stress, and help you manage finances from day one. Fortunately, many major banks in Australia allow newcomers to open accounts online before arrival. 1. Why Open a Bank Account in Advance? Receive international funds (e.g., tuition fees, living expenses) Speed up settlement process after landing Start using debit cards and mobile banking apps immediately 2. Recommended Banks That Support Pre-Arrival Setup Commonwealth Bank (CBA): Open online and verify ID after arrival ANZ Bank: Allows up to 12 months pre-arrival account setup NAB: User-friendly mobile app and no monthly fees for students 3. What You’ll Need Passport details Australian address (temporary or future residence) Visa Grant Letter (Subclass 500, 482, PR, etc.) 4. What to Do After Arrival Once you arrive in Australia, visit a local bank bra...

If you’re moving to Australia, one of the first things you’ll need is a local bank account. It will help you receive salary, pay rent, shop online, and avoid expensive international fees. The good news? Opening a bank account in Australia is surprisingly easy—even before you arrive. 1. Choose the Right Bank Australia has several major banks that are foreigner-friendly. The “Big Four” banks include: Commonwealth Bank Westpac ANZ (Australia and New Zealand Banking Group) NAB (National Australia Bank) All of them offer online account opening for international students, workers, and new migrants. 2. Decide When to Open You can apply for a bank account up to 3 months before arriving in Australia . Simply go to the bank’s website and fill out the online application form. Your debit card will be waiting for you at a local branch upon arrival. 3. Required Documents To open a bank account, you’ll need: Your passport Visa grant notice Australian address (can be...