Two girls enjoying the sun, sea, and endless possibilities

Tips on moving to Australia

Thinking of a move to Australia? Or just arrived? Make the transition less stressful with helpful advice for every step of the way.

Before moving to Australia

Your visa

You’ll need to ensure you have the correct visa if you plan to live, work, or study in Australia.

 

Visas on the government site

Your finances

Get organised. Cancel any direct payments and ask your bank how to manage your accounts while overseas.

 

Moving to Australia checklist

Your ID

Ensure your passport is valid and keep ID documents like a birth certificate or driver's licence handy.

 

How to verify your identity

Banking in Australia

Common bank accounts

  • Everyday or transaction account: Sometimes known overseas as a current or checking account. It’s a day-to-day account that comes with a debit card.
  • Savings accounts: Sometimes known overseas as a checking account. Generally, it allows you to earn interest on your balance each month.
  • Term deposit account: Sometimes known overseas as a fixed or time deposit account. Term Deposits offer a fixed interest rate on amounts set aside for a fixed time.

 

More on Australian banking

Setting up a bank account

To set up an account with Westpac you’ll need to live in Australia.
 
To open your account, you’ll also need:
  • A mobile phone
    A secure code will be sent to your mobile to verify your phone number.

 

Find your nearest branch

Overseas money transfers

To transfer your money to Australia, you must have an Australian bank account to receive the funds. We can help you with setting up your Australian bank account and any international transfers.
 
More on international transfers

We speak your language

If English is not your first language, we offer:

  • Language help and translation services
  • ATMs with 9 languages other than English
  • Easy English Guides for banking and other services.

 

Find out more

Setting up your Australian services

Australian taxation

Most Australian employers will require you to have a tax file number (TFN) for tax purposes. You can apply for a TFN through the Australian Tax Office (ATO) website.
 

Healthcare

Medicare is Australia’s public healthcare system. Permanent visa holders can use Medicare, while others may need private health insurance. Check if your current provider can support you in Australia.

 

Visit these government sites for:

Retirement funds

Superannuation (Super) is the system used in Australia to save and grow money for retirement. Employers pay your Super into a fund they use or one you’ve chosen.

 

Finding a home, utilities, and transport

Choosing where to live

Research living options in Australia, considering lifestyle, transport, schools, and budget. Renters must show sufficient funds and income.
 

Setting up your utilities

Once you find a home, you’ll want to set up its services. You can use comparison sites to help you choose electricity, gas, internet, and mobile providers.
 

Getting around in Australia

Transport in Australia includes trains, buses, taxis, rideshare, and airlines. If you drive, know the road rules and how to transfer your licence.
 

Visit these government sites for:

Working, studying or setting up a business​

Finding a job and starting work

Australia offers numerous job opportunities for both short- and long-term work or starting a business. Job search and networking sites could help you find work.
 

Studying at school or university

Australia has both public and private schools for preschool, primary, and secondary education. Our universities are known worldwide and offer degrees recognised around the globe.
 

Starting a business in Australia

Australia welcomes those who want to start a business. If you follow the rules and requirements, you can start a business without being an Australian citizen.
 

Westpac has all your banking needs covered

Banking and credit cards

Personal and home loans

Business and more

Westpac Choice for new arrivals

Open once you’re in Australia

Find out more

Give us a call

1300 558 724

8am – 8pm (Sydney time) 7 days
(you can ask for an interpreter for translation services if needed)

Calling from overseas?
Call charges may apply

Find a branch

Visit a branch when you arrive to speak with someone in person

Things you should know
Deposit Accounts for Personal customers Terms and Conditions (PDF 712KB) 
Online Banking Terms and Conditions (PDF 1MB) 
Personal Telephone Banking Terms and Conditions (PDF 215KB) 
Find out what information you need to provide to become a customer (PDF 657KB) 
Westpac Debit Mastercard® Terms and Conditions (PDF 210KB)

 

Before making a decision about any of our products or services, please read all the terms and conditions and consider whether the product or service is right for you. Fees and charges apply and may change.
 

The information and links on this page are for your information and convenience only. This information is not advice, a recommendation, or an opinion. It is general in nature and doesn’t consider your personal situation. We don’t have any direct relationship or gain from the third parties linked here. Their information may not be accurate or relevant to you.