Setting up a bank account

How to Set up a Bank Account in Australia

You can choose to open an account in any Bank, Credit Union or Building Society in Australia.
Do your research to get the best deal. To open a bank account you may need:

your passport (with arrival date stamped by Australian immigration)
student ID card or Confirmation of Enrolment(s) from your education provider
money to deposit into the account (this can be as little as $10)
your Tax File Number (TFN).

Anyone who wishes to open a bank account in Australia must show several items of personal identification which are allotted a points system (100 points). Your passport and proof of your arrival date in Australia will be acceptable as 100 points if you open and account within six weeks of arrival in Australia. After this time you will be required to produce additional documentation. As a student you will be able to open an account with special student benefits. Many banks have 'Student Accounts' which contain no or minimal fees for transactions that might normally be attached to regular savings accounts. You will also require the student ID card from your institution to prove you are a student and should have access to the benefits offered by a student bank http://www.banks.com.au/personal/accounts/student-accounts/
Most people in Australia enjoy the convenience of Internet banking and/or Telephone banking, which enables them to manage their money, pay bills etc. from home. At the time you are setting up your account you can request these services from your bank.

Bank trading hours

Most bank branches are open from Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm (except public holidays). Some branches have extended trading hours during the week and may be open Saturdays (check with your individual bank). ATMs remain open 24 hours a day. However, you should be aware of your personal safety if accessing cash from ATM at night in quiet areas where there are not a lot of people around.