Back to: Frequently asked questions

 

• Can I use my Westpac bank account before I arrive in Australia?
• Can I get Telephone Banking and Internet Banking before I arrive in Australia?
• What is a BSB (branch number)?
• What is an ATM?
• Can I get an ATM card before I arrive in Australia?
• Can I withdraw money from my Westpac bank account if I don't have an ATM card?
• Do I have to deposit money into my Westpac bank account before I can start using it?
• How can I minimise my bank account servicing fees?
• Will the money I deposit into my Westpac bank account earn interest?

Can I use my Westpac bank account before I arrive in Australia?

You can deposit money into your Westpac bank account before you arrive in Australia. However, because of Australian law, you can't withdraw or transfer money until you've visited a Westpac branch and shown personal identification such as your passport and drivers licence. In Australia this is called the 100-point identification check.

Alternatively, you may also complete the personal identification check at one of our offshore offices. If you are unable to visit one of our offshore offices, please email us.

Can I get Telephone Banking and Internet Banking before I arrive in Australia?

Yes you can. All you have to do is call us on +612 9293 9270 to register for Telephone Banking and Internet Banking.

Please note: You won't be able to withdraw money from your bank account until you've completed your personal identification check.

What is a BSB (branch number)?

A BSB (branch number) is a 6 digit number that precedes your account number. It is the individual identification code for every Australian bank branch and allocated to every bank account held at that branch. You will need to quote your BSB along with your account number every time you want to access your account. A Westpac BSB starts with either 73 or 03.

An example of a Westpac BSB and account number is 732065 111111. In this example, the BSB is 732065 and the account number is 111111.

Note: In the United Kingdom, a BSB is known as a sort code.

What is an ATM?

ATM stands for Automatic Teller Machine. It is a machine which dispenses cash and provides limited account information and transaction options to customers. Some ATMs also accept deposits. You will need an ATM card to access accounts through an ATM. A Westpac ATM card is called a Handycard.

Can I get an ATM card before I arrive in Australia?

To apply for a Handycard you need to have completed your personal identification check and you need to have an Australian address. You can apply for a Handycard at any Westpac branch. A Handycard typically arrives within 5 working days of applying.

Can I withdraw money from my bank account if I don't have an ATM card?

Yes, once you've completed your personal identification check you have 3 options for withdrawing money without an ATM card:

• Withdraw money over the counter at any Westpac branch - you need to have photo identification such as a photo drivers licence or passport
• Transfer money over the phone or online - you need to have set up Telephone Banking or Internet Banking for this option
• Temporary cheque book - you need to ask for this at a Westpac branch.

Do I have to deposit money into my Westpac bank account before I can start using it?

Yes, you can't start using a Westpac bank account until you've put money in it.

How can I minimise my bank account servicing fees?

Look at your Terms and Conditions. For example, with a Westpac Choice account, if $2000 in deposits is made (e.g. your salary), between the 1^st and last business day of the month, the monthly service fee will be rebated.

Will the money I deposit into my Westpac bank account earn interest?

Yes, if you've opened a Westpac eSaver Account, you're able to earn interest on your deposited funds. See our current interest rates. The Westpac Choice account (transaction account) does not earn interest.