Did you know you can open a Westpac bank account online in just a few minutes? Whether you're opening your first account, adding a savings account, or switching banks, it's quick and easy to get started. If you've just arrived in Australia, Westpac makes starting your banking journey simple. Here's what to know before opening your account online.
18th of November 2025
Generally, there are two types of bank accounts in Australia, transaction accounts and savings accounts. A transaction account, also known as an everyday bank account, is designed to give you readily available access to your money. A savings account on the other hand, is focused on helping you save money.
Savings accounts are ideal for both short-term and long-term financial goals. They're designed to help you reach your savings goals, where access might be limited so you can earn interest on your money. The way interest calculation works for savings accounts typically involves applying a standard or bonus interest rate based on your account balance and growth. This means you can benefit from a return on your savings over time.
Before you apply to open an account online, it’s important to make sure you meet the eligibility criteria. Generally, you’ll need to be a new customer, over 18 years old, and have a valid passport or other accepted identification. The online application process is designed to be quick and straightforward, allowing you to open a transaction account, savings account, or even a joint account in just a few minutes. When considering your options, take time to review the account’s terms and conditions, including the variable base rate, any charges or fees, and the criteria you need to meet to enjoy the full benefits of your new account. This will help you choose the right account for your needs and avoid unexpected charges down the track.
A transaction or an everyday bank account is used to:
Our Westpac Choice everyday account with debit card could work for you:
Or, if you're over 55, our 55+ and retired transaction account might be a better fit.
Savings accounts put your surplus funds to work by paying interest on the money you set aside for savings goals or unexpected expenses. Some savings accounts waive monthly fees or offer bonus interest if you meet a minimum balance or deposit criteria. Some accounts require no withdrawals within a month or a minimum deposit each month to qualify for bonus interest. Interest may also be calculated based on the end-of-day balance, so understanding your day-to-day transactions can help you maximise your returns.
An alternative place to save money and watch it grow is a Term Deposit, which pays a fixed interest rate on funds locked securely away for a chosen period. Term Deposits offer the certainty of guaranteed returns, providing reassurance and financial security. However, early withdrawal from a Term Deposit may result in reduced interest or fees.
Online Banking has revolutionised the way you manage your money, offering easy access to your deposit accounts anytime, anywhere. With just a few clicks, you can track your transactions, check your balances, and learn how to earn interest on your savings accounts. Opening an everyday bank account online takes only minutes, giving you the flexibility to start managing your finances right away. Online Banking platforms provide a wide range of tools and tips to help you make payments, transfer funds, and monitor your spending with ease. Whether you want to open a new account, review your recent transactions, or set up savings goals, Online Banking makes it simple to stay in control of your accounts and reach your financial goals faster.
Most Westpac accounts can be opened online, so there’s no need to visit a branch. Internet banking platforms also allow you to conveniently manage your accounts, apply for new products, and access a range of features. Even your identity verification can be done in an online application too, but sometimes you may need to visit a branch.
If you live overseas and are thinking about moving to Australia, you may be able to set up your account in advance of your arrival or apply online upon arrival in Australia. Once you arrive, you may need to verify your identity in one of our branches if we can't verify you online.
To save you time, if you want a transaction account for your everyday banking, plus a bank account for your savings, you can open both accounts online in one application.
When you open a savings account or Term Deposit online, you’ll also need to open a transaction account to transfer funds in and out of it, if you don’t already have one.
If you’re an existing customer, you can open an account in just a few taps on the Westpac App. Open the app, tap Products then Bank accounts. Choose the type of account you want, check the details and Open now.
To apply for a bank account online, you’ll need to be at least 14 years old with an Australian residential address. You’ll also need:
Only the forms of ID listed in the official documentation will be accepted. For a full list of ID documents, check our identification checklist for individual customers (PDF 657KB).
If you’re liable to pay tax in another country, you’ll also need your foreign tax details handy.
If your details are entered incorrectly or we’re unable to verify your identification documents, your application will need to be completed in a Westpac branch.
When you open a bank account with Westpac, you'll automatically be registered for Online Banking. You'll get an email confirming your new account details, including a temporary password.
If you open a Westpac Choice everyday account online, you'll receive a linked Debit Mastercard®. You can:
Activate your card in seconds in Online Banking or in the Westpac App. In Online Banking, go to Service>Services>Card Services and Activate Card. You'll need to enter the card number and expiry date and select activate.
In the App, search Activate Card, enter the card number, and tap Activate.
Once you open a Westpac Choice everyday account, you can access your money immediately with your Digital Card, so you can use your money while you're waiting for your physical debit card to arrive.
You can use your Digital Card to make online or in-app purchases, set up recurring payments, and add it to your digital wallet or wearable device to shop in-store.
Once you’ve opened your bank account, the Westpac App has plenty of budgeting tools to help you manage your new account. View your balance, track your spending, allocate spending categories, and compare your spending across those categories, all on one handy App dashboard. The app also allows you to place a hold on certain funds, so you can reserve money for future expenses or investment opportunities.
If you ever need support with your Online Banking or have questions about your account, there’s a wide range of resources available to help. You can contact customer service by phone or email, visit your local branch, or use online chat services for quick answers. Many banks also offer comprehensive FAQs and guides to help you navigate common issues. For convenient banking on the go, download your bank’s app to access your accounts, make tap-to-pay purchases, and manage your finances anytime. With these support options, you can save time, earn interest, and keep your accounts running smoothly, making it easy to stay on top of your banking needs.
Whether you're a seasoned customer or new to banking, opening a bank account online may save you time and give you convenience and flexibility when it comes to managing your finances. Thanks to the efficient and straightforward online process, you may be able to open your new bank account sooner than you think.
For Westpac issued products, conditions, fees and charges apply. These may change or we may introduce new ones in the future. Full details are available on request. This information is general in nature and has been prepared without taking your personal objectives, circumstances and needs and into account. You should consider the appropriateness of the information to your own circumstances and, if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice. Consider the terms and conditions and Target Market Determination for the product before making any decision.
Any tax information described is general in nature and it is not tax advice or a guide to tax laws. We recommend you seek independent, professional tax advice applicable to your personal circumstances.
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