BANKING

Australia has a large range of financial institutions, and an extensive network of automatic teller machines (ATMs). Banks in Australia also provide internet banking services. If you need to go into a bank office personally, banking hours are generally 9.30 am to 4.00 pm Monday to Friday, with some banks opening on Saturdays. All major banks have a branch in cities and regional centers. Traveler cheques are easier to use if already in Australian dollars, however, banks will cash travelers cheques in virtually any currency. Major hotels and some shops, depending on individual store policy, will cash travelers cheques.

Most shopping centers have Automatic Teller Machines (ATM) facilities. These machines can be used for deposits and, in many instances, withdrawals 24 hours a day. Many department stores, supermarkets and specialist shops have electronic transfer terminals (EFTPOS) where cash withdrawals can also be made in addition to purchasing goods. Credit cards are widely accepted around Australia. The most commonly accepted credit cards are American Express, Bankcard, Diners International, MasterCard, Visa and their affiliates.

Australia’s currency is the Australian dollar. There are bank notes for $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100. There are silver coins for 5 cents, 10 cents, 20 cents and 50 cents. There are gold coins for $1 and $2.