Bank Hours
Bank hours are usually 9:30 to 16:30, Monday to
Thursday, with an extension until 17:00 on Fridays, although in the
city centre hours can be 08:00 to 18:00 Monday to Friday. Building
societies are often open longer than banks.
Travellers Cheques
Traveller¹s cheques are most readily dealt with,
particularly if made out in Australian dollars, and typically receive a
better exchange rate than foreign currency. However, virtually all
banks will readily and efficiently change both, albeit with varying
charges so shop around. A passport is usually sufficient proof of
identity.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are widely in use and preferred by car
rental agencies but may not be so welcome in remote areas or smaller
shops. There is a belief that below about $20 a credit card is an
unacceptable form of financial transaction. Such small amounts should
be paid in cash.
If staying for any duration you could open a cashcard
account with a major bank, allowing you access to automatic tellers,
which are very widespread and open 24 hours. They permit you to
withdraw A$400 to A$500 a day and can be used to make calls in special
phone booths distributed throughout the country. They are also linked
to the ŒEFTPOS² system which can allow you to pay for goods and
services in certain stores. Most commonly these cards are tied to money
deposited in the bank. It is much more difficult to get a line of
credit card.
Currency
In Australia there are
100 cents to the dollar. Coins come in 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1 and $2
denominations and there are A$5, A$10, A$20, A$50 and A$100 notes. Any
quantity of money can be taken in and out of the country, although, for
amounts over A$5 000 you must complete a report form.
