You need an Australian bank account to get paid. With CommBank you can open one online up to 14 days before you arrive (or within 12 months of arriving), with no Australian address needed to apply. Then show your passport at any CommBank branch within 20 days to switch it on fully.
Last checked: 25 October 2026
CommBank Everyday Smart Access
One of Australia's big four banks. Open your account online before you fly, get your account details for your employer, and use your debit card in the app as soon as your ID is checked.
Why open it before you arrive
- Get paid from your first job. Employers pay wages into an Australian account, so having your BSB and account number ready means you can say yes to work straight away.
- No Australian address needed to apply. You can use your home address when you sign up.
- $0 monthly account fee if you are under 30. Over 30, the fee is waived for your first 12 months when you open through CommBank’s moving to Australia page, then a fee applies unless you deposit $2,000 or more a month.
- Free withdrawals at CommBank ATMs. Other ATM owners may charge.
- Bring money over cheaply. No CommBank fee on international transfers made in the app or NetBank.
- Debit Mastercard in the app, with Apple Pay and tap and pay once you are verified.
How it works
- Apply online up to 14 days before you land, or any time in your first 12 months.
- Have your passport ready, plus your tax identification number from home if you have one.
- Land in Australia and download the CommBank app.
- Visit any CommBank branch within 20 days with your original passport to verify your ID. Until then you cannot deposit money or spend, and if you miss the 20 days the account may be closed.
- Give your employer your BSB and account number, and give CommBank your Tax File Number (TFN) once you have it, so you are not taxed at the highest rate on interest.
Who can apply
- You must be 14 or older and arriving within 14 days, or have arrived in the last 12 months.
- Working holiday makers on 417 and 462 visas can apply. Visitor visas 600, 601 and 651 are not accepted.
- The account must be in your own name.
CommBank often runs welcome offers for new arrivals, such as cashback and a bonus savings rate. Check the CommBank page for what is on now.
Open a CommBank accountWhile you are sorting your money
- Need to move money from home or send it back? See money transfers and the Wise card.
- Get your Tax File Number as soon as you land. You need it for work and for your bank.
- Need a fixed address for your bank card and TFN letter? Get a TAW Mailbox in Sydney.
Frequently asked questions
Can I open an Australian bank account on a working holiday visa?
Yes. CommBank lets working holiday makers (417 and 462 visas) open an Everyday Smart Access account online up to 14 days before arriving, or within 12 months of arriving. You verify your ID with your passport at a branch within 20 days.
Do I need an Australian address to open the account?
No, not to apply. You give your Australian address when you verify your ID at the branch. If you do not have one yet, a TAW Mailbox gives you a fixed Sydney address for your mail.
Is there a monthly fee?
The Everyday Smart Access account has a $0 monthly fee if you are under 30. If you are 30 or over, CommBank waives it for your first 12 months when you open through its moving to Australia page. After that it is waived in any month you deposit $2,000 or more.
Can I use the account before I verify my ID?
You can see your account details, but you cannot deposit money or make purchases until your ID is verified at a CommBank branch in Australia. Visit a branch within 20 days of opening or the account may be closed.
Official sources: CommBank: moving to Australia. Rules change, so always check the official source before you apply or sign anything.
Some links on this page are partner links. If you book through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps keep TAW free. Read more.