Banking and currency
As well as any cash that you carry with you on the plane, you should remember to bring, or have access to enough money (approximately AU$3,000) to cover expenses for the first month, such as accommodation bond, utilities, books/stationery and food. There are money changing facilities available, including at the International Arrivals Hall of the airport if you don't have Australian currency with you.
Please check that any bank/credit cards that you intend to use will work in Australia before you leave your home country.
There are a variety of banks in Perth that offer student accounts, credit cards, cheque accounts, etc. To open an account you will need your passport and your ECU Acceptance Letter; your home country bank may have a connection with a bank in Perth which will make transferring money easier and quicker. Check with your bank before leaving.
Banks are generally open Monday to Thursday 9.30am to 4.00pm and Friday 9.30am to 4.30pm (except public holidays). Money may also be withdrawn 24 hours a day from Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs), and there is usually a daily limit of approximately $1,000, depending on the bank. ATMs are also located on each of the University campuses.
Below are some tips to remember when visiting Perth's banks:
- Certain foreign currencies cannot be deposited in Australian bank accounts
- Bank and personal cheques can take up to 10 days to clear
- Electronic transfer to your bank account may take 3-4 working days and
- You must complete an International Currency Transfer Report if you are carrying currency to the value of AU$10,000 or more into or out of Australia. Carrying currency of this value is unwise and NOT recommended