What is the local currency?
The Australian Dollar is the local currency and each dollar is worth 100 cents.

What denominations does it come in?
Coins come in denominations of 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, as well as $1 and $2. Notes are $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100.

What is the best way to exchange currency?
Banks offer a currency exchange service. Some hotels will exchange major currencies for guests and there is a 24-hour agency at the airport.

What are commonly-used forms of payment for everyday purchases (such as groceries)?
Cash, credit cards (major cards are Visa, American Express, MasterCard)

Will I be able to use my credit card around town? If not, list when I’ll need cash.
The majority of places will accept credit cards, but smaller shops may require cash for purchases.

By what method are bills (such as rent and utilities) paid?
Bills can be paid by direct debit (arranged through your bank), phone or Internet payment with BPay, or credit card. Some bills can be paid at the local post office..

What are the requirements for opening a bank account? At what stage of the settling-in process should I open it?
To open a bank account you need to provide "100 points" of identification. Every form of identification you carry has a certain point value according to this scheme. (For instance, your passport is worth 70 points.) Any item that you use for identification, such as your West Australian driver's license (25 points), can contribute to the 100 points. When coming from overseas, you can open an account with only your passport within 6 weeks of your arrival.

Will foreign residents be able to find banking services in their native languages?
Certain banks can provide migrant facilities but this will depend on the individual banking institution.

Are there any restrictions on services for those who are new to your country?
No restrictions that are known.

What are typical banking hours?
Monday - Thursday 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Friday 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Are automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around the clock?
Yes, ATMs are available 24 hours

Is there any other money information that might help me?
Visa, MasterCard and American Express are the most common cards used and many credit cards are linked to loyalty systems where you accrue frequent flyer points and other rewards.