brian.w

Hi there im going on a working holiday next year for 12 months, i have just got myself a nationwide flexaccount so i can use it over in australia as there is no fees when used at atm machines.

What i need to know is would this be best for me or would i best open a australian bank account as well i believe most employers will pay into an australian bank account anyway so will be usefull to have one.

Would i best put all my money into the australian account when its opened so i have more dollars for my money or just use my nationwide flex account if and when its needed.

I have read on this forums thats hsbc might be the best option is this correct?

Im not sure if to open an oz account and transfer my money or just leave my flex account as is and use when needed.

any info would be great.

CHnJ

Commonwealth Bank have a limited access account called EzyBank in cooperation with Woolworths supermarkets. It has no charges and gives you a cashcard, phone and net banking. I think it was designed as a sop to the poor when they introduced charges across the board, but it works fine for your purposes. Get a tax file number and an Aussie relatives/friends address for correspondance first.

bondipom

Open an Oz account and have your pay put into it. That is what I did 5 years ago. If you are bringing over your 2000 quid you are supposed to have then you may want to think about wiring it over or having an international monetary order made out in your name (better exchange rate).

www.hsbc.com.au
www.anz.com.au
www.westpac.com.au

Check the above sites for details on available banks. The fees are a nightmare so shop around.

renth

Make sure you get a credit card too, for "emergencies"

bondipom

I guess you mean UK credit card as Aussie CCs are a bugger to get on WHVs.

renth

Damn right. I wish I'd had one on my WHV when some ****** stole my mororbike and the insurance company refused to pay out.

I was broke but still needed money for essentials, like beer.