alzo

Hi. I am looking to getting my credit setup for the first time. Looking for recommendations on how to get this done. Would you'll be able to recommend a good bank or alternative financial institution where I can get one of those pre-paid style credit cards.

Thanks in advance.

Amazulu

Just get a normal credit card

Easy Peasy Japaneese.

commonwealth

you mean debit card?

alzo

i am looking for similar cards to the one that the article mentions. Hope this helps.

http://money.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=106689

harrip

I believe ANZ do them (http://www.prepaidshop.com.au/) but they tend to come with lots of fees. I'd take a look at a visa debit card.

lapin_windstar

I know that in the US people occasionally use secured credit cards to help build their credit - I assume that's what you mean by getting credit set up: http://credit.about.com/od/usingcred...ecuredcard.htm

But I don't think prepaid cards in Oz work in the same way esp if they're not even associated with your normal cheque/savings account. They look like gift cards more than anything else - if that is the case, then I don't see the advantage compared to the debit card on your normal account. Have you been into talk to your bank? If there's a way to sell you a credit card, I doubt they'll hesitate.

Deancm

I just can't see the point of pre-paid visa/mastercard in Australia when you can get a visa/mastercard debit card from your bank which would be much more cost effective and do the same thing.

alzo

Yes. That's what I meant. If a users credit is determined by a checking account with a debit card attached then that sounds good.

Thanks a bunch.

alzo

Any recommendations on who to start with for a mobile phone? Prepaid plan?

Amazulu

Telstra have the best coverage but are the most expensive. 3, Optus, Vodafone are all okay. Virgin Mobile and Crazy Johns have good deals. If you have an unlocked mobile, bring it and buy a PAYG sim card for $2.