How To Open Commonwealth Bank Account In Australia

Opening a bank account is one of the first and most important things to do when living, studying, working, or relocating to Australia. Whether you are a citizen, resident, international student, tourist, or new migrant, having a functional bank account helps you receive payments, manage daily expenses, save money, and build your financial identity in the country.

Among all major banks in Australia, Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CommBank Website) remains the most popular choice due to its strong digital banking tools, wide branch network, easy account opening process, and friendly options for newcomers.

This is a break down everything you need to know about opening a CommBank account, including requirements, step-by-step procedures, account types, documents, verification, fees, and helpful tips.

Understanding Commonwealth Bank and Why People Choose It

Commonwealth Bank (often called CommBank) is Australia’s largest bank and one of the most trusted financial institutions in the country. Established in 1911, it has more than 15 million customers and dominates the market in digital banking, mobile banking, student banking, and international banking for migrants.

Why Most People Prefer CommBank

Easy account opening:  You can open an account online before or after arriving in Australia.

Excellent mobile banking. CommBank App, own one of the best banking apps globally.

Branches nationwide: Over 1,000 branches and 4,000+ ATMs.

Friendly for international students and migrants.

Debit Mastercard support: For online shopping, ATM withdrawal, and international spending.

Fast identity verification process.

Ability to open an account up to 3 months before arriving in Australia.

Whether you are relocating from another country, studying abroad, working in Australia, or simply opening a savings account, CommBank offers convenient banking options for every lifestyle.

Requirements to Open a CommBank Account

Before opening the account, you need to prepare certain documents and information depending on your residency status.

1. For Australian Citizens or Permanent Residents

You will need the following provided to before you can open account with CommBank Account:

• Australian Passport or Driver’s Licence
• Medicare Card (optional)
• Tax File Number (TFN)
• Australian residential address
• Phone number and email address

2. For International Students

CommBank is very welcoming to international students. You will need:

• A valid international passport
• Australian student visa (or visa grant letter)
• Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE) from your school
• Overseas or Australian address
• Contact details (email + phone number)
• You can open the account up to 3 months before arriving in Australia, then verify your identity after arrival.

3. For New Migrants or Working Visa Holders

You will need the following:

• Passport
• Visa grant letter or immigration documents
• Overseas or Australian address
• Arrival date confirmation (optional)

You can open the account before arrival or once you land in Australia.

4. Optional – But Highly Recommended

Tax File Number (TFN) – Helps avoid paying higher tax on interest.

Proof of address – Some branches may request it after you arrive.

Types of CommBank Accounts You Can Open

CommBank offers several account types. Choosing the right one depends on your purpose.

1. Smart Access Account (Everyday Banking)

This is the most common account for daily spending and receiving money.

Features of Smart Access CommBank Account:

• Debit Mastercard
• ATM access
• Internet & mobile banking (CommBank App)
• Salary payments, subscriptions, and transfers
• Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay
• This is recommended for:
• Students
• Workers
• New migrants
• Locals needing a main bank account

2. NetBank Saver CommBank Account (Online Savings Account)

This is a high-interest online savings account.

Features Of NetBank Saver CommBank Account:

• Earn interest on savings
• No card access (linked to a Smart Access account)
• No monthly fees
• Withdrawal anytime

3. GoalSaver CommBank Account

A savings account designed to help you develop saving habits.

Features Of  GoalSaver  CommBank Account:

• Bonus interest when you deposit monthly
• Good for saving goals
• App tracking and savings tools

4. Term Deposit Account

Ideal for people who want to lock savings for 3 months, 6 months, or 12 months at a fixed interest rate.

Features Of Term Deposit CommBank Account:

• It is Guaranteed interest
• It has No risk of loss
• It has a Minimum deposit applies

Step-by-Step Guide to Opening a CommBank Account Online

Opening your account online is the easiest method, especially for students or migrants who haven’t yet arrived in Australia.

Step 1: Visit the CommBank Website

Go to the official Commonwealth Bank website and select “Open a bank account”

You will be asked to select the type of account you want usually such as Smart Access + NetBank Saver

Step 2: Fill Out Your Personal Information

You will enter:

• Full Name
• Date of Birth
• Email Address
• Phone Number
• Residential Address (overseas or Australian)
• Passport Details
• Visa type (if applicable)
• Make sure the information matches your passport.

Step 3: Receive Your New Account Number

• Once you complete the online form, CommBank instantly creates your account and sends your account details to your email.
• If you are still overseas, the account will remain limited until you arrive in Australia.

Step 4: Visit a Branch to Verify Identity (Important!)

When you arrive in Australia, go to any CommBank branch with:

• Passport
• Visa documents
• Arrival details
• A bank officer will take your photo and confirm your identity.
• This must be done within 20–90 days, depending on your account type.
• Step 5: Receive Your Debit Mastercard
• After verification, the bank will:
• Issue a debit card on the spot OR
• Mail it to your Australian address
• You can now use:
• ATMs
• EFTPOS machines
• Online shopping
• Mobile banking apps

PAGE 5 – How to Open a CommBank Account in a Branch

If you prefer face-to-face service, you can walk into any CommBank branch.

Step 1: Gather All Required Documents

Bring:

• Passport (for non-citizens)
• Driver’s licence (for locals)
• Visa grant notice
• COE (for students)
• Tax File Number (optional)
• Residential Address

Step 2: Meet With a Bank Staff Member

A customer service officer will assist you in choosing the right account.

They will help you:

• Open the Smart Access account
• Open a savings account (NetBank Saver or GoalSaver)
• Link both accounts
• Set up your customer profile

Step 3: Identity Verification

They will verify your identity through:

• Passport check
• Biometrics
• Visa verification system (Australian immigration database)
• This takes 10–15 minutes.
• Step 4: Activate Your Account
• You will receive:
• Debit Mastercard
• Welcome letter
• Access to NetBank (online banking)
• Access to CommBank App
• You can now deposit money, receive salary, and start banking instan

PAGE 6 – Fees, Tips, and Final Advice for New Customers

Monthly Fees

• Smart Access Account has a small monthly fee, but students and people under 25 may be exempt.
• Savings accounts usually have no monthly fees.
• Helpful Tips for Opening Your CommBank Account

1. Open your account before you arrive

This saves time and allows you to send money ahead of your trip.

2. Get a TFN to avoid higher taxes

Submitting your TFN prevents automatic withholding tax on interest earnings.

3. Download the CommBank App From Play Store

The app helps with:

• Transfers
• Bill payments
• Savings tracking
• Spending insights
• Card control

4. Ask for a “Travel Card” if you plan to travel

Useful for holding foreign currencies.

5. Always verify your identity on time

If you fail to visit a branch for verification, the bank may freeze or close your account.

Frequently asked questions about commonwealth bank (commbank) in Australia.

Here are 10 frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Commonwealth Bank (CommBank) in Australia.

1. What is Commonwealth Bank ?

CommBank is one of Australia's largest banks, offering services like everyday accounts, savings, loans, credit cards, business banking, and international banking. It’s known for its large branch network and easy-to-use mobile app.

2. Can foreigners or new migrants open a CommBank account?

Yes. International students, temporary residents, permanent migrants, and visitors can open an account even before arriving in Australia. They must verify their identity in a branch after arrival.

3. Can I open a CommBank account online?

Absolutely. Most everyday and savings accounts can be opened online using a passport, driver’s licence, or other accepted ID. Migrants can also open an account online from overseas.

4. What do I need to open a CommBank account?

You’ll need:

• valid ID (passport, Australian ID, or driver’s licence)
• an Australian address (or overseas address for migrants)
• a phone number and email
• optional: Tax File Number (TFN) to avoid extra tax on interest

5. What is the most popular CommBank account?

The Smart Access account is the most popular everyday transaction account. It comes with a Debit Mastercard, ATM access, and full mobile/online banking.

6. How long does it take to get a debit card?

Usually 3–7 business days if mailed to your address.

If you verify your identity in a branch, some locations give a card instantly.

7. Does CommBank charge monthly fees?

Some accounts have monthly fees, but many are waived for:

• students
• young adults
• new migrants
• customers maintaining a certain balance
• eligible pensioners

8. Is the CommBank app reliable?

Yes. The CommBank app is one of the highest-rated banking apps in Australia. It allows transfers, bill payments, card control, savings goals, and real-time spending tracking.

9. Can I send and receive international money transfers?

Yes. CommBank supports international payments through:

• the CommBank app
• NetBank
• branches
• However, international transfer fees apply unless using Global Wallet or a partner service.

10. What should I do if I lose my debit card?

You can freeze, cancel, or replace your card instantly through the CommBank app or NetBank. A new card can be mailed to your address or picked up at selected branches.

Conclusion: Opening a Commonwealth Bank account is a straightforward process whether you are a resident, student, worker, or newcomer. With flexible online applications, simple documentation, and an excellent banking app, CommBank remains one of the easiest banks to join in Australia.

By following the steps in this guide choosing the right account, preparing your documents, applying online or in-branch, and verifying your identity you can start managing your finances smoothly and confidently in Australia.