Finance Australia :: Articles

Choosing the Right Bank

How do I choose the right bank for my savings or transactional account?

Choosing the Right Bank

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

Financial institutions are located all around the world. If you are looking to open a bank account, whether that bank account is a transactional account or a savings account, you have a number of banking options.

In fact, you have so many options that choosing the right bank may seem like an overwhelming process.

To make that process easier, you will need to know what to look for in a bank.

Location is the key to many.

If you are interested in having easy access to a bank, you may want to consider doing business with a local bank or a national bank that has a local office in your area.

These banks are ideal for those with cheque accounts or debit cards.

You may find that using an ATM machine, other than the one provided at your bank, results in extra fees.

This is one of the many reasons why banking with a local institution is popular, because you will have easy access to your money.

Time to Refinance?
Image for Time to Refinance?If you are seeking lower rates, lower fees and more flexibility in your home loan. you are in luck! Our national panel of mortgage brokers is looking forward to an opportunity to assist you. Apply online for a free eligibility assessment and one of our broker network refinance specialists will get on the case to track down the best deal for your individual circumstances. Without any obligation and at no charge to you!

When finding the perfect bank for you to do business with, it is also important to determine what you want and need from a bank.

Whether you are interested in opening a savings account or a cheque account, it is important to examine the fees that each bank will charge.

If you are interested in opening a savings account for someone under the age of eighteen, you may find that you are able to receive a free account.

Adults, on the other hand, are often required to pay a monthly fee or maintain a certain balance in their account.

If you are interested in opening a cheque account, there are also a number of fees that you should be on the lookout for.

It is possible to obtain a free cheque account, but many of these accounts come with specific requirements.

You are likely to come across a number of financial institutions that require you to have a set amount of money in your account at all times.

It is also possible to find banks that grant you free cheques as long as you have your pay directly deposited into your account.

There are a large number of banks that will allow you to carry a debit card.

These debit cards can often be linked directly to a savings account or a cheque account.

It is important to determine if you will be charged for obtaining a debit card. Many banks charge an upfront fee, typically less than five dollars, for requesting a debit card.

A number of banks also change monthly fees for using a debit card.

The same can be said for cheques.

In addition to paying for new cheques, there are many financial institutions that charge their clients a set amount of money each time they want to write a cheque.

It is important to keep all of the above mentioned points in mind when searching for a bank.

In addition to determining the cost of banking with a specific institution, you are also encouraged to examine the level of service that you will receive.

You will want to do business with a bank that has a friendly and knowledgeable staff.

By visiting the bank or calling to speak with an employee, you can easily determine the level of service that you should expect to receive.

Choosing a bank is not a decision that should be made on a whim.

A bank is supposed to save you money, but without the proper amount of research it is possible to end up with one that costs you money.

Published: Wednesday, 25th Aug 2021
Author: 10


Finance Articles

An Insider's Guide to Enhancing Your Credit Profile for Any Loan
An Insider's Guide to Enhancing Your Credit Profile for Any Loan
Having a robust credit profile is one of the most critical factors for financial health, especially when seeking loans in Australia. Whether you're eyeing a new car, dreaming of a home or simply want to secure a personal loan for unexpected expenses, your credit score often dictates the outcome. Not only does it influence a lender's decision to offer you finance, but it also affects the interest rates you might be charged. - read more
Top Mistakes to Avoid When Saving for Your First Home
Top Mistakes to Avoid When Saving for Your First Home
Embarking on the journey to homeownership is both exciting and daunting. It's a significant milestone that requires careful planning and disciplined saving. For many Australians, buying a first home represents a dream come true, and it's essential to approach it strategically. - read more
A Complete Guide to Caravan Financing: Securing Your Mobile Haven
A Complete Guide to Caravan Financing: Securing Your Mobile Haven
Caravans have surged in popularity across Australia, offering an unmatched fusion of comfort and mobility. This beloved mode of travel grants you the liberty to discover hidden gems off the beaten path while bringing along the comforts of home. With the rise of remote work and the enduring spirit of wanderlust, caravans provide a flexible lifestyle choice for adventurers, retirees, and families alike. - read more

Finance News

First-Home Buyers Navigate Record-Low Affordability to Achieve Homeownership
First-Home Buyers Navigate Record-Low Affordability to Achieve Homeownership
03 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
Australia's housing affordability has reached unprecedented lows, with typical first-home buying households able to afford only 17% of properties sold last year. This stark reality is primarily due to the surge in mortgage rates between 2022 and 2023, which has significantly impacted purchasing power. - read more
Surge in First-Home Buyer Guarantees Reflects Growing Demand
Surge in First-Home Buyer Guarantees Reflects Growing Demand
03 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
In October 2025, the Australian housing market witnessed a significant uptick in first-home buyer activity, with 5,778 guarantees issued under the expanded 5% Deposit Scheme. This marks a 48% increase compared to the same period in the previous year, indicating a robust response to the government's initiative aimed at facilitating homeownership for first-time buyers. - read more
New Builds Gain Popularity Among First-Home Buyers Facing Market Pressures
New Builds Gain Popularity Among First-Home Buyers Facing Market Pressures
03 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
In response to recent interest rate cuts and escalating property prices, Australian first-home buyers are increasingly turning to new builds as a viable pathway to homeownership. The Reserve Bank's decision to lower the cash rate to 3.85%—the lowest in over two years—has enhanced borrowing capacity, yet it has also intensified competition in the housing market. - read more

Free Loan Eligibility Assessment

Loan Amount:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided free and without obligation by a specialist from our national broker referral panel. See our privacy statement for more details.


Knowledgebase
Amortization:
The process of gradually paying off a debt over a period of time through regular payments.