Country guide

Business banking in Australia

Snapshot

You can open a business account in Australia in a few steps once your business is registered. Several fintech providers and the major banks accept Australian businesses, and some accounts carry no monthly fee.

Can a non resident open
Possible, but the business must be registered in Australia with an Australian address, and some banks want at least one resident director.
Typical timeline
Often a few business days for fintech accounts, longer for the major banks.
Free account available
Yes, several accounts have a no monthly fee option as of 26 May 2026. Verify with the provider.
Most providers
Multiple business accounts
Fees and features as of 26 May 2026Last reviewed 26 May 2026

General information, not financial, legal, or tax advice. Verify current terms and eligibility with the provider before applying.

To open a business account in Australia you usually need an Australian Business Number, identity documents for the directors and beneficial owners, and proof of a business address. Fintech providers such as Wise Business and Airwallex offer fully digital onboarding once your Australian registration is in place. The major banks may ask at least one signatory to verify in person. Fees and eligibility shown as of 26 May 2026.

How business banking works in Australia

Australian business banking splits into two broad groups. The major banks, Commonwealth Bank, Westpac, NAB and ANZ, offer transaction accounts, lending and branch access. Fintech providers such as Wise Business, Airwallex and Revolut Business focus on multi currency accounts, online onboarding and lower everyday fees. Which group fits depends on whether you value branch access and lending or low cost international payments.

Who can open a business account

Registered Australian businesses can open an account, including sole traders, companies, partnerships and non profits. Most providers require an Australian Business Number, and companies registered with ASIC also need an Australian Company Number. Identity verification is required for directors and beneficial owners.

Traditional banks compared with neobanks

The major banks suit businesses that want lending, cash handling and branch support. Fintech providers suit businesses that send and receive money across currencies and prefer to manage everything online. Many businesses use one of each. Compare current fees and features before you decide, because terms change.

Requirements and documents

Documents vary by provider and by business structure. A typical application asks for the following, as of 26 May 2026. Verify with the provider

  • An Australian Business Number, plus an Australian Company Number if you are a registered company.
  • Identity documents for each director and beneficial owner, such as a passport or driver licence.
  • Proof of a business address, for example a lease or a utility bill.

How to open an account

  1. Register your business and obtain your Australian Business Number, and an Australian Company Number if you are a company.
  2. Choose a provider and gather identity and address documents for the directors and beneficial owners.
  3. Apply online or in branch, complete identity verification, then confirm current fees and terms with the provider before you fund the account.

Compare business accounts available in Australia

These providers accept business customers in Australia. Fees and eligibility shown as of 26 May 2026. Confirm current terms with the provider before applying.

Compare business accounts →

Questions about business banking in Australia

Can a non resident open a business account in Australia?
Yes in many cases, but the business must be registered in Australia with an Australian address, and some banks want at least one resident director. Fintech providers offer digital onboarding once your Australian registration is in place. Verify current rules with the provider.
Do I need an Australian Business Number to open a business account?
Most providers ask for an Australian Business Number. Companies registered with ASIC also need an Australian Company Number. Requirements vary, so confirm with the provider before applying.
Is there a business account with no monthly fee in Australia?
Yes, several accounts have a no monthly fee option as of 26 May 2026, including some major bank transaction accounts and fintech accounts such as Wise Business. Other accounts charge a monthly fee or apply conditions. Check current fees with the provider.
How long does it take to open a business account in Australia?
Fintech accounts are often verified within a few business days once documents are uploaded. The major banks can take longer, especially where an in person check is required. Timelines shown as of 26 May 2026.

Fees, features, and eligibility change and vary by region. This page was last reviewed on 26 May 2026. Confirm current terms with the provider before applying.

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