Millions of Australians send money abroad each year to support family, pay for education, or manage personal finances. In 2025, digital tools have made international transfers faster, more affordable, and more accessible than ever—but it’s still important to understand how the process works.
This guide covers how to send money internationally from Australia, including the types of services available, how to compare fees and exchange rates, and how to choose a secure and reliable method. Whether you send money regularly or occasionally, being informed can help you make smarter financial decisions.
Understanding International Money Transfers
An international money transfer is the process of moving funds from a sender’s account in Australia to a recipient in another country. Transfers can be done through banks, digital remittance platforms, mobile apps, or cash pickup services. Each method varies in speed, fees, and convenience.
Banks are often the traditional option but may charge higher fees and offer less competitive exchange rates. In contrast, dedicated remittance providers—such as Remitly—are designed specifically for cross-border payments and often offer faster transfers with lower costs. To learn more, read: What Does Remittance Mean? An Australian Perspective
Transfer options include direct deposits to bank accounts, mobile wallets, or cash pickups at local agents. Depending on the destination country, delivery speed and access options may vary.
Choosing a Money Transfer Method
When selecting a way to send money, it’s important to compare providers based on several key factors:
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Transfer fees: These can be flat-rate or percentage-based and may differ by destination and delivery method.
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Exchange rates: Small changes in exchange rates can significantly impact the amount your recipient receives.
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Transfer speed: Some services offer near-instant transfers, while others may take several business days.
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Payment options: Most platforms support debit cards, credit cards, bank transfers, or mobile payments.
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Delivery methods: Options include direct bank deposits, mobile wallets, or cash pickup locations.
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Security and support: Choose services regulated in Australia and offering strong customer support and encryption.
Matching the right method to your specific needs—whether urgency, cost, or delivery preferences—can improve your experience and ensure the funds arrive safely.
Sending Money Securely and Responsibly
Security is a critical concern when transferring money internationally. Using licensed and regulated providers ensures your transaction is protected under Australian financial law. Trusted services use encryption, identity verification, and fraud monitoring to safeguard personal and financial information.
Avoid sending money through informal or unregulated channels, which may lack consumer protection or traceability. Always confirm recipient details before sending and use two-factor authentication where available.
It’s also wise to track your transfer via email or app notifications and keep a record of each transaction. This provides peace of mind and a useful reference for future transfers.
Tips for Sending Money from Australia
Here are practical tips to help ensure a smooth and cost-effective money transfer:
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Compare exchange rates and fees before choosing a provider
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Use promotional offers for reduced or waived fees on first transfers
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Double-check the recipient’s name and account information
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Consider using a debit card instead of a credit card to avoid extra charges
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Schedule transfers in advance to avoid delays during weekends or holidays
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Monitor the exchange rate market if you send money regularly
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Keep digital records of each transfer for your financial tracking
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Avoid sending cash by mail or through unverified individuals
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Use platforms that offer multilingual support if needed
For more tools and tips on transferring money abroad, visit the Remitly Money Transfer Blog.
FAQ: Sending Money from Australia
1. What is the cheapest way to send money internationally from Australia?
Digital remittance services often provide better rates and lower fees than traditional banks, especially for frequent or smaller transfers.
2. How long does an international transfer take?
Delivery time depends on the provider and method. Some digital services offer same-day or instant transfers, while bank transfers may take 1–5 business days.
3. Are there limits on how much money I can send abroad?
Yes. Transfer limits depend on the provider, your identity verification level, and the destination country. Always check before sending large amounts.
4. Is it safe to send money online from Australia?
Yes, when using regulated services that follow Australian financial regulations and use secure encryption and fraud prevention measures.
5. Do I need to pay tax on money I send overseas?
Sending personal funds abroad is not usually taxed, but it’s advisable to keep records, especially if transferring large amounts or for business purposes.