Australia travel money tips
Heading to Australia? Here's a quick rundown of how to handle money on the ground — tipping etiquette, when to use cards versus cash, the best ATMs to use, and the most common pitfalls travelers run into. The local currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD, A$).
Tipping
Not expected. Round up or leave 10% in nicer restaurants for excellent service. No tip on coffee or taxis.
Cards vs cash
Effectively cashless. Tap-to-pay works everywhere, including buses, ferries, and food trucks.
Payment methods accepted
ATMs & cash tip
Big-four bank ATMs (CBA, Westpac, NAB, ANZ) are free. Standalone ATMs in pubs charge A$2–3.50.
Heads-up
- Many small businesses add a 1–2% card surcharge — they must display it visibly.
- Public transport in Sydney and Melbourne accepts contactless cards directly — no need for an Opal/Myki card.
About the Australian Dollar (AUD)
The Australian Dollar (AUD, symbol A$) is the official currency of Australia. Knowing the live AUD rate against your home currency helps you sanity-check menu prices, taxi fares, and souvenir markups while traveling.
More travel tips
See all country tips →Tips are general guidance for travelers, not legal or financial advice. Customs vary — confirm with local sources for important plans.