How can I avoid ATM fees with my Australian debit card?
You can use the ATMs owned by your bank to withdraw money for free. For example, if you're with Greater Bank, you can access all Greater Bank ATMs for free. But did you know you can also access Big Four bank ATMs for free if you've got an Australian debit card?
The Big Four banks have removed the fees charged to customers of another bank when they use their ATMs. This means if you've got an Australian bank account with a debit card (like any of the accounts in the table above), you can use it to withdraw cash for free at all CommBank, ANZ, NAB or Westpac ATMs across Australia. The ATM operator (one of the Big Four banks) won't charge a fee, but your bank account may charge its own withdrawal fee (this isn't that common).
Other ways you can avoid ATM fees
Find a bank account which doesn’t charge ATM fees
Some bank accounts do not charge for ATM withdrawals at any ATM in Australia, even ATMs that aren't operated by the Big Four banks. For example, the ING Orange Everyday Account will rebate the first 5 ATM fees you pay each month. The Macquari Transaction Account charges no ATM fees at all. These accounts are free to open online.
Use a partner ATM
Make sure you’re aware of your bank's partner ATMs and you never miss out on an opportunity to make a free withdrawal. For example, CBA customers can also use Bankwest ATMs for free. And St.George customers can use Westpac ATMs fee-free.
Use ATM locator tools
Financial institutions all have tools on their websites and mobile banking apps you can use to find the closest ATM or branch where you can withdraw for free.
Get cash out over the counter
Woolworths, Coles, McDonald's, Shell or BP, major supermarkets, petrol stations and large retail chains will let you get cash out over the counter when you make a purchase. This comes in handy when you want to withdraw less than the $20 minimum available from ATMs. You can often do this yourself at self-serve checkouts for free.
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