We’re reader-supported and may be paid when you visit links to partner sites. We don’t compare all products in the market, but we’re working on it!
This guide explains what information you will need to give the sender when you want to receive an international money transfer through Westpac and offers some alternatives to consider if you want to save money.
Where can I find the information I need to receive a Westpac transfer?
To receive a transfer from overseas using Westpac, you'll need to give the sender the following information:
Your account name, number and BSB: You will need to provide your name exactly as you did when setting up your Westpac account, along with your account number and BSB (bank state branch) number. You can find this information on your bank statements or your online banking site.
A range of fees may be involved with international bank transfers. These are typically taken from the payment, so it's common for less money to arrive than was sent.
Westpac takes a receiving fee when your money arrives, but a range of other fees may also apply beyond that.
Transfer type
Fee
Receiving money to a Westpac bank account
$12
Paid by bank cheque or cash
$22
Receiving money to an account at another local bank
$24
Monthly fee if you have a foreign currency account with Westpac
$5
Westpac's fees explained
There is a flat $12 fee for international payments received into a Westpac bank account, but the original transfer amount could also be reduced due to the following:
Sending fees. The first fee in an international bank transfer is typically from the sender's bank
Correspondent bank fees. International payments may pass through several different banks en route, and each may take a fee in the process. Each bank's cut may range from about $15 to $30 depending on the situation.
Exchange rates. Banks will typically process a currency exchange at below mid-market rates. A single transfer may also require multiple exchanges through an intermediary currency.
Additional fees. Additional fees may be charged for certain transfer types, such as international cheques or more complex transfer instructions. If the sender wants to pay the fees up front, that usually incurs an extra fee as well.
What form can I receive the transfer in?
There are several different ways you can receive a transfer.
Direct to your bank account. You can receive the funds directly to your bank account. This is usually the most convenient option, but won't suit all situations.
Bank draft. Bank drafts are IOUs from the sender, paid up front, which can only be deposited into your bank account. It's essentially like a bank deposit on a piece of paper.
Cheque. International cheques are just like regular cheques, but for overseas payments. They are paid at the time you cash the cheque, and so they might "bounce" if the sender doesn't have the funds in their account at the time.
Money order. Money orders are similar to bank drafts in that they are paid in full at the time of purchase, but they can be cashed in a wider range of locations including post offices.
Bank transfers are usually not the cheapest option for international payments.
If you're looking for a more cost-effective way to send money, try comparing some other options using the calculator below. Just enter your transfer details, and it will run the numbers and show you how much different services may cost.
The "Rate" and "Amount Received" displayed are indicative rates that have been supplied by each brand or gathered by Finder.
Exchange rates are volatile and change often. As a result, the exchange rate listed on Finder may vary to the actual exchange rate quoted for the brand. Please confirm the actual exchange rate and mention "Finder" before you commit to a brand.
Frequently asked questions
It typically takes several business days to process an international bank transfer. It may take longer if the transfer is held up en route by weekends or public holidays.
Andrew Munro is the cryptocurrency editor at Finder. He was initially writing about insurance, when he accidentally fell in love with digital currency and distributed ledger technology (aka “the blockchain”). Andrew has a Bachelor of Arts from the University of New South Wales, and has written guides about everything from industrial pigments to cosmetic surgery.
With bonus Qantas Points and a range of complimentary insurance covers, the Westpac Altitude Platinum - Qantas is worth considering if you want more frequent flyer points.
TorFX guarantees to match any competitor's exchange rate. Conditions apply. TorFX sends money overseas in 30+ currencies, with competitive rates for transfer amounts over $2,000.
Better exchange rates for Finder customers. WorldFirst sends 60+ currencies at competitive rates with no fees. If you find a better eligible quote, WorldFirst will beat it.
How likely would you be to recommend finder to a friend or colleague?
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Very UnlikelyExtremely Likely
Required
Thank you for your feedback.
Our goal is to create the best possible product, and your thoughts, ideas and suggestions play a major role in helping us identify opportunities to improve.
Important information about this website
finder.com.au is one of Australia's leading comparison websites. We compare from a wide set of banks, insurers and product issuers. We value our editorial independence and follow editorial guidelines.
finder.com.au has access to track details from the product issuers listed on our sites. Although we provide information on the products offered by a wide range of issuers, we don't cover every available product or service.
Please note that the information published on our site should not be construed as personal advice and does not consider your personal needs and circumstances. While our site will provide you with factual information and general advice to help you make better decisions, it isn't a substitute for professional advice. You should consider whether the products or services featured on our site are appropriate for your needs. If you're unsure about anything, seek professional advice before you apply for any product or commit to any plan.
Products marked as 'Promoted' or 'Advertisement' are prominently displayed either as a result of a commercial advertising arrangement or to highlight a particular product, provider or feature. Finder may receive remuneration from the Provider if you click on the related link, purchase or enquire about the product. Finder's decision to show a 'promoted' product is neither a recommendation that the product is appropriate for you nor an indication that the product is the best in its category. We encourage you to use the tools and information we provide to compare your options.
Where our site links to particular products or displays 'Go to site' buttons, we may receive a commission, referral fee or payment when you click on those buttons or apply for a product. You can learn more about how we make money here.
When products are grouped in a table or list, the order in which they are initially sorted may be influenced by a range of factors including price, fees and discounts; commercial partnerships; product features; and brand popularity. We provide tools so you can sort and filter these lists to highlight features that matter to you.
We try to take an open and transparent approach and provide a broad-based comparison service. However, you should be aware that while we are an independently owned service, our comparison service does not include all providers or all products available in the market.
Some product issuers may provide products or offer services through multiple brands, associated companies or different labelling arrangements. This can make it difficult for consumers to compare alternatives or identify the companies behind the products. However, we aim to provide information to enable consumers to understand these issues.
Providing or obtaining an estimated insurance quote through us does not guarantee you can get the insurance. Acceptance by insurance companies is based on things like occupation, health and lifestyle. By providing you with the ability to apply for a credit card or loan, we are not guaranteeing that your application will be approved. Your application for credit products is subject to the Provider's terms and conditions as well as their application and lending criteria.
Please read our website terms of use and privacy policy for more information about our services and our approach to privacy.