Listen to the conversation
Press ▶ Play conversation, or 🔊 on any line. Then try 🎭 Practise as "You": the other person speaks, and you say your lines out loud.
Key words and phrases
| Phrase | What it means |
|---|---|
| an everyday account / transaction account | An account for daily spending, with a debit card. |
| a savings account | An account that pays interest, usually with fewer free transactions. |
| a tax file number (TFN) | Your personal tax number. Giving it to your bank means you aren't taxed at the highest rate on the interest you earn. |
| BSB and account number | The two numbers people need to pay money into your account. |
| tap and go | Paying by tapping your card or phone on the card reader. |
| account-keeping fee | A monthly fee some accounts charge. Ask if it can be waived. |
Tips
- Bring your passport and proof of your Australian address.
- Apply for a tax file number online through the Australian Taxation Office. It's free.
- Ask about monthly fees, ATM fees and international transfer fees before you choose.
- Banks will never ask for your password or full card details by phone, text or email. That's a scam.
More everyday situations
- Seeing a GP (doctor)
- Inspecting a rental
- Calling a tradie
- Small talk at work
- Ordering coffee and food
Unofficial practice. We wrote these questions to match the official PTE Academic task types and timings. They are not real exam questions, and points shown are practice feedback, not a PTE score. For an official estimate, use Pearson's scored practice tests.
Frequently asked questions
What English phrases do I need for opening a bank account in Australia?
This page lists the key phrases with audio, then shows them in a real conversation you can role-play.
How can I practise opening a bank account in English?
Listen to the dialogue, then press the role-play button to take one part yourself. Say the phrases out loud.
Is this for beginners?
It suits learners at about A2 to B1. Beginners can start with the free Everyday English course.