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Crypto-Friendly Banks in Australia

A guide to which Australian banks support crypto transactions — and which ones make it harder.

Johnny avatar
Written by Johnny
Updated over a week ago

When you buy or sell crypto, your choice of bank can influence how smooth your experience is. Some Australian banks generally support transfers to registered local exchanges, while others apply strict limits or block certain payments.

At Digital Surge, we regularly see that even the most supportive banks may still place temporary holds, run fraud checks, or request extra verification. These measures are usually part of their scam prevention processes.

That said, customers consistently report more reliable experiences with some banks and more restrictions with others. The information below is based on customer feedback and publicly reported policies, but each bank may update its approach at any time.


Banks that are generally more crypto-friendly

These banks do not impose blanket bans on payments to Australian crypto exchanges and are often reported to allow smoother transfers:

  • ANZ

  • NAB

  • Westpac

  • ING Australia

  • St. George Bank

  • UBank (NAB owned)

  • Bank Australia

  • Great Southern Bank

Most users transact without major issues, although occasional delays or verification calls can still occur, especially for first-time transfers or larger amounts.


Banks that are less crypto-friendly

These banks are known to apply stricter controls, lower limits, or outright blocks on payments to crypto exchanges:

  • Commonwealth Bank (CBA)
    Applies a $10,000 monthly cap on payments to crypto exchanges. Transfers are delayed for 24 hours.

  • Bankwest (CBA owned)
    Often follows similar restrictions to CBA

  • Macquarie Bank
    Widely reported to restrict payments to crypto exchanges.

  • Bank of Queensland (BOQ)
    Enforces a monthly cap of $5,000 for crypto-related payments.

  • HSBC
    Imposes a blanket ban on payments to crypto exchanges.


Key tips for banking with crypto

Use PayID where possible
PayID is generally the fastest and most reliable option, and it reduces the chance of delays.

Expect fraud checks
Even crypto-friendly banks may hold a transfer temporarily if they detect unusual activity or if it’s your first time buying crypto.

Stay informed
Banks may adjust their crypto policies without notice. It’s a good idea to check with your bank if you experience new limits or delays.

Have a backup banking option
If your primary bank becomes restrictive, opening an account with a more supportive bank can help avoid interruptions.


Need more help?

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our support team.

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