Switching Currency: Australian Dollars To Us Dollars

how to switch from australian money to us dollars

The Australian dollar is the fifth-most-traded currency in world foreign exchange markets, while the US dollar is the most used currency in international transactions. If you're looking to switch from Australian dollars to US dollars, there are several options available to you. You can use a money transfer provider such as Wise or Western Union, or you can use a bank or traditional provider. It's important to compare rates and fees between providers, as they can vary significantly, and some providers may add hidden markups to their exchange rates. You can also set rate alerts for any currency pair to be notified when the rate reaches your desired level.

Characteristics Values
Exchange Rate (AUD to USD) 1 AUD = 0.64317701 USD
Exchange Rate (USD to AUD) 1 USD = 1.5541698 AUD
30-Day Average (AUD to USD) 0.6435
90-Day Average (AUD to USD) 0.6339
30-Day Average (USD to AUD) 1.5542
90-Day Average (USD to AUD) 1.5782
Australian Dollar Ranking 5th most-traded currency
US Dollar Ranking Most used in international transactions
Additional Services Money transfer providers like Western Union offer online, in-app, and in-person transfers

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Using a currency converter

Currency converters are a great way to switch from Australian money to US dollars. They are easy to use and can be accessed online or via a mobile app. Many providers offer currency converters, including banks, such as Westpac, and online services, such as Wise and Xe.

To use a currency converter, simply input the amount of money you want to switch from Australian dollars to US dollars. The converter will use the mid-market rate to calculate the equivalent amount in US dollars. It's important to note that you won't receive this mid-market rate when sending money, as banks and other financial institutions may add fees and charges.

Some currency converters also allow you to track live exchange rates and set rate alerts for your desired rate. This can be helpful if you're looking to transfer money when the exchange rate is favourable. Additionally, some providers offer low or no fees on money transfers, which can save you money when making international transactions.

When using a currency converter, it's important to review the transfer details and currency carefully before confirming the payment. This includes checking the payee details, such as their bank name, account number, and International Bank Account Number (IBAN). You may also need to provide a reason for the payment, depending on the amount and the destination.

Overall, using a currency converter is a safe and convenient way to switch from Australian money to US dollars. It offers flexibility and can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection.

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Xe's exchange rate API offers real-time, accurate, and reliable data for hundreds of currencies. Their rates are sourced directly from financial data providers and reputable banks. You can also set free rate alerts for any currency pair, and receive notifications when your desired rate is reached.

Similarly, Wise provides the mid-market rate without any hidden fees or markups. They offer smart tech solutions that ensure efficiency and competitive rates.

Both platforms enable you to compare their rates and fees with competitors, encouraging transparency and informed decision-making when switching from Australian money to US dollars.

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Transfer fees

Bank Transfers

Bank transfers are a common method for transferring money between currencies. While some banks may offer competitive fees, traditional banks often charge higher fees for international money transfers. For example, CommBank's data from 2020-2021 indicated an average receiving fee of $6 USD for transfers to the US, excluding the recipient's bank fees. Other banks, such as Westpac, charge $12 for receiving money internationally. Additionally, banks may add hidden markups to their exchange rates, increasing the overall cost of the transfer.

Online Money Transfer Services

Online money transfer services, such as Wise (formerly known as TransferWise) and Volopay, offer convenient and often cheaper alternatives to traditional banks. Wise, for instance, allows you to send money from Australia to the US quickly and securely. They provide transparency in their fees, allowing you to see exactly how much you will receive on the other side. While Wise does charge a fixed transfer fee, they offer a $0 receiving fee for certain currencies, including AUD and USD. They also use the mid-market exchange rate, which can be more favourable than the rates offered by banks.

Payment Services

Payment services like PayPal can be convenient, but they often have unfavourable exchange rates, which can increase the overall cost of your transfer. It is important to consider the exchange rate in addition to any explicit fees charged by the service provider.

Credit and Debit Cards

Using credit or debit cards for international money transfers can be faster than bank transfers, but they may also be more expensive. The cost will depend on the specific card and the associated fees for international transactions.

It is always important to review the fees and exchange rates offered by different providers before initiating a transfer. Additionally, some providers may offer fee-free transfers but make up for it with less favourable exchange rates, so it is crucial to compare the total cost, including both the fee and the exchange rate.

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Sending money

There are several options for sending money from Australia to the US, or vice versa.

Wise

Wise is a money transfer service that allows you to send money from the US to Australia, or vice versa, quickly, safely, and at a low cost. Wise claims to have over 12.8 million users. You can send AUD to any bank account or PayID account in Australia, and your recipient does not need to have a Wise account to receive the money. However, if they do, you can look them up on the Wise network and send them the money in seconds. You can pay in US dollars by ACH, wire transfer, card, or using money from your Wise account. Wise also allows you to lock in an exchange rate for up to 48 hours.

Western Union

Western Union is another service that allows you to send money from Australia to the US. With Western Union, you can deposit money directly into a bank account or send it for cash pickup at over 59,000 agent locations in the US. You will need to register for a free Western Union profile to send money. You can then log in and choose the US as your destination, enter the amount you want to send (up to 50,000 AUD), and choose "Cash" or "Bank account" as the receive method. You can pay by credit card, debit card, or instant bank transfer. Western Union also offers an app and an online tracking tool to follow your money transfer in real time.

Xe

Xe is another option for sending money from the US to Australia. Xe offers an app and claims to provide easy, secure, and transparent international money transfers without surprise fees. You can pay by debit card, credit card, or bank transfer. According to Xe, you should allow 1-4 working days for your money to arrive, though many transfers arrive more quickly.

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Tracking your transfer

Use a Tracking Tool

Some money transfer services, such as Western Union, offer online tracking tools that allow you to follow your money transfer from Australia to the US in real time. You can use their app or website to track your transfer and even schedule transfers in advance. This way, you can ensure that your money is on track and will arrive when you need it to.

Unique Tracking Number

Many money transfer services provide you with a unique tracking number, also known as an MTCN, which you can use to follow your transfer. This number is typically found on your receipt or confirmation email. By sharing this number with your recipient, they can also stay informed about the status of the transfer and know when to expect the funds.

Payment Tracker

Some banks, such as CommBank, offer a payment tracker feature on their online banking platforms or mobile apps. This allows you to track the status of your international money transfer and stay updated on its progress. You can log in to your online banking account or app and use a unique tracking code to access the details of your transfer.

Exchange Rate Alerts

If you want to be proactive about tracking your transfer, you can set up custom exchange rate alerts. For example, the Western Union app allows you to set exchange rate alerts so that you can transfer your money at the perfect time. This can help you optimize the amount your recipient receives.

Customer Support

In case you have any questions or concerns about your transfer, you can always reach out to customer support. Many money transfer services, such as Western Union and Wise, have dedicated customer support teams that can assist you with tracking your transfer and providing additional information. They can help ensure that your transfer is on track and address any issues that may arise.

Remember to always keep your transaction details and receipts safe, as you may need them to track your transfer or for future reference. By utilizing these tracking methods, you can have peace of mind knowing that your money is secure and on its way to its destination.

Frequently asked questions

You can switch Australian dollars (AUD) to US dollars (USD) through a money transfer provider, such as Western Union or Wise. You can also use a bank, but be aware that they may have extra costs.

As of May 31, 2025, 1 AUD = 0.64317701 USD.

The 30-day high was 0.6504.

The 30-day low was 0.6373.

You can send money online, with a mobile app, or in person at an agent location, such as Western Union.

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