8 of the Best Ways to Send Money from Australia to South Africa

How to avoid high fees and bad exchange rates.

Whether you're sending money to South Africa for the first time, or if you're doing it frequently - it pays to know the cheaper options.

At The Currency Shop we help you compare money transfer providers to find the best exchange rates and lowest fees right now. Leaving you more time and energy to conquer the world.

Compare the Best Money Transfer Rates to South Africa from Australia

The best deal for you

TorFXRead ReviewTotal (ZAR)R99,824.37Exchange Rate9.9824Transfer Fees$0.00Transfer Time2-3 DaysLearn MoreTotal (ZAR)R99,824.37Rate Updated less than 5 mins ago
So, sending 10,000 AUD to South Africa comes to R99,824.37 with no fees.
GO TO SITE
So, sending 10,000 AUD to South Africa comes to R99,824.37 with no fees.

About TorFX

TorFX are particularly good taking care of customers over the phone but using their website isn't the easiest to use. They don't charge a flat fee which is great but it's important to consider their exchange rates. While, they don't offer fantastic rates for small amounts under $2000 , TorFX offer exceptionally good exchange rates for larger transfers to the UK, New Zealand, South Africa and Europe.

Pros

  • No transfer fees
  • Highly competitive exchange rates
  • Secure transfers with authorised
  • Assigned account manager
  • 24 / 7 Assistance
  • Available range of transfer options

Cons

  • Limited exotic currencies available
  • Exchange rates on small transfers aren't great
  • Website experience could be better

More trusted money transfer options

Provider Exchange Rate Transfer Fees Transfer TimeTotal (ZAR) Rate Updated less than 5 mins ago
TransferwiseRead ReviewTotal (ZAR)R99,624.22R200.15 more expensive Exchange Rate10.0326 Transfer Fees$69.95 Transfer Time1-2 DaysGet discounted rate R99,624.22R200.15 more expensive GO TO SITE
So, sending 10,000 AUD to South Africa comes to R99,624.22 including $69.95 in fees

About TransferWise

Transparency and an easy online experience are the 2 things that set TransferWise apart from the banks and other money transfer companies. If you prefer to bank online, you'll like TransferWise. Setting up an account and making a transfer is very easy. They are also very clear on the exchange rate and fees you'll pay before you make a transfer. Click here for the full review

Pros

  • Clear and transparent exchange rates fees
  • The online experience is first class
  • Like the banks, they are regulated by ASIC and registered with AFSL
  • Constantly bringing out new innovative products

Cons

  • There are currently a number of global currencies they do not currently support
  • Limited support based in Australia
  • Percentage based fee can add up on very large transfers
WorldFirstRead ReviewTotal (ZAR)R99,523.39R300.98 more expensive Exchange Rate9.9523 Transfer Fees$0.00 Transfer Time2-3 DaysGet discounted rate R99,523.39R300.98 more expensive GO TO SITE
So, sending 10,000 AUD to South Africa comes to R99,523.39 with no fees.

About World First

World First was founded in 2004 in the UK and has grown rapidly with offices now in the U.S., Canada and throughout Asia. They consistently receive strong customer reviews and in a recent study, 98% of their clients said they would use them again.World First have a strong online offering, particular for businesses selling online. They do provide local support as well with offices in Sydney. Click here to read the full review

Pros

  • No fees and great exchange rates
  • Safe and secure transfers
  • Regulated by ASIC and registered with AFSL
  • Great for personal and business payments

Cons

  • Does not accept BPAY, credit card, cheque or cash
  • Limited currencies available
WorldRemitRead ReviewTotal (ZAR)R98,792.97R1031.40 more expensive Exchange Rate9.9051 Transfer Fees$26.00 Transfer Time1-2 DaysGet discounted rate R98,792.97R1031.40 more expensive GO TO SITE
So, sending 10,000 AUD to South Africa comes to R98,792.97 including $26.00 in fees

About WorldRemit

WorldRemit are particularly good for transfers under $10,000 to destinations across Asia, Africa and South America. Sending money online is significantly easier than using companies like Western Union or Moneygram and their exchange rates and fees are clear and transparent. With 2 million users, WorldRemit has a focus on improving access to remittances for the billions people worldwide who don’t have access to banking. Because of this, WorldRemit has a number of ways to both make and receive transfers. They concentrate on servicing individual needs as opposed to businesses. Click here for the full review

Pros

  • They have a great network in Asia and Africa and number of receiving options like cash-pick up or bank transfer.
  • They are clear about their exchange rates and fees
  • No minimum amount

Cons

  • Maximum transfer sizes for every transfer
  • No support for business customers
  • They are not licensed to provide financial advice.
OFXRead ReviewTotal (ZAR)R98,492.04R1332.33 more expensive Exchange Rate9.8640 Transfer Fees$15.00 Transfer Time1-3 DaysGet discounted rate R98,492.04R1332.33 more expensive GO TO SITE
So, sending 10,000 AUD to South Africa comes to R98,492.04 including $15.00 in fees

About OFX

OFX (formally known as Ozforex) is the largest Australian owned money transfer company. It launched in 1998 and grew rapidly until finally listing on the Australian Stock Exchange in 2013. OFX excels in 2 areas – Online experience and customer service. The company was born online and continues to develop easy, intuitive products. While OFX customers do most of their transactions online, they are backed up with exceptional customer service.

Pros

  • Better exchange rates compared to banks
  • Highly safe and secure transfers
  • 1 - 2 days delivery times for most countries
  • Quick response time
  • Fantastic customer service

Cons

  • Credit cards, cheques and cash are not accepted
  • Transfers to Thailand can take up to 4 days
  • Fees for transfers smaller transfers
ANZRead ReviewTotal (ZAR)R95,842.00R3982.37 more expensive Exchange Rate9.5842 Transfer Fees$0.00 Transfer Time1-2 DaysGet discounted rate R95,842.00R3982.37 more expensive GO TO SITE
So, sending 10,000 AUD to South Africa comes to R95,842.00 with no fees.
ANZ International Money Transfer is a secure and fast way to transfer money overseas.

Pros:

  • Fast transfers
  • Safe and secure
  • No fee for transfers under $10 000 via Internet banking

Cons

  • $12 fee for transfers under $10 000 via Internet banking
  • Poor exchange rates
  • 24 hour hotline not available
Commonwealth BankRead ReviewTotal (ZAR)R95,163.67R4660.70 more expensive Exchange Rate9.5278 Transfer Fees$12.00 Transfer Time1-2 DaysGet discounted rate R95,163.67R4660.70 more expensive GO TO SITE
So, sending 10,000 AUD to South Africa comes to R95,163.67 including $12.00 in fees
Commonwealth Bank provides secure and easy transfers to over 200 countries and more than 30 currencies.

Pros:

  • Fast transfers+ Easy transfers
  • Security guarantee covers any losses from unauthorised transactions

Cons

  • $6 fee for transfers under $1000 via Internet banking
  • $12 fee for transfers under $1000 via Internet banking
  • Poor exchange rates
Take into account that we have not compared absolutely every bank and company in Australia. We compare the large, safe and reputable banks and foreign exchange companies that we have already researched, tested and approved. We also may receive a referral fee if you choose one of these banks or companies, but that wont affect the exchange rates or fees you get.

How to send money from Australia to South Africa using a money transfer provider

  • Step 1
    SET UP YOUR ACCOUNT
    Thankfully, you only have to do this once. You'll have to register your details like name, address email and provide some identification.
  • Step 2
    MAKE YOUR TRANSFER
    You'll need to enter the bank account details of the person you are transferring the money to. This is also when you lock in the exchange rate.
  • Step 3
    PAY FOR YOUR TRANSFER
    Before the money is transferred overseas, you'll need to pay for it. All companies offer their bank account details for a direct bank transfer. Most companies offer Bpay and some even allow you to pay using a debit or credit card.
4 Tips for Making an International Money Transfer 4m 08s

So, what is the best way to transfer money to South Africa?

The best way to send money to South Africa can depend on your goal. Choose from the options below or compare exchange rates to find the best deals.

Sending money to family and friends

It can be hard living away from your family, especially if you're spending extended periods of time away from home. This is especially true when it comes to missing important events with your friends and family. If you're looking to send a small amount of money home, you want to be careful of any fees you're being charged. And if you're sending a large amount, it's even more important to take into account the exchange rate you're offered for the transfer.

This is the main reason why you should search for providers that suit your needs, and compare all your options before making a transfer.

When sending money family and friends, consider using TransferWise.

Why?

TransferWise offers you the wholesale exchange rate that you see on Google. They then charge you a percentage based fee, which can be reduced when you're transferring more than $10,000.

Related Review: Learn more about TransferWise here.

Pros

  • Clear and transparent exchange rates fees.
  • The online experience is first class.
  • Like the banks, they are regulated by ASIC and registered with an AFSL.
  • Their Borderless Account is like a foreign currency account.

Cons

  • There are currently a number of global currencies they do not support.
  • Limited support based in Australia.
  • Percentage based fee can add up on very large transfers.

Transferring a large sum of money

If you're sending a large amount of money between Australia and South Africa, the most important things to consider are:
1. The safety and security of your money.
2. The exchange rate being offered.
3. Any extra fees.

When transferring a large amount of money, consider using TorFX.

Why?

TorFX specialise in making transfers of higher amounts. A big reason why we like them for making large transfers, is that they provide a personal account manager for every customer. Having someone to talk to is particularly important when sending a large amount of money.

They also offer much better rates for large transfers and don't charge any fees. While their email and phone support is exceptional, their online platform is not the easiest to use. Which can be frustrating if you like doing everything online. Also, keep in mind that they may not be the cheapest option for smaller transfers.

Related Review: Learn more about TorFX here.

Pros

  • No transfer fees.
  • Highly competitive exchange rates.
  • Assigned account manager.
  • Range of transfer options.

Cons

  • Limited exotic currencies available.
  • Exchange rates on small transfers aren't great.
  • Website experience could be better.

Transfer money without a fee

Sometimes it feels like you get charged for everything.  Unfortunately, international money transfers are no different. Australian banks can charge you anywhere from $10 to $30 to transfer money overseas. But it's not all bad news. There are money transfer companies that let you do it without charging a fixed fee.

If you want to transfer money without a fee, consider using OFX.

Why?

OFX normally charge a fee for smaller transfers, if you use The Currency Shop's link this will be waived. Meaning you only have to look at the exchange rate.

OFX is the largest Australian owned money transfer company. They have an easy to use website and access to 24 hour customer support if you need it when making your transfer.

Related Review: Learn more about OFX here.

Pros

  • Better exchange rates when compared to the banks.
  • Highly safe and secure transfers.
  • 1 - 2 days transfer times for most countries.
  • Quick response time and good customer service.

Cons

  • Credit cards, cheques and cash are not accepted.
  • Have to sign up to get an accurate quote.
  • Can take a while to set up an account as they have very strict ID verification processes.
  • They are not licensed to provide financial advice.

Living overseas

If you’re an living overseas and transferring money internationally, every dollar counts.

The most important things to consider are the rate and fees. But you also want to use a company that is both licensed in the country you're sending money from and in Australia.

When transferring money to and from Australia, consider using TransferWise.

Why?

We like TransferWise for anyone living overseas, because of their Borderless Account which comes with a debit card. It's a multi-currency account with a debit card attached which is particularly useful if you are living overseas or travelling a lot.

It's also great option if you want to transfer money to and from Australia. Their pricing is always transparent and clear, and you can easily get a quote for your transfer without even signing up.

Related Review: Learn more about TransferWise here.

Pros

  • Clear and transparent exchange rates fees.
  • The online experience is first class.
  • Like the banks, they are regulated by ASIC and registered with an AFSL.
  • Their Borderless Account is like a foreign currency account.

Cons

  • There are currently a number of global currencies they do not support.
  • Limited support based in Australia.
  • Percentage based fee can add up on very large transfers.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to send money to South Africa?

Paypal and Western Union (cash pick-up) are the fastest options. The transfer can be done in minutes.
If you're sending the money to a bank account, it will take 1-2 days if you use a bank.
Or 2-3 days if you're using a money transfer company.

What information do I need to make a transfer?

To send money overseas, you’ll need the following information of the bank account you're sending the money to:

Beneficiary or Recipient Details

  1. The Account Name of your Recipient (person/business you're paying)
  2. Their address
  3. The SWIFT Code of their bank

Is it safe to use The Currency Shop to compare?

Yes. The Currency Shop holds an Australian Financial Services Licence (462269) and is a member of the Financial Ombudsman Service. We closely vet our providers and only partner with the largest, safest and most trusted money transfer companies in the world. That just makes sense.

How does The Currency Shop make money?

The Currency Shop does not charge you. Instead, we receive a referral fee from the banks and money transfer companies that we are partnered with. This does not affect the price you pay.

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