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A BSB number is a unique six-digit code that identifies a branch of an Australian financial institution, such as a bank or building society.
BSB numbers are also known as Bank State Branch numbers.
In Australia, you'll need a BSB number to set up a bank account, make payments, or receive funds.
What is a BSB Number?
A BSB number is a six digit identification number that tells you the state and branch your bank account was opened at. You can find your BSB under Account Details on your bank statement or just under your account name in the NAB app and NAB Internet Banking.
Some banks use one BSB code for all branches, while others have different codes for different branches. National Australia Bank, for example, uses BSB numbers to identify the bank and branch holding a bank account in Australia.
To send money from one Australian bank account to another, or to send money to an Australian bank account from overseas, you'll need a BSB number. This is especially important when sending money, as a wrong BSB number can send funds to the wrong place.
What Are Numbers?
Numbers are a fundamental part of our daily lives, and understanding what they represent can help us navigate everyday tasks.
A BSB number is a set of 6 characters that identifies where a bank account is in Australia.
Numbers are used to identify and categorize information, making it easier to manage and access.
The BSB number is used to identify the bank and branch holding a bank account in Australia.
In everyday life, numbers are used to convey information, from phone numbers to account balances.
Each branch has its own code, though some banks also have a single, centralised BSB for all their accounts.
What Is a Number?
A BSB number is a six digit identification number that tells you the state and branch your bank account was opened at. You can find your BSB number under Account Details on your bank statement, or just under your account name in the NAB app and NAB Internet Banking.
Some banks use one BSB code for all branches, while others have different codes for different branches. This can be important to pay attention to when sending money to Australia.
You can find a NAB branch or BSB code using our search tool.
Format
The format of a BSB number is quite straightforward. It's a six-digit code, usually presented as nnn-nnn.
The first two digits identify the bank, like National Australia Bank. This is consistent across all BSB numbers. Some banks, however, may use only one BSB for all branches.
The third digit represents the state the bank branch is located in. For example, the state code for Queensland is 4. This is a standard format used across all BSB numbers.
The last three digits identify the individual branch. This is what sets one branch apart from another. In some cases, banks may use two bank codes, one for trading accounts and another for savings accounts.
Here's a breakdown of the format:
- Bank code (2 digits): identifies the bank
- State code (1 digit): represents the state where the branch is located
- Branch code (3 digits): identifies the individual branch
This format is used consistently across all BSB numbers, making it easy to understand and use.
Australian Bank Codes
Australian Bank Codes are six digits long and are usually made up of three parts: the bank code, the state code, and the branch code. The bank code is the first two digits, which identify the bank the BSB is associated with.
The state code is the third digit, which represents the state the bank branch is located in. For example, the state code for Queensland is 4, while the state code for New South Wales is 2.
The branch code is the last three digits, which identify the individual branch.
Here's a breakdown of the state codes:
- 2 - Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales
- 3 - Victoria
- 4 - Queensland
- 5 - South Australia, Northern Territory
- 6 - Western Australia
- 7 - Tasmania
- 8, 9 - (intermediary)
If you're looking for a specific BSB number, you can use a BSB code locator online through the bank's website, or log on to the bank account online to find the number.
Using BSB Numbers
In Australia, BSB codes are allocated by the Australian Payments Network (AusPayNet). BSB codes are used in a number of payment systems in Australia.
To access the various clearance systems, a financial institution must have its own BSB or use an intermediary with a BSB. This ensures that funds are transferred correctly.
BSB codes are essential for electronic fund transfers (EFT) between bank accounts. For transfers using the Direct Entry system, BSB and bank account numbers must be given for the accounts to be debited as well as for the account to which funds are to be transferred.
The BSB number directs the payment to the correct branch, while the account number is unique to that specific account. This combination of numbers gives banks the information needed to transfer your funds correctly.
If you're sending money domestically within Australia, you'll need to provide your beneficiary's BSB code, account number, and personal details to make a transfer. It's as simple as that!
Here's a quick rundown of what you'll need to make a domestic transfer in Australia:
- Beneficiary's BSB code
- Beneficiary's account number
- Beneficiary's personal details (e.g. full name and address)
Share Account Number Safely
Sharing your BSB and account number safely is crucial to avoid any potential risks. You can do this by reading our step-by-step guide to learn how to share your BSB and account number securely from the NAB app.
To stay safe, you should use the NAB app to share your account information. This is a secure way to share your details.
Make sure to follow the guide to ensure you're sharing your information correctly. This will help prevent any issues.
The NAB app provides a secure way to share your BSB and account number. This is a reliable option to consider.
Remember to be cautious when sharing your account information. Only share it with trusted sources.
The NAB app is a safe and convenient way to manage your account information. This includes sharing your BSB and account number securely.
International Transfers
If you're sending money to Australia from another country, you'll need to use a BSB number and a SWIFT code.
You can use National Australia Bank BSB numbers to send money to an Australian account from overseas. This is a crucial step in making international transfers.
A BSB number is used for domestic purposes, but for international money transfers, you'll need to use both a BSB code and a SWIFT/BIC code. This combination helps identify where you're sending the money to.
For example, if you're sending money to an Australian account from overseas, you'll need to use a SWIFT code in addition to the National Australia Bank BSB number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a BSB number the same as a routing number?
No, a BSB number and a routing number are not the same, although they serve a similar purpose in directing money transfers. A BSB number is specific to Australian banks, whereas a routing number is used by other financial organizations worldwide.
Is a BSB number the same as a SWIFT code?
No, a BSB number is not the same as a SWIFT code, as BSB codes are used only for domestic transfers within Australia, whereas SWIFT codes are used for both domestic and international transfers. If you're making an international transfer, you'll need a SWIFT code.
How do I find my bank code and branch code?
Find your bank code and branch code on your bank statement or online banking account, or use your bank's website or a BSB checker tool for assistance
What is the BSB code for Bank State Branch?
A BSB (Bank State Branch) code is a 6-digit Australian sort code used for domestic and international payments. It's required for online banking transactions, especially when making international payments.
Is an IBAN the same as a BSB?
No, an IBAN (International Bank Account Number) is not the same as a BSB (Bank State Branch) code, although they may look similar due to formatting compatibility. Learn more about the differences between IBANs and BSB codes.
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