Quick answer: For international transfers and receiving foreign currency, start with Wise. For multi-currency card spending and travel, compare Revolut. Sign-up offers: Wise · Revolut.
This guide is based on each company’s public Australian websites (May 2026). Fees, rates, and promotions change — confirm in the app before you switch. Not financial advice.
Quick comparison
| Feature | Wise | Revolut |
|---|---|---|
| Main strength | Cross-border transfers & FX transparency | Multi-currency app + global card |
| AU regulation | ASIC (relevant services) | AU financial service provider |
| Everyday AU bank replacement? | Usually a complement | Usually a complement |
| Card | Wise debit card | Physical & virtual Revolut cards |
| Transfers | Core product; fees upfront | In-app quotes; AU fee schedule published |
| Our deal page | Wise invite | Revolut referral |
Wise — best for transfers and getting paid abroad
Wise discount code → · wise.com/au
Wise suits Australians who:
- Send money overseas regularly
- Get paid in USD, GBP, EUR, or other currencies
- Want local account details in multiple currencies
- Need a debit card for spending in foreign currency
Eligible new users via invite may receive a free Wise card or fee-free transfer up to ~A$1,000 — confirm qualifying spend in the Wise app.
Revolut — best for travel and multi-currency spending
Revolut promo → · revolut.com/en-AU
Revolut suits Australians who:
- Travel and want one app for several currencies
- Shop online in foreign currencies
- Want virtual cards and instant freeze controls
- May use optional investing/crypto features (separate risks)
Referral reward type and amount are set by Revolut’s current AU campaign — not fixed on coupon blogs.
How to choose
| Your goal | Start here |
|---|---|
| Cheapest transparent transfer to family overseas | Wise |
| Holiday spending in many currencies | Revolut (compare card fees vs Wise) |
| Investing in shares or crypto | Investing apps guide — different products |
| Food delivery codes | Food delivery guide |
Related Australian deals
Frequently asked questions
FAQ
- Is Wise or Revolut a bank in Australia?
- Neither is a traditional Australian trading bank. Wise is regulated by ASIC for relevant services. Revolut operates as a regulated financial service provider in Australia. Read each provider’s AU disclosures before depositing.
- Which app is best for everyday spending in Australia?
- Many Australians keep a main bank account locally and use Wise or Revolut for travel, overseas shopping, or receiving foreign currency. Neither fully replaces a major AU bank for every household need.
- Which app is best for international transfers?
- Wise is widely used for transparent cross-border transfers and mid-market-style pricing shown upfront. Revolut also offers international transfers with fees quoted in-app — compare both quotes for your currency route.
- Which app is best for travel?
- Revolut is popular for holding multiple currencies and spending abroad on its card. Wise offers a multi-currency debit card suited to spending in local currency abroad.
- What do new Wise users get in Australia?
- Eligible new Wise users via an invite link may choose a free Wise card or a fee-free transfer up to about A$1,000, with qualifying spend shown in the Wise app. See /discount-codes/wise/ for the current invite link.
- What do new Revolut users get in Australia?
- Revolut AU referral and welcome rewards change by campaign. Join via referral and check the Revolut app for the live offer — see /discount-codes/revolut/.
- Can I use Wise and Revolut together?
- Yes. Many people use Wise for transfers and receiving overseas pay, and Revolut for travel spending — each has separate terms and verification.
- Where do I find investing apps?
- For Sharesies, Stake and Swyftx, see our separate investing comparison at /compare-investing-apps-australia/.