Is it okay to use ATMs late in the evening in Australia or should I stick to daytime withdrawals only? I am a single woman travelling so want to be safe.
I spent a couple weeks in Perth and made all my ATM withdrawals during the day just out of habit. But one night I had to use an ANZ ATM near Northbridge around 11 PM. It was outside a supermarket and there were still people around, but I did feel a bit more on edge just being alone. Nothing happened, but if you’re like me and prefer to feel completely relaxed, daytime is better for peace of mind. That said, I met other travelers at my hostel who used ATMs late at night and had no issues. It’s really about where you are and how busy the area is.
I was traveling across Melbourne and had to withdraw cash late one night near Southern Cross Station. I found a Bank of Melbourne ATM inside a 24-hour 7-Eleven and it was totally fine. The store was busy and had security cameras. I also used a Westpac ATM inside Crown Casino on another night around midnight again, very safe because the area is active. I wouldn’t go to a street-corner ATM in a quiet suburb after 9 PM, but in busy parts of Melbourne, night withdrawals are not a big deal if you stick to trusted locations. Use your instincts and avoid deserted spots.
During my stay in Brisbane, I avoided using ATMs late at night, mostly just to reduce risk. Even though the city felt safe overall, I preferred withdrawing cash in the mornings when places were busy. I once needed to grab cash at 9:30 PM outside a NAB ATM near Queen Street Mall, and there were a few guys hanging around nearby which made me uncomfortable. I waited until the next morning. I always choose ATMs inside branch vestibules, especially the ones that need a card to enter they feel more secure and are better lit. Daytime just feels less stressful
I was in Sydney last month staying near Central Station and used ATMs several times after dark. I usually went to Commonwealth Bank or Westpac machines located right outside the branch entrances. These areas were well-lit and had cameras visible, plus there were still people walking around even at 10 PM. I’m a solo traveler and felt pretty safe, but I avoided sketchy side streets and never used isolated ATMs, like the ones next to gas stations. If you stick to machines near major streets or inside shopping centers, evening withdrawals are fine in Australia.
ATM location in Sydney confirmed - its there and safe during the day. Used my Visa card successfully.
TAB ATMx inside Capella Hotel Motel (side entrance) accepts Visa and Mastercard. Its not a bank ATM - its an independent one, so expect a standard A$3 fee. ATM worked and felt safe.