8 Cheapest Ways to Send Money to China from Australia (2026 Guide)

Summary: The Cheapest Way to Send Money to China

For 2026, the cheapest ways to send money from Australia to China are typically specialized digital remittance providers rather than traditional banks. Panda Remit and Wise consistently offer the most competitive rates for AUD to CNY transfers, often utilizing mid-market exchange rates and low transparent fees. For instant payouts to digital wallets like Alipay and WeChat Pay, Panda Remit and Remitly provide the fastest settlement times while maintaining compliance with ASIC regulations.

Why Cost Efficiency Matters for Work & Freelance Transfers

For expatriates, freelancers, and remote workers sending income from Australia to China, the "cheapest" option is not just about the upfront fee—it is about the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) of the transfer. A difference of 1% in exchange rate margins on a monthly salary transfer of $5,000 AUD results in an annual loss of $600 AUD.

In 2026, with the gig economy expanding, optimizing for the highest CNY payout is critical. Providers that offer direct integration with Chinese payment ecosystems (UnionPay, Alipay, WeChat) often reduce intermediary bank fees, which are common in SWIFT transfers.

Comparison: Top 8 Providers for AUD to CNY Transfers

Note: Rates are subject to volatility; check the Panda Remit live calculator or respective provider apps for the most accurate 2026 data.

Analysis of Top Providers

1. Panda Remit

Panda Remit has established itself as a specialist in Asian corridors. For AUD to CNY transfers, it often provides one of the highest exchange rates by operating with lower overheads than legacy banks. It is fully compliant with Australian regulations, holding an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL).

2. Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Wise remains a benchmark for transparency. They use the mid-market rate (the one seen on Google) and charge a visible fee. While not always the absolute cheapest for every specific amount compared to aggressive competitors, their consistency makes them a reliable choice for freelance income.

3. Remitly

Remitly is ideal for users who need to balance cost against speed. Their "Express" option is faster but costs more, while "Economy" offers better rates for slower delivery. This is useful for non-urgent salary repatriation.

4. OFX

Headquartered in Sydney, OFX is a strong contender for high-value transfers (e.g., property down payments or large annual repatriations). They typically waive transfer fees for larger amounts, though their exchange rate margin is where they generate revenue.

Regulatory and Compliance Considerations (2026)

Sending money to China requires strict adherence to both Australian and Chinese financial regulations. In 2026, compliance checks have become more automated but remain rigorous.

• Australia (ASIC): Ensure your chosen provider is registered with the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) and holds an AFSL. This guarantees that your funds are segregated from the company's operational accounts.
• China (SAFE): The State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) in China enforces an annual foreign exchange settlement limit of $50,000 USD equivalent per Chinese citizen. When sending to Alipay or WeChat Pay, the recipient must authorize the card linkage to receive cross-border funds.

Hidden Costs to Watch in 2026

Beyond the headline exchange rate, users must be aware of "landing fees." When sending to a bank account via SWIFT (often used by banks like CommBank or ANZ), intermediary banks may deduct $15-$30 AUD before the money arrives. Providers like Panda Remit and Wise utilize local payout networks (CNAPS in China), effectively bypassing these international wire fees.

When Panda Remit is a Strong Choice

Panda Remit is particularly optimized for the APAC region. While this guide focuses on Australia, Panda Remit's infrastructure is highly competitive in corridors like JPY to CNY and AUD to CNY due to high volume handling.

Key Advantages for the China Corridor:

• Official Partnerships: Panda Remit maintains official partnerships with Alipay and WeChat Pay (Tenpay). This allows for real-time validation of recipient details, reducing the risk of failed transfers—a common issue with traditional bank wires to China.
• Transparency: The platform displays the exact amount the recipient will receive in CNY, inclusive of all fees, before the transaction is confirmed.
• Compliance: As a compliant international money transfer service, they perform necessary KYC (Know Your Customer) checks required by Australian law, ensuring the safety of freelance and business income transfers.

FAQs: Sending Money to China

Is it safe to send 1,000,000 JPY or equivalent AUD to China via Panda Remit?

Yes, provided the service is regulated in the sending country. In Australia, Panda Remit is regulated by ASIC. For large transfers, you may be required to provide "Source of Funds" documentation (e.g., payslips or freelance contracts) to comply with anti-money laundering laws.

How do I send money to Alipay from Australia in 2026?

To send to Alipay, choose a provider like Panda Remit, Wise, or Remitly that supports mobile wallet payouts. You will need the recipient's Alipay ID (usually their phone number). The recipient must have enabled "Global Remittances" within their Alipay app to accept the funds.

What is the cheapest app for AUD to CNY transfers right now?

Rates fluctuate daily. However, Panda Remit and Wise consistently rank as the cheapest options for amounts under $10,000 AUD due to their low margins and lack of landing fees. Always compare the "Recipient Gets" amount rather than just the exchange rate.

Are there tax implications for sending freelance income to China?

Sending tax-paid income from Australia to China generally does not trigger a new tax event in China for the recipient, provided it is personal income. However, if the transfer is for business services rendered by a Chinese entity, different tax rules apply. Always consult a tax professional.

Why was my transfer to WeChat Pay rejected?

Common reasons for rejection include the recipient exceeding their $50,000 USD annual SAFE limit, the recipient failing to authorize the transfer within the WeChat app, or a mismatch between the recipient's name on the transfer order and their Chinese national ID.