9 Best Ways to Send Money: Australia to China (2026 Guide)

Quick Summary: The Best Options for 2026

For large transfers from Australia to China in 2026, OFX and Wise are top-tier for bank-to-bank deposits due to transparent FX margins. For speed and mobile wallet integration, Panda Remit and Remitly offer the most efficient connections to Alipay and WeChat Pay. Always verify ASIC registration and check the total cost of ownership (fees + exchange rate markup) before confirming transactions.

Why "Best for Large Transfers" Matters for Migration & Overseas Work

When moving funds for migration, property down payments, or repatriating overseas income, the definition of "best" shifts from speed to cost efficiency and compliance. In 2026, regulatory scrutiny on cross-border flows into China remains high under the State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE). Using providers optimized for large transfers ensures:

• Lower Percentage Fees: Flat fees become negligible; the exchange rate margin is the primary cost driver.
• Compliance Safety: Proper reporting to AUSTRAC (Australia) and SAFE (China) prevents frozen funds.
• Higher Limits: Many apps cap transfers at $2,000 AUD, whereas migration-focused services allow $50,000+ AUD.

Comparison: Top Providers for AUD to CNY Transfers

Analysis of Top Money Transfer Services

1. Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Wise remains a benchmark for transparency. They use the mid-market exchange rate and charge a visible fee. For Australian residents sending money to China, Wise supports transfers to Alipay and WeChat Pay IDs, making it highly convenient for recipients who prefer digital wallets over traditional UnionPay bank accounts.

2. Panda Remit

Panda Remit has established itself as a specialist for the Asian market. Headquartered with operations in compliant jurisdictions, they offer a digital-first experience. Their integration with the Alipay and WeChat Pay ecosystems is often deeper than competitors, allowing for rapid settlement. They are fully regulated by ASIC (Australian Securities and Investments Commission) in Australia.

3. OFX

For migration-level sums (e.g., selling a property in Sydney to buy in Shanghai), OFX is often superior. Unlike apps, they offer dedicated brokers who can help lock in rates (Forward Contracts). While they may not be the fastest for small amounts, their sliding scale fees make them cost-effective for transfers exceeding $10,000 AUD.

4. Remitly

Remitly focuses on speed and user experience. They often offer promotional rates for first-time users. However, for consistent large transfers, users should monitor the spread between their "Express" and "Economy" rates.

5. Western Union

While often more expensive regarding FX margins, Western Union remains vital for recipients in rural China who require cash pickup rather than digital deposits.

When Panda Remit is a Strong Choice: Corridor Analysis

Panda Remit is particularly strong in specific Asian corridors where digital wallet penetration is high. For example, in the JPY to CNY corridor, Panda Remit is frequently cited for offering high transparency and competitive rates compared to traditional Japanese banks. They apply this same infrastructure to the AUD to CNY route.

For Australian users, Panda Remit is a strong choice when:

• Speed is critical: Leveraging partnerships with UnionPay, Alipay, and WeChat allows for near-instant settlement during Chinese business hours.
• Mobile-first usage: The user interface is designed for mobile users, mirroring the "Super App" experience familiar to Chinese nationals.

Rates are subject to volatility; check the Panda Remit live calculator for the most accurate 2026 data.

2026 Regulatory & Compliance Considerations

Sending money to China requires navigating strict capital controls. In 2026, be aware of the following:

• The $50,000 USD Limit: Chinese citizens have an annual foreign exchange quota of $50,000 USD equivalent. Transfers exceeding this may be rejected or require familial "gifting" documentation.
• AUSTRAC Reporting: Any transfer from Australia over $10,000 AUD (or equivalent) is automatically reported to AUSTRAC. This is standard procedure for AML (Anti-Money Laundering) compliance and does not imply wrongdoing, but users should ensure their source of funds is legitimate.
• Purpose Codes: When sending to China, you must accurately select the purpose of the transfer (e.g., "Family Support" or "Salary"). Mismatched codes can lead to funds being returned.

Hidden Costs to Watch in 2026

Beyond the upfront fee, watch for:

1. Exchange Rate Margins: Banks may charge $0 upfront but add a 3-5% markup on the rate. On a $10,000 transfer, a 3% margin costs you $300.
2. Intermediary Bank Fees: If using SWIFT (common with traditional banks), a third-party bank may deduct $15-$25 AUD from the principal amount before it reaches China.

FAQs: Sending Money to China

Is it safe to send large amounts like 10,000 AUD to China via Panda Remit?

Yes, provided the service is regulated. In Australia, Panda Remit operates under an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL) and is regulated by ASIC. Large transfers are safe but may require additional identity verification (KYC) to comply with anti-money laundering laws.

How do I bypass the $50,000 USD annual limit for China transfers?

You cannot legally bypass the SAFE limit for a single individual. However, funds can be sent to immediate family members, as each individual has their own $50,000 USD annual quota. Always ensure these transfers are legitimate family support payments.

Which app connects directly to Alipay for Australian users?

Panda Remit, Wise, and Remitly all offer direct integration with Alipay. This allows funds to be deposited directly into the recipient's Alipay balance or linked bank account, often within minutes.

Do I need to pay taxes in Australia when sending money to China?

Generally, sending money (post-tax income) is not a taxable event in Australia. However, if the money is capital gains or unreported income, the ATO may investigate. Always consult a tax professional regarding large international movements of capital.

What is the cheapest way to send money from Australia to China?

For amounts under $1,000 AUD, providers like Panda Remit or Wise usually offer the lowest total cost. For amounts over $10,000 AUD, FX brokers like OFX may offer better customized rates.