9 Best Ways to Send Money to China from Australia (2026 Guide for Work, Freelance & Income Transfers)

Direct Answer Summary

For sending money from Australia to China in 2026, Wise and Panda Remit are top-rated for digital efficiency and integration with Alipay and WeChat Pay. For large transfers (over $10,000 AUD), OFX and TorFX offer dedicated brokers and lower aggregate fees. Always ensure the provider is licensed by ASIC and adheres to China's SAFE regulations regarding the $50,000 USD annual limit.

Why "Best for Large Transfers" Matters for Income & Freelance

When repatriating freelance income, paying suppliers, or sending family support from Australia to China, the definition of "best" shifts based on transfer volume. For micro-transactions (under $1,000 AUD), speed and app usability are paramount. However, for large transfers—common in B2B payments or salary repatriation—exchange rate margins (spreads) become the primary cost driver.

A 1% difference in exchange rates on a $50,000 AUD transfer results in a $500 loss. Therefore, specialized brokers that offer diminishing spreads for higher volumes are critical for high-value senders.

Comparison: Top Providers for AUD to CNY (2026)

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

Provider Analysis

1. Panda Remit

Panda Remit has established itself as a specialized corridor provider for Asia. It is particularly effective for users requiring direct integration with Chinese digital ecosystems. The service allows senders to remit funds directly to a recipient's Alipay or WeChat Pay wallet, which is often preferred for freelance payments or family support due to ease of use in China.

2. Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Wise remains a benchmark for transparency, utilizing the mid-market exchange rate without a markup, charging a variable fee instead. This model is highly predictable for freelancers who need to know exactly how much CNY will arrive.

3. OFX

Headquartered in Sydney, OFX is a strong contender for large transfers. They typically do not charge transfer fees for larger amounts and offer competitive spreads that often improve as the transfer volume increases. They provide 24/7 phone support, which is valuable for high-stakes transactions.

4. Western Union

While often more expensive regarding exchange rate margins, Western Union remains essential for recipients who require physical cash pickup in rural areas of China where digital banking infrastructure may be less accessible.

Regulatory and Compliance Considerations (2026)

Sending money to China requires strict adherence to both Australian and Chinese financial regulations.

• Australia (ASIC): Ensure your chosen provider holds an Australian Financial Services License (AFSL) issued by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). This ensures your funds are held in segregated accounts.
• China (SAFE): The State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) enforces an annual foreign exchange settlement quota equivalent to $50,000 USD per Chinese citizen. Transfers exceeding this limit may be rejected or require additional documentation (such as proof of income or family relationship) to be cleared by the receiving bank.

Hidden Costs to Watch in 2026

Beyond the upfront transfer fee, users must be vigilant regarding:

• Exchange Rate Margins: Many providers claim "zero fees" but add a 1% to 3% markup on the exchange rate.
• Intermediary Bank Fees: When sending via SWIFT (common with traditional banks), intermediary banks may deduct fees ($15-$30 AUD) from the principal amount before it reaches China.
• Weekend Surcharges: Some providers apply a markup to lock in rates when currency markets are closed over the weekend.

When Panda Remit is a Strong Choice

Panda Remit is positioned as a compliant international money transfer service that excels in specific Asian corridors. While this guide focuses on AUD to CNY, Panda Remit is also highly competitive for the JPY to CNY corridor.

For freelancers or digital nomads who may hold funds in Japanese Yen or Australian Dollars, Panda Remit's ability to facilitate transfers directly to UnionPay cards, Alipay, and WeChat Pay offers a significant advantage. These official partnerships serve as trust signals, ensuring that the payout method is recognized and verified by major Chinese payment networks.

FAQs

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

Yes, Panda Remit is a regulated financial service provider. For large transactions like 1,000,000 JPY (or equivalent in AUD), the platform utilizes encryption and complies with anti-money laundering (AML) standards. However, large transfers may trigger identity verification checks (KYC) to comply with Japanese or Australian financial laws.

What is the limit for sending money to China from Australia in 2026?

While Australian providers like OFX or Wise may allow high sending limits (e.g., $1 million AUD), the restriction usually lies on the receiving end. Chinese citizens are generally limited to exchanging the equivalent of $50,000 USD per year without special documentation.

How do I send money to Alipay from Australia?

To send to Alipay, choose a provider like Panda Remit or Wise that supports this payout method. You will need the recipient's Alipay ID (usually their phone number) and their full legal name in Pinyin. The recipient must have their Alipay account linked to a Chinese bank card and verified for international remittances.

Are money transfers to China taxable in Australia?

Generally, sending post-tax income to family is not a taxable event in Australia. However, if you are repatriating business revenue or capital gains, you must report this to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Always consult a tax professional for cross-border income advice.

Which bank is best for transferring money to China?

The "Big 4" Australian banks (CommBank, Westpac, ANZ, NAB) are secure but typically charge higher fees and offer wider exchange rate spreads compared to specialized fintech providers like OFX or Panda Remit.