Unsuspecting Aussies hit at ATMs

CUSTOMERS are being charged exorbitant fees of up to $21 to access their own money from Australian ATM machines, new figures show.

But it is even worse for customers using overseas machines — some are being hit with charges of more than $250 just to get cash out.

Banking sources have revealed customer data showing some of the heftiest charges in the past 12 months. It showed customers being charged up to $21 to access their cash from ATMs at adult entertainment venues in Melbourne’s CBD.

Customers withdrawing cash while overseas were also heavily pinged, with popular US destinations including Las Vegas the biggest cash traps.

One customer withdrew $US1000, at the time the equivalent to $A1414, and paid fees totalling $A283.

Another withdrew $US800, the equivalent of $A1183, and paid fees totalling $A236.

These fees could include an ATM charge and a percentage fee on the withdrawal amount.

In 2017, the big four banks dumped ATM charges for customers using machines in Australia. Despite this, some independent ATM operators and some banks still charge customers.

Financial comparison website Mozo’s spokeswoman Kirsty Lamont said Australians were getting stung too easily by excessive rates, particularly when overseas.

“Just taking your everyday bank debit card overseas could see you slugged up to $5.50 each time you make an overseas ATM withdrawal,” she said.

Ms Lamont said on Mozo’s database there were 24 financial institutions that did not charge ATM fees.