Reserve Bank of Australia

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The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA), the nation’s central bank, began operations on 14 January 1960 following its establishment under the Reserve Bank Act 1959. As Australia’s central bank, the RBA is responsible for conducting monetary policy, maintaining financial system stability, and issuing the nation’s currency.

Beyond its policy role, the Bank provides banking and registry services to the Australian Government and certain overseas central banks and official institutions. It also manages Australia’s gold and foreign exchange reserves. The Bank operates as a statutory authority with powers and responsibilities defined by legislation.

The Reserve Bank Act 1959 establishes two boards: the Reserve Bank Board and the Payments System Board. The Reserve Bank Board is tasked with ensuring that monetary and banking policy contribute to the welfare of the Australian people, in consultation with the Government. According to the Act, the Bank’s objectives are to promote:

(a) the stability of the currency of Australia;
(b) the maintenance of full employment; and
(c) the economic prosperity and welfare of the Australian people.

The RBA also places strong emphasis on transparency, enhancing public understanding of its role and policies through wide-ranging communications. To support its international operations, the Bank maintains representative offices in New York and London.

Common Services Offered by Reserve Bank of Australia

List of the common services offered by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA):

• Conducts monetary policy to manage inflation, employment, and economic stability.
• Issues and distributes Australia’s banknotes.
• Works to maintain financial system stability.
• Oversees and regulates the payments system.
• Provides banking services to the Australian Government.
• Offers registry services for government securities (e.g., bonds).
• Manages Australia’s gold and foreign exchange reserves.
• Publishes economic research, reports, and forecasts.
• Operates international representative offices in New York and London.

Reserve Bank of Australia HQ Contact Information
8 Chifley Square Sydney NSW 2000 Australia Phone: +61 2 9551 8111 SWIFT / BIC Code: RSBKAU2S Operating Hours (Banking Hours) Monday - Thursday : 9:30 am - 4:00 pm Friday : 9:30 am - 5:00 pm Reserve Bank of Australia Head Office Location Map

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