What is a bank cheque?

A 'bank cheque' is a cheque issued by a bank. The law generally treats bank cheques in the same manner as ordinary cheques. Bank cheques are usually requested because of the higher likelihood that they will be paid. However, bank cheques should not be regarded as equivalent to cash, and you may be unable to withdraw the value of a bank cheque until it has cleared. Generally, it takes three working days from the time you deposit the bank cheque, until the proceeds are available as cleared funds in your account.

Please note, the special clearance is no longer available.

NAB bank cheque policy

Forged or unauthorised

If the signature of an officer of NAB is forged or placed on a bank cheque without NAB's authority, NAB is not legally liable for the cheque concerned.

Materially altered

NAB will dishonour a fraudulently or materially altered bank cheque. NAB will co-operate with:

  • any holder of a cheque.
  • a receiver of a cheque.
  • someone who may want to verify that the cheque is valid.

Reported stolen or lost

If NAB is told that a bank cheque is stolen or lost and is satisfied that this is the case, NAB will not pay the cheque if it is presented for payment by a person who has no right to it. NAB may provide a replacement cheque for a fee.

Court order restraining payment

NAB must observe an order of a court restraining NAB from paying a bank cheque which is presented for payment while the order is in force.

Failure of consideration for the issue of a bank cheque

Where NAB has not received payment for issuing a bank cheque to a customer (e.g. your cheque to NAB in payment for the bank cheque is dishonoured), NAB may refuse to pay the bank cheque only if the person presenting the bank cheque for payment has:

  • not given value for it (e.g. the bank cheque is stolen)
  • given value for it but at the time of doing so, he or she knew NAB had not been paid for the cheque (e.g. that the cheque in favour of NAB had been dishonoured).

How to purchase a bank cheque?

Bank cheques can be purchased by NAB customers or customers of a NAB agent bank from a NAB branch. NAB no longer issues bank cheques to non-NAB customers.

The fees involved with the issue and replacement of a bank cheque are outlined in Personal banking fees and charges.

Australia Post Money Orders and Vouchers

Are a fast, safe and affordable alternative for paying:

  • bills
  • sending money to family or friends
  • paying for items purchased online
  • private sale for values up to $10,000.

Learn about the benefits, limits, delivery options and fees of Australia Post Money Orders and Vouchers, opens in new window.

Terms and Conditions

Money Orders are issued by Australia Post and are not a service of NAB. NAB accepts no responsibility for the issuing of Money Orders or the facilitation of such transactions.