In short: To avoid money transfer scams when sending money from Australia to Vietnam, stop before you pay, check who you are really dealing with, and use a provider you can verify on AUSTRAC's Remittance Sector Register. Never send money to someone you have only met online, and never pay a fee to receive a gift or a prize.

Author: Admin EzyRemit · Last updated: 5 October 2026

Money transfer scams sit inside a much larger problem: Australians reported losing $2.18 billion to scams in 2025, up 7.8% on 2024, according to the National Anti-Scam Centre (Targeting Scams report, March 2026). Bank transfer was the payment method scammers asked for most often in reports to Scamwatch, with 8,858 reports. This guide covers the money transfer scams to watch for, the warning signs, how to check a provider, and what to do if you think you have been scammed.

Five checks before you send money overseas: find the provider on the AUSTRAC register, match the legal name and ABN, call the recipient, pause if rushed, never pay a fee to receive a gift

What are the most common money transfer scams?

The most common money transfer scams ask you to send money for a reason that is not real: a romance, an investment, an urgent bill or a "fee" to receive something. Money transfer scams are schemes where a criminal persuades you to send money, by bank transfer or through a transfer service, under false pretences. Once the money has gone, it is very hard to get back, according to Moneysmart.

Scam typeHow it worksSign to watch forWhat to do
Investment scamYou are shown returns that sound certain, often with a crypto or trading platformPressure to deposit more, returns that look too goodStop paying. Check the business on the public register and report it
Romance scamSomeone you met online builds a relationship, then asks for moneyThey never meet in person or on video, and ask you to move to a private chatNever send money to someone you only know online (Scamwatch)
ImpersonationA caller or message claims to be your bank, a government agency or a family memberUrgency, threats, a request to move money to a "safe" accountHang up, then contact the real organisation using a number you already know
Gift or "release fee" scamA friend you met online says they are sending a gift, then someone posing as customs asks for a feeYou must pay before you can receive anythingDo not pay. Vietnamese police have warned about this pattern (ANTV, 26 August 2024)
Unregistered providerA business offers to move money but is not on the AUSTRAC registerYou cannot find its name, ACN or ABN on the registerDo not use it. Pick a provider you can verify

How much are Australians losing to scams?

In 2025, Australians reported $2.18 billion in scam losses across 481,523 reports, according to the National Anti-Scam Centre (Targeting Scams, March 2026). The figures combine reports to Scamwatch, ReportCyber, the Australian Financial Crimes Exchange and IDCARE.

  • Investment scams caused the largest losses, at $837.7 million combined.
  • Among reports to Scamwatch, bank transfer was the payment method scammers asked for most often: 8,858 reports and $118.1 million lost.
  • Cryptocurrency made up 36.2% of losses reported to Scamwatch ($121.3 million).
  • The report notes that culturally and linguistically diverse communities reported a higher median loss.

Scammers target people from every background. These numbers show why a few minutes of checking before you send is worth it.

What warning signs should make you stop?

Stop if anything about the request feels rushed, secret or hard to verify. Scamwatch's "Stop. Check. Protect." advice starts with the same idea: pause before you pay. (Scamwatch).

Warning signWhat to do
You are told to act now or lose the offerPause. A real provider or relative can wait while you check
You are asked to keep the transfer secretTell a trusted person. Secrecy is a common scam tactic
You have only met the person onlineDo not send money. Ask to speak by video and confirm with someone who knows them
You must pay a fee to receive money, a gift or a prizeDo not pay. Real winnings and gifts do not require an upfront fee
You are asked to pay by gift card or cryptocurrencyStop. This is a common scam payment request
The recipient's account details change at the last minuteCall the recipient on a number you already had and confirm the new details
You get an unexpected invoice or payment requestCheck it with the business through its official contact details
The return or the exchange rate looks far too goodCompare with the reference rate and the provider's published terms

How do you check a money transfer provider is real?

Search the AUSTRAC Remittance Sector Register before you send. Moneysmart says money transfer services in Australia must be registered with AUSTRAC, the national anti-money-laundering regulator, and advises you to check first.

  1. Open the AUSTRAC Remittance Sector Register.
  2. Search for the provider's business name, ACN or ABN.
  3. Check that the legal name and ABN match the provider's website and your payment instructions.
  4. Check the Conditions column for any limits on the registration.

Registration means the business is on the register. It is not an endorsement of the service, so also read the provider's terms, fee and rate before you pay. For a closer look at what the register covers, read our guide to how international money transfers are regulated.

How can you check the total cost before you send?

Compare the amount your recipient receives, not only the fee. The total cost of a transfer is the fee plus the gap between the provider's exchange rate and a reference rate. A quote that shows the fee, the rate and the final amount in Vietnamese dong is easier to check than one that shows only a headline fee.

For a seasonal take on hidden costs, read the Easter guide to hidden transfer costs.

EzyRemit's flat fee is AUD 7.99 per transaction for transfers from Australia to Vietnam (AUD 1.00 to 49,999.00), applicable in Q4 2026 (1 October to 31 December 2026). The fee is added on top of the amount you send. The exchange rate changes during the day, so see today's rate on ezyremit.com. For a full comparison method, see our guide to sending money from Australia to Vietnam.

How do you keep your account and phone safe?

Use a unique password, switch on two-step verification, and never share a one-time code with anyone. Scamwatch advises changing your passwords and watching your statements if you shared details (Scamwatch).

  • Use a different password for each money, email and social media account.
  • Turn on two-step verification where it is offered.
  • Keep your phone and apps updated.
  • Avoid public Wi-Fi when you log in to a money app.
  • Do not click links in unexpected texts or emails. Open the app or type the website address yourself.

What scams target people receiving money in Vietnam?

A common one is the "gift from abroad" scam. Police in Vietnam have warned that scammers befriend people on social media, say they are sending a gift, then pose as customs or bank staff and demand fees before the gift can be released (ANTV, 26 August 2024). The report describes two women who nearly lost about 26 million and 25 million dong before bank staff stepped in.

If you have family in Vietnam, tell them three things: nobody needs to pay a fee to receive a gift or transfer, never share one-time codes, and always call you on a known number to confirm. Scamwatch has information in Vietnamese on its Vietnamese language page. Our Vietnamese guide is at EzyRemit lừa đảo?.

What should you do if you think you've been scammed?

Act quickly. Getting money back is not always possible, so report as early as you can. Scamwatch lists these steps (Scamwatch):

  1. Contact your bank and your transfer provider straight away. Give them the date, amount, and transaction reference.
  2. Call IDCARE on 1800 595 160 for help with a recovery plan, especially if you shared personal details.
  3. Report the scam to Scamwatch at scamwatch.gov.au, so others are warned.
  4. Report to police through ReportCyber at cyber.gov.au.
  5. Change your passwords and check your accounts and statements for activity you do not recognise.
  6. Tell the organisation that was impersonated and the platform where it happened.

Keep screenshots, receipts, messages and account details. They help your bank, the provider and the police.

Is it safe to use EzyRemit?

EzyRemit is an Australian international money transfer service that helps people and businesses send money from Australia to Vietnam, the Philippines and other destinations. EzyRemit Worldwide Pty Ltd is registered with AUSTRAC as an independent remittance dealer (IND100838372). You can check this yourself on the AUSTRAC register by searching "EzyRemit". For a step-by-step check, read Is EzyRemit safe? How to check our AUSTRAC registration, or visit ezyremit.com.

Key takeaways

  • Stop, check and protect: pause before you pay, verify who you are dealing with, and report quickly if something goes wrong.
  • Check any provider on the AUSTRAC Remittance Sector Register by name, ACN or ABN.
  • Never pay a fee to receive a gift, prize or transfer, and never send money to someone you only know online.
  • If you think you've been scammed, contact your bank, IDCARE (1800 595 160), Scamwatch and ReportCyber.

FAQ

Can I get my money back if I sent it to a scammer?

Sometimes, but not always. Contact your bank and your transfer provider straight away, then report to Scamwatch and ReportCyber. The faster you act, the better your chances of limiting the damage.

Who do I report a money transfer scam to in Australia?

Report to Scamwatch (National Anti-Scam Centre), and to police through ReportCyber at cyber.gov.au. IDCARE (1800 595 160) supports people who have lost money or personal details. Also tell your bank.

How do I know a remittance provider is registered?

Search the provider's name, ACN or ABN on the AUSTRAC Remittance Sector Register. Registration shows the business is on the register, not that its service is endorsed.

Why would someone ask me to pay a fee to receive a gift?

It is a sign of a scam. Police in Vietnam have warned about gift-from-abroad scams that ask for customs or bank fees before a gift can be released.

Is it safe to send a large amount in one go?

There is no general yes or no. Be sure who the recipient is and why you are sending, check the provider, and confirm the details with the recipient on a number you already know.

This article gives general information only. It is not financial or legal advice. Rules, fees and contact details change, so check the current details with the organisations named. Last updated: 5 October 2026.

If you are looking for a new job or a career change, you might be overwhelmed by the amount of information and options available online. How do you know which job boards to use, which companies to apply to, which skills to highlight, and how to ace the interviews? Luckily, there are some chat AI tools that can help you with your job search and make it easier and more efficient. 

Why Chat AI Tool? 

Chat AI tools are software applications that use natural language processing and machine learning to interact with users through text or voice. They can provide personalized guidance, feedback, and support for various tasks and goals. Some chat AI tools are designed specifically for job seekers, and they can offer the following benefits: 

- They can help you discover your strengths and interests and match you with suitable jobs and careers based on your profile and preferences. 

- They can help you create or improve your resume and cover letter, and tailor them to specific job openings and employers. 

- They can help you prepare for interviews by providing you with common questions, tips, and mock scenarios. They can also give you feedback on your performance and areas of improvement. 

- They can help you negotiate your salary and benefits and provide you with market data and best practices. 

- They can help you stay motivated and organized throughout your job search and remind you of important deadlines and tasks. 

 

Chat AI Tools Recommendations   

Some examples of chat AI tools for job seekers are: 

- JobPal: A chatbot that helps you find and apply for jobs at leading companies like Lufthansa, Airbus, Zalando, and more. You can chat with JobPal on Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp, and it will ask you some questions about your background, skills, and preferences. Then it will show you relevant job openings and help you submit your application in minutes. 

Chat AI JobPal

- Mya: A conversational AI platform that helps you connect with recruiters and hiring managers. You can chat with Mya on SMS, WhatsApp, or web chat, and it will provide you with information about the company and the role, schedule interviews, answer FAQs, and give you feedback. Mya can also help you find new opportunities based on your profile and goals. 

See more: Mya Recruit - YouTube

- Wade & Wendy: A pair of chatbots that act as your personal career advisors. You can chat with Wade on Facebook Messenger or Slack, and he will help you discover your strengths and passions, explore career paths, and find relevant jobs. You can chat with Wendy on SMS or web chat, and she will help you create or improve your resume and cover letter, prepare for interviews, and negotiate your salary. 

chat AI tool

Conclusion 

These are just some of the chat AI tools that can help you with your job search. There are many more out there, and they are constantly evolving and improving. If you want to take advantage of these tools, here are some tips to keep in mind: 

- Be honest and specific when chatting with them. The more information you provide, the better they can assist you. 

- Be open-minded and curious. Try out different tools and see what works best for you. 

- Be respectful and polite. Remember that these tools are not human, but they are trying their best to help you. 

Chat AI tools can be a great resource for job seekers who want to save time, improve their skills, and land their dream job. However, they are not a substitute for human interaction and judgment. You still need to do your own research, network with people, and follow up with employers. Chat AI tools are here to support you, not replace you. 

 

Read more: Take Control Over Artificial Intelligence's Dominance in Job Market (ezyremit.com)

Financial health is a term that is often thrown around in conversations about personal finance. But what exactly does financial health mean?

In this post, we'll provide a deep dive into the definition of financial health as well as how to measure and improve it. 

See more: 9 Simple Tips for Surviving the Cost-of-Living Crisis

What is Financial Health?

Financial health is an individual’s overall financial well-being. It is measured by a combination of factors such as income, savings, debt levels, credit score, and ability to cover expenses. Financial health is important because it affects an individual’s ability to make sound financial decisions and achieve their long-term financial goals.

 what is financial health

Financial health is an essential part of living a secure and comfortable life. Many people struggle with financial issues, but they can take control of their money by establishing smart habits and goals.

Having good financial health requires making smart decisions with money and planning for the future. This includes budgeting, saving, and investing. It also involves reducing debt and using credit responsibly. Ultimately, financial health enables a person to live comfortably and have peace of mind in their financial life.

It is important to strive for financial health in order to have a secure future and prevent financial hardship. This can be done by creating a budget, saving money, reducing debt, and building an emergency fund.

The Importance of Financial Health

There are many reasons why maintaining financial health is so important for individuals and businesses alike. For one, it can help individuals and businesses weather economic downturns. Having a strong financial foundation can help buffer against tough times and make it easier to rebound when the economy improves.

the importance of financial health

Furthermore, financial health can improve quality of life. Those with a healthy financial situation tend to have less stress and more peace of mind. They sleep better at night and feel more confident in their ability to handle life's challenges. 

Finally, good financial health can lead to opportunities for growth and advancement. Individuals and businesses that are financially healthy are in a better position to take advantage of new opportunities as they arise.

In short, there are many good reasons to maintain financial health. Businesses and individuals alike should focus on maintaining a strong financial foundation in order to ensure long-term success.

How to Measure Financial Health

Professional tracking financial milestones to measure financial health

There are a few key indicators that can help you measure your financial status. Here are a few of the most important ones:

  1. Debt-to-Income Ratio: This is a ratio that compares your monthly debt payments to your monthly income. A lower ratio means better financial health, while a higher ratio indicates more financial stress.
  2. Savings Rate: These measures how much of your income you're able to save each month. A higher savings rate is indicative of better financial health.
  3. Credit Score: Your credit score is a number that represents your creditworthiness. A higher credit score means better financial status, while a lower score can make it difficult to get approved for loans and lines of credit.
  4. Emergency Fund: This is money set aside in savings to cover unexpected expenses or an unforeseen loss of income. Having an emergency fund gives you a buffer against financial difficulties and can help improve your overall financial health.
  5. Spending Habits: If you're able to stick to a budget and only spend money on essentials, this is a sign of good financial health. Conversely, if you find yourself frequently overspending or going into debt, this is a sign that you need to improve your financial habits.

However, make note that financial health is not a fixed number. It changes according to an individual's stability, assets, and price of products and services.

How to Improve Financial Health

Financial health is often thought of in terms of net worth or savings, but it encompasses much more. Financial health is a holistic assessment of your overall financial well-being, taking into account factors like income, debts, expenses, and assets.

make budget to improve financial health

There are a few key things you can do to improve your financial health:

A. Have an emergency fund

There are a few different ways you can go about saving for your emergency fund. One option is to set up a separate savings account specifically for this purpose. 

Another option is to create a sinking fund within your overall savings account. This means setting aside specific amounts of money each month until you reach your goal.

Whichever method you choose, make sure you're automatically transferring money into your savings, so you're not tempted to spend it. Review your budget regularly to ensure you're still on track and progressing toward your goal.

B. Invest in yourself

Investing in yourself doesn't have to be expensive, and it can be as simple as taking a class or two to brush up on your money management skills.

financial health efficiency - invest in yourself

You can also invest in yourself by spending time on personal development. Read books, take online courses, and attend seminars to help you reach your goals. All these activities will help you become a financially savvy person who can make smart decisions with your finances.

Or, you could start investing in a retirement account to prepare for the future. Whatever you do, make sure you're taking the time to invest in yourself; it will pay off in the long run!

C. Get rid of debt

Assuming you have debt, the first step is to develop a plan to pay it off. There are a couple of different ways to do this, and the method you choose will depend on your overall financial situation.

If you can swing it, one option is to pay off your debt with cash. This means using money from your savings account, investing sell-offs, or even taking on a side hustle to generate extra income. 

Another option is consolidating your debt onto one low-interest loan or credit card. This can help save you money on interest over time and make your monthly payments more manageable. The downside is that if you’re not careful, you could end up in more debt than you were before.

No matter which strategy you choose, it is important to create a plan and stick to it. Make sure you have a solid understanding of your financial situation before making any decisions and always be mindful of the potential risks involved.

D. Stay disciplined with your spending

If you want to be financially healthy, you need to be disciplined with your spending. That means creating a budget and sticking to it. It also means being mindful of your spending patterns and making changes where necessary.

You should avoid impulse purchases and track your spending to ensure that you are not going over your budget. You should also take into account any additional costs, such as taxes and fees when making a purchase. 

Finally, if you find yourself spending too much on unnecessary items, you should try to cut back and put that money towards more important expenses such as bills or savings. It also means being aware of how much debt you're taking on and making sure you can afford to make the payments.

By following these tips, you can take steps to improve your financial health and security.

Conclusion

Achieving a personal financial goal is always challenging, but it is possible. With a few simple steps, such as creating and sticking to a budget and cultivating good credit habits, you can make progress in improving your overall financial health.

By assessing the four components of financial health: liquidity, debt management, savings rate, and investment portfolio, and you can get a clear picture of your current situation and identify areas for improvement. Working towards optimizing these components will help ensure that you are in control of your finances now and in the future.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been a buzzword in the tech industry for years, and it's now starting to impact the job market. From automated job matching to predictive analytics, AI is changing the way people find jobs. A report conducted by Verified Market Research (2022); the market size value of artificial intelligence is 51.08 billion dollars. In this article, we'll explore how AI is changing the job-finding game and what job seekers can do to stay ahead of the curve. 

What is Artificial Intelligence? 

Artificial intelligence is a branch of computer science that deals with the development of intelligent machines. AI systems can learn, reason, and perceive their environment, much like humans do. These systems can perform tasks that usually require human intelligence, such as speech recognition, decision-making, and language translation. 

According to Investopedia (2022),  

“Artificial intelligence is based on the principle that human intelligence can be defined in a way that a machine can easily mimic it and execute tasks, from the simplest to those that are even more complex. The goals of artificial intelligence include mimicking human cognitive activity.” 

is artificial intelligence replacing human beings employee?

How Artificial Intelligence is Changing the Job Market? 

Artificial intelligence is transforming the job market in several ways. Here are some of the ways AI is changing the job-finding game: 

Automated Job Matching 

AI algorithms can analyze job seekers' resumes and match them to the most relevant job openings. This technology can save recruiters time and increase the chances of finding the right candidate for the job. It can also help job seekers find jobs that match their skills and experience more easily. 

Artificial Intelligence - Ideal Predictive Analytics 

AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data to predict which jobs will be in demand in the future. This technology can help job seekers choose careers that have the most growth potential and are more likely to provide job security. 

artificial intelligence is an ideal data analysis

Chatbots and Virtual Assistants 

The latest statistics show that by 2021, as many as 15 percent of customer service interactions worldwide will be fully powered by AI (Gartner, 2019).  AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants can help job seekers with their job search by answering questions, providing feedback, and scheduling interviews. These tools can save job seekers time and make the job search process more efficient. 

Resume Optimization 

AI algorithms can analyze job seekers' resumes and provide feedback on how to optimize them for specific job openings. This technology can help job seekers tailor their resumes to match the requirements of the job, increasing their chances of getting hired. 

How Job Seekers Can Stay Ahead of the Curve? 

According to the most recent artificial intelligence facts and data, 44 percent of companies that use AI indicate a decrease in business costs in areas where AI is used (McKinsey, 2019). When combined with revenue growth by many of these firms, the cost benefits of AI are obvious. 

The aforementioned artificial intelligence statistics demonstrate that the importance of AI in business cannot be overstated. Here are some tips that job seekers should keep in mind to stay ahead of the curve: 

Use Keywords in Your Resume 

Since artificial intelligence algorithms analyze resumes for job matching, it's essential to use relevant keywords in your resume. Use keywords that match the job description and the skills required for the job. 

Develop In-Demand Skills 

AI is changing the job market, and certain skills are becoming more in demand. Job seekers should focus on developing skills that are in high demand, such as data analysis, machine learning, and cybersecurity. 

Network with Industry Professionals 

Networking with industry professionals can help job seekers stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in their field. Attend conferences, join professional organizations, and connect with industry leaders on LinkedIn.

 

Stay Flexible in Comparing with Artificial Intelligence

The job market is constantly changing, and job seekers need to be flexible and adaptable. Be willing to learn new skills, take on new challenges, and embrace new technologies. 

Read more: 6 Soft Skills to Learn that Will Help Land Your Dream Career | EzyRemit

Conclusion 

Artificial intelligence is changing the job-finding game, and job seekers need to adapt to stay ahead of the curve. By using relevant keywords in their resumes, developing in-demand skills, networking with industry professionals, and staying flexible, job seekers can increase their chances of finding the right job. As AI continues to transform the job market, it's essential to keep up with the latest trends and developments to stay competitive in the job market. 

Cost of Living Australia 2026: What Has Changed

The cost of living Australia faces in 2026 continues to challenge households across the country. Consequently, families are projected to pay an additional $2,000 on groceries, insurance, and food this year. Furthermore, electricity costs surged by 32.2% in the 12 months to January 2026 as government rebates wound back. Moreover, annual inflation remains at 3.8%, exceeding the Reserve Bank of Australia's target band of 2-3%.

For diaspora communities sending money overseas, these financial pressures make every dollar count. Therefore, choosing the right money transfer service becomes even more critical during this challenging period.

9 Tips for Surviving the Cost of Living Australia Crisis

Here are practical strategies to manage your finances during these challenging times:

1. Review Your Grocery Spending

Plan meals weekly and buy only what you need. Consequently, comparing prices across different stores and using rewards programs can lead to significant savings. Furthermore, buying in bulk saves money only when items will be consumed before expiry.

2. Switch Energy Providers

Regularly compare electricity and gas providers to find better deals. Additionally, turning off appliances at the power point can save up to $240 annually. As a result, smart meter monitoring helps you understand peak consumption patterns.

3. Review Insurance Policies Annually

Compare home, car, and health insurance policies each year. Consequently, switching providers or negotiating with your current insurer often yields better rates. Furthermore, bundling policies unlocks additional discounts.

4. Consolidate High-Interest Debt

Review your mortgage, especially if a fixed term is ending. Moreover, consolidating credit card and personal loan debt into lower-interest options reduces monthly repayments. As a result, you release cash for essential expenses.

5. Build an Emergency Fund

Implement automated savings to build a financial buffer. Specifically, even small regular contributions add up over time. Therefore, having three months of expenses saved provides peace of mind.

6. Cut Discretionary Spending

Many households navigating the cost of living Australia challenge have adopted a more intentional approach to spending. Consequently, reviewing subscriptions, daily coffee purchases, and dining out habits reveals hidden expenses. Furthermore, small daily savings compound into significant annual amounts.

7. Access Government Support Programs

The 2025-26 Federal Budget includes tax rate reductions and extended energy bill relief. Additionally, student debt waivers and reduced PBS medication costs help eligible Australians. As a result, checking your entitlements could unlock hundreds of dollars in support.

8. Increase Your Income Sources

Seeking a pay raise or finding additional work helps offset the rising cost of living Australia experiences. Moreover, the gig economy offers flexible earning opportunities that fit around existing commitments. Furthermore, upskilling through no-cost government training programs leads to higher-paying roles.

9. Save on International Money Transfers

Traditional banks charge 10-15% in cross-border transfer fees. However, digital platforms like EzyRemit charge as little as $5 AUD flat. Consequently, switching from a bank to a fintech provider saves hundreds annually.

How Cost of Living Australia Pressures Affect Remittances

The financial squeeze directly impacts how much diaspora families can send overseas. Specifically, interest rate increases squeeze disposable income for households across the country. Therefore, maximising the value of each international transfer becomes essential.

Furthermore, the global average remittance cost stands at 6.4% in 2025, more than double the UN target of 3%. As a result, innovations like ISO 20022 and Project Nexus aim to slash cross-border settlement expenses by 40-80% by 2027. Learn about how fintech reduces transfer costs and explore zero fee transfers to Vietnam.

Smart Money Transfers During the Cost of Living Australia Challenge

Beyond household budgeting, choosing the right remittance provider makes a real difference:

  • Banks: Average fees of 14.55% plus poor exchange rates. Consequently, a $1,000 transfer can cost over $145 in fees alone.
  • Money Transfer Operators: Fees of 5-8% with better rates. Furthermore, transfers typically take 1-3 business days to arrive.
  • Digital Platforms (EzyRemit): Flat $5 fee and competitive rates. As a result, you save up to $140 per transfer compared to banks.

Start saving on international transfers during the cost of living period. Visit EzyRemit for competitive exchange rates and low fees.

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