Convert AUD to GBP

What affects the AUD to GBP exchange rate?

The AUD to GBP exchange rate moves as demand shifts between the Australian dollar and British pound sterling. Interest rates, economic results, trade and major global events can all change how much one currency buys in the other.

• The Reserve Bank of Australia and the Bank of England set interest rates for Australia and the United Kingdom. Changes to those rates can make AUD or GBP more attractive to investors.
• Inflation, employment, spending and economic growth can shape expectations for both currencies. Stronger or weaker results may change demand for either.
• Businesses, travellers, investors and central banks buy and sell both currencies every day. British pound sterling is also held as a reserve currency, which can add to global demand.
• Commodity prices can have a strong effect on the Australian dollar. Australia exports goods such as iron ore and natural gas, so price changes can flow through to AUD.
• Elections, conflicts and financial market shocks can cause sudden volatility. In uncertain periods, money can move quickly between currencies.
• Some traders also use technical analysis to track chart patterns and recent price moves. This can add to short-term changes in the rate.

A brief history of the AUD to GBP rate

In 1966, Australia introduced the Australian dollar, replacing the Australian pound. Back then, the value of AUD was managed against other currencies, so the AUD to GBP rate did not move freely with the market.

That changed in December 1983, when Australia floated the dollar. Since then, the rate has responded to trade, commodity prices, market demand and interest rate expectations both in Australia and the United Kingdom.

Historical data shows several sharp swings. The Australian dollar strengthened during the mining boom and reached close to £0.69 in early 2013, while the British pound fell after the 2016 Brexit vote, which also shifted the AUD to GBP rate.

Ways to get British pounds for your trip

With Travelex, you can get British pounds as cash, load GBP onto a Travelex Money Card, or use both. The right option depends on how you plan to spend and manage your money while you’re in the UK.

• Order British pound cash online, then collect it from a Travelex store, participating Australia Post outlet, or an airport location. You can also buy GBP in person at a Travelex store, although in-store rates may differ from online rates.
• Load GBP onto a Travelex Money Card before you leave, then spend from your GBP balance wherever Mastercard Prepaid is accepted. You can also manage your balance and top up through the Travelex Money App.
• Take a mix of British pound cash and a travel money card. Cash can help with smaller purchases or places that do not accept cards, while the Travelex Money Card gives you another way to pay and manage your travel budget.

Sort your GBP cash and travel money card online with Travelex before you leave. That may reduce the need to send money overseas or arrange international money transfers for day-to-day spending after you arrive.

Travel smarter and load GBP on the Travelex Money Card

Load GBP onto your Travelex Money Card before you fly and review the AUD to GBP exchange rate before you confirm. Your pounds sit in a GBP wallet, ready to spend wherever Mastercard Prepaid is accepted.

Loading GBP online or through the Travelex Money App has no Travelex reload fee. We show the exchange rate and any applicable payment surcharge before you confirm, so there are no hidden fees from Travelex¹ at checkout.

In the app, you can check your GBP balance, top up, move money between supported currencies and freeze your travel money card if it goes missing.

^{¹Payment surcharges may apply depending on the payment method. Other card fees and limits may apply. Some ATM operators may charge their own fee or set their own limits.
^^Based on Travelex Online AUD to FX and mid-market exchange rates as of the date of the relevant social media post and/or email communication.
**The information contained in this article has been compiled by Travelex from different external sources. The figures provided are indicative only and are there to provide an idea of the amount of travel money you may need during your trip. Travelex does not ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information shown. Nothing in this article is to be considered financial advice. Travelex Limited does not accept any liability for any loss or damage derived from any reliance on the information in this article. Travelex Limited (ABN 36 004 179 953, AFSL Number 222444) arranges for and sells Online Foreign Currency via its Online Ordering Facility. You should consider the Terms and Conditions before deciding whether to acquire any product.}

^{Mastercard Prepaid Management Services Australia Pty Ltd (ABN 47 145 452 044, AFSL 386 837) arranges for the issue of the Travelex Money Card in conjunction with the issuer, EML Payment Solutions Limited (‘EML’)(ABN 30 131 436 532, AFSL 404131). You should consider the Product Disclosure Statement for the relevant Travelex Money Card and Target Market Determination available at www.travelex.com.au, before deciding to acquire the product. Any advice does not take into account your personal needs, financial circumstances or objectives and you should consider if it is appropriate for you. Mastercard and the circles design are registered trademarks of Mastercard International Incorporated.}