Before you arrive in Australia
To assist you in moving to Australia, the Commonwealth Bank offers a unique International Customer Service Centre. Our team of professional, multilingual service officers can help you set up your new banking relationship with the Commonwealth Bank in Australia while you're studying.
Best of all, you can now apply for a bank account with the Commonwealth Bank prior to your arrival in Australia. To apply, simply complete the online application form. Once submitted, your application will be processed and you will be contacted by the Commonwealth Bank International Customer Services team who will provide you with your account details and advise you which branch you will need to attend on arrival in Australia to provide your identification to access your account.
If you would like to deposit funds into your account prior to leaving your home country, we can also provide you with the Commonwealth Bank's SWIFT code for International Money Transfers.

is up to u..not much different for me if u apply before ur arrival or after..
for me,i will bring a bit cash and bank draft then apply for bank account after arrival..not like it will take few days to get your bank acount