Using your PIN

The PINwise Industry Security Initiative has announced that PIN will become the main form of card payment authorisation in Australia.

The industry-wide move to expand PIN at the point of sale (POS) and phase-out the signature as a form of verification on Australian chip credit and debit cards will take place from 1 August.

There will be no change to contactless or online transactions.

Why use a PIN?

It’s more secure than signing – It’s easy for someone to see your signature, but only you know your PIN. Using your PIN for purchases on your credit and debit cards is safer than signing and makes it harder for card fraudsters. There’s only a one in 10,000 chance of somebody guessing your PIN.

Faster and more convenient – using your PIN is quicker than signing. Just enter your PIN and you’re done.

Some overseas retailers only accept PIN authorisation – some overseas retailers only accept PIN to authorise credit and debit card transactions. So ensure you know your PIN if you are travelling overseas. Australia is also moving towards replacing signature with PIN for all purchases.

How do I get or change a PIN for my card?

If you currently haven’t got a PIN, or you can’t remember one that was issued to you, or want to change your current PIN, you can request a PIN for your credit or debit card:

• Online any time, if you haven’t already done so, simply register for Internet, Mobile and Tablet Banking. You will need to provide a valid phone number for St.George Secure Code service. Once you’re logged in, click on the Change card PIN link in the Manage my accounts menu of internet banking or the Services menu of mobile banking to reset your PIN at any time. You don’t need to know your existing PIN, however, authorisation will be required via the Secure Code service. Or;
• Via a St.George ATM^ or by visiting your local St.George branch with your card and identification. Please note to change your PIN at a St.George ATM you will be required to know your current PIN. Or;
• To be mailed to you by calling us on the numbers below or visiting your local branch. If you choose to have your PIN mailed out to you, this will take 5-7 business day.

Personal credit or debit card customers

• Call us on 13 33 30 (Mon to Sat 8am-8pm)
• Call us on +61 2 9155 7800 (from outside Australia, 24 hours, 7 days/week)
• Visit your local St.George branch with photo identification.

Business credit or debit card customers

• Call us on 133 800 (Mon to Sat 8am-8pm)
• Call us on +61 9845 4900 (from outside Australia, 24 hours, 7 days/week)
• Visit your local St.George branch with photo identification.

How can I change my PIN online?

To change your PIN online at any time, simply register for Internet, Mobile and Tablet Banking. You will need to provide a valid phone number for St.George Secure Code service. Once you’re logged in, click on the Change card PIN link in the Manage my accounts menu of Internet Banking or the Services menu of Mobile Banking to reset your PIN at any time. You don’t need to know your existing PIN, however, authorisation will be required via the Secure Code service.

How do I choose a secure PIN?

Much like choosing a computer password, you should keep your PIN a secret. You should avoid using a PIN that contains repeating characters (like 9999) or digits in sequence (like 1234), or numbers that represent publically researchable information, such as your birthday; year of birth; your name or family names; or address.

Need help or want to find out more?

Take a look at our PIN FAQs

For further assistance, visit your local branch or call us on one of the numbers below;

• Personal credit or debit card customers: 13 33 30 (Mon to Sat 8am-8pm)
• Business or commercial card customers: 133 800 (Mon to Fri 8am-6pm)