you've been given the correct advice ( by Brandon who's pretty much an expert ) on how your friend in Aus can get the visa in Australia, which is accepted by banks, so they can open an account when they arrive. They can then apply for the one year extension. If you prefer to ignore it that's up to you.
nothing to do with the news. Banks don't want to open bank accounts for short term tourists. SO apply for a visa (online) from embassy before arriving. Open account. Then get 12 month extension of stay.
read what Brandon posted. . Apply for Non O visa in AUS. Fly to Thailand. Open bank account. Deposit the money. Apply for extension of stay based on retirement.
so if they obtain their visa from embassy in Aus they can't arrive and open a bank account? Yet that's what people are being advised. . Get proper visa, and go to bank ( several banks) then put money in bank.