I enquired about an extension of one month on my L visa that expires in Jan 2013

I enquired at the PBS about an extension to my L for an additional month. We were told to get our Australian marriage certificate authenticated by Chinese consulate in Australia. Given that this may take more than the one left on my visa we were told they would grant me a one month extension. Until the document returned.
We enquired today when I must come in to apply for the extension. We were told one week before it expires. However we were also told that I must have a chinese bank account in my name with 20,000 RMB before this would be granted. Why didn't the PBS tell me this last week and why didn't this web site inform me also of this fact. Having bank statements and debit cards apparently are not acceptable.