Preparing forAustralia
Flights, accommodation, banking, TFN, mobile, biosecurity, packing. The more prepared you are before takeoff, the easier your first weeks will be.
Our support doesn't end when your visa is granted - it starts there.
- Living / yr$29k AUD
- BanksCBA · Westpac · ANZ · NAB
- Read time7 min
Before you takeoff, do this
Moving to Australia is exciting, but there are a few important things you should organise before and shortly after arrival. The more prepared you are, the easier your first weeks will be.
At Edvise, we support our students not only with their visa and course enrolment, but also with practical advice to help them settle into life in Australia.
Book your flights
Once your student visa has been granted, you can begin arranging your travel.
Try to arrive at least a few days before your course commencement date so you have time to settle in, open a bank account, purchase essentials, and familiarise yourself with your new city.
Organise accommodation
Many students dream of renting their own apartment immediately. However, in Australia this can be difficult when you first arrive. Most landlords and real estate agents will ask for:
- Australian rental history
- Australian employment history
- Australian references
- Proof of income
Because of this, many international students start in a shared house, student accommodation, or short-term rental. This allows you to:
- Establish local references
- Find a job
- Learn the city
- Inspect apartments in person
- Build rental history
Accommodation websites
- Flatmates.com.au
- Flatmate Finders
- UniLodge
- Scape Australia
- Y Suites
- realestate.com.au
- Domain
Prepare your resume
Australian employers often expect a resume that looks different from resumes used in other countries. Generally:
- Keep it concise
- Focus on work experience and skills
- Include contact details
- Use clear formatting
- Avoid unnecessary personal information
If you plan to work while studying, it's worth preparing your resume before arrival.
Finding work in Australia
Australia offers many opportunities for international students. Popular student jobs include:
Useful job websites
Many students also find work through local community groups and referrals from friends.
Set up your bank account
Two-part approach: grab a multi-currency travel card before you fly so you can spend in AUD from day one, then open a full local account once you land.
Revolut
A multi-currency travel card that lets you hold AUD before you even land. Fair exchange rates, minimal fees on foreign transactions, instant top-ups from your home account. Perfect for spending from day one - airport transfer, first groceries, temporary accommodation.
- Hold AUD before you land
- Fair exchange rates, no hidden markups
- Free ATM withdrawals within monthly limit
- Instant transfers between friends
Commonwealth Bank
The most-recommended local bank for international students. Widest branch network, English-speaking student support, easiest account opening with your Student visa. You'll need this for your salary, Medicare rebates, rent transfers and utility bills.
- Free student account, no monthly fees
- Largest ATM and branch network in Australia
- Simple online opening once your visa is granted
- Debit card + NetBank mobile app included
Other options to consider
Most Australian banks let you start the application before arrival - you complete activation in-branch or online once you land, using your passport and visa grant letter.
The essential setup
Three things to organise within your first weeks.
Get your Tax File Number (TFN)
If you intend to work in Australia, you should apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) as soon as possible after arrival. A TFN allows employers to pay you correctly and ensures you are taxed appropriately. Apply directly through the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) - the application is free.
Depending on your circumstances, you may also need an Australian Business Number (ABN) if you work as an independent contractor.
Open an Australian bank account
Having a local bank account makes life much easier. Common banks used by international students include:
Many banks allow you to begin the application before arriving in Australia.
Get an Australian mobile number
Having a local mobile number is essential for:
- Job applications
- Bank accounts
- Accommodation applications
- Government services
Understand Australian biosecurity rules
Australia has some of the strictest border controls in the world. You may have seen the TV show Border Security: Australia's Front Line - it's actually a good example of how seriously Australia treats customs and biosecurity laws.
- Fresh fruit or vegetables
- Meat products
- Dairy products
- Seeds
- Plants
- Soil
- Certain wooden products
- Unauthorised medications
Always declare uncertain items on your Incoming Passenger Card. Declaring an item does NOT automatically mean it will be confiscated. Failing to declare it CAN result in fines.
Pack smart
Students often arrive with too much luggage. Australia has plenty of shopping options, so there's usually no need to bring:
- Large amounts of toiletries
- Excessive kitchen equipment
- Bedding and household items
- Heavy winter clothing (depending on your destination)
- Passport
- Visa grant notification
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
- Health insurance documents
- Educational documents
- Driver licence (if applicable)
- Prescription medications with documentation
- A small amount of Australian currency or a travel card
We can help you settle in
As part of our service, we continue supporting students after visa approval and throughout their stay in Australia. Depending on your needs, we can assist with:
Finding accommodation
Understanding work rights
TFN and ABN guidance
Opening a bank account
Mobile phone setup
Preparing your Australian resume
Understanding public transport
What to pack before departure
General settlement advice
Moving to Australia is a major step, but with the right preparation your arrival can be smooth, organised and stress-free. At Edvise, we're here to support you before departure, after arrival, and throughout your entire study journey in Australia.
We've got you covered
From visa approval to arrival, accommodation to first paycheck - we support our students the whole way. Tell us where you're up to.