Your First 30 Days in Australia: A Student Checklist

The first month in a new country can feel overwhelming. Between settling into your accommodation, sorting out your finances, and navigating a new campus, it is easy to lose track of what matters most. This checklist breaks down the essential tasks for your first 30 days in Australia into manageable steps. It covers everything from arrival logistics to long-term planning, using official guidance from Australian government sources. Whether you are arriving for the first time or returning after a break, having a clear plan will help you start your studies with confidence.

This guide is a general overview. Your education provider will also give you specific information during orientation, and you should always refer to their international student support team for advice tailored to your situation.

Before You Land: Pre-Arrival Essentials

Some tasks are much easier to handle before you board the plane. Completing these steps early saves time and reduces stress upon arrival.

1. Confirm your accommodation booking. Whether you have chosen managed student accommodation, a homestay, or short-term housing, have the address and check-in instructions printed or saved offline on your phone. Review the rental payment safety guide before paying a private landlord.
2. Check your visa conditions. Log into your ImmiAccount to confirm your visa grant details, work rights, and expiry date. Keep a digital copy of your visa grant notice.
3. Arrange airport transfer if your education provider offers it. Many institutions provide free or low-cost pickup services for new international students.
4. Pack essential documents in your carry-on luggage: passport, visa grant notice, Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), accommodation details, and your OSHC membership card or policy details.
5. Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid your cards being blocked when you try to use them in Australia.

Arriving with these basics sorted means you can focus on settling in rather than scrambling for paperwork.

Week 1: Arrival and Immediate Setup

Your first week is about establishing a stable base. Prioritise tasks that unlock other parts of daily life, such as banking and connectivity.

Check into Your Accommodation

When you arrive at your accommodation, inspect the property carefully if you are renting privately. Take date-stamped photos of any existing damage and report it to the landlord or agent immediately. For students in university-managed accommodation or purpose-built student housing, attend any welcome sessions and familiarise yourself with the facilities and rules. If you are in a homestay, take time to discuss house routines and expectations with your host.

Activate Your Australian Phone Plan

A local mobile number is essential for setting up bank accounts, applying for jobs, and staying in touch with your institution. You can usually get a prepaid SIM card at the airport or any shopping centre. Compare plans from major providers and choose one that suits your data needs. You will need identification, such as your passport, to activate the SIM.

Open an Australian Bank Account

You can often open an account online before you arrive and then visit a branch to verify your identity and collect your debit card. If you have not done this, visit a branch in your first few days. Bring your passport, visa grant notice, and CoE. Once your account is active, you can transfer funds and start using Australian dollars without international transaction fees.

Register with Your Education Provider

Attend your institution’s international student orientation. This is where you will learn about campus facilities, academic expectations, support services, and your obligations under Australian student visa rules. You will also complete your enrolment and receive your student ID card. Orientation is not optional for most institutions; missing it can cause delays in your enrolment.

Week 2: Health, Finances, and Essentials

Once you have a roof over your head and a working phone, turn your attention to longer-term stability.

Confirm Your OSHC Coverage

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is a visa requirement for most international students. Your education provider may have arranged a policy for you, or you may have purchased one independently. Locate your membership card or digital card in the insurer’s app. If you cannot find it, contact your insurer immediately. Understand what your policy covers, how to find a doctor, and the process for making a claim.

Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN)

If you plan to work while studying, you need a Tax File Number from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Applications are free and can be completed online. You will need your passport and visa details. Apply as soon as you arrive, as processing can take several weeks. You can start working before your TFN arrives, but your employer will withhold tax at the highest rate until you provide it.

Set Up Your MyGov Account

MyGov is a central online portal for accessing Australian government services, including the ATO, Medicare (if eligible), and Centrelink. While most international students are not eligible for Centrelink payments, having a MyGov account linked to your TFN is useful for managing tax returns and other administrative tasks.

Explore Your Local Area

Spend a few hours walking around your neighbourhood. Locate the nearest supermarket, pharmacy, public transport stop, and medical centre. Knowing where to go for everyday needs makes the first few weeks feel less disorienting. If you are in a city with a free tram or bus zone, learn the boundaries.

Week 3: Study Preparation and Community

With the essentials in place, you can now focus on your academic and social transition.

Attend Faculty or Course-Specific Orientation

Beyond the general international student orientation, your faculty or department may run sessions on course structure, timetables, and academic expectations. This is also a good time to meet your lecturers and classmates. Ask about learning management systems, library access, and any required textbooks or equipment.

Join Student Clubs and Societies

Most campuses have dozens of clubs, from sports and cultural groups to academic societies and hobby clubs. Joining a club is one of the fastest ways to meet people and build a support network. Many institutions hold a club sign-up day during orientation weeks.

Understand Your Work Rights

International students on a subclass 500 visa can usually work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Check your visa conditions for your specific work rights. Do not rely on income from part-time work to cover your tuition fees or living costs; the Department of Home Affairs requires you to have sufficient funds before you arrive.

Week 4: Long-Term Planning and Wellbeing

As your first month draws to a close, shift your focus to habits that will sustain you throughout your studies.

Create a Realistic Budget

Living costs vary significantly between cities and lifestyles. The Department of Home Affairs sets a minimum financial requirement for visa applicants, but your actual costs may be higher. Use the Study Australia Cost of Living Calculator to estimate your weekly and monthly expenses. Account for rent, groceries, transport, utilities, phone plan, OSHC, and entertainment. If you are in a smaller city or regional area, your accommodation costs may be lower, which can ease financial pressure.

Know Where to Get Help

Every education provider has international student support services. These teams can assist with academic issues, personal counselling, accommodation advice, and visa compliance questions. If you experience financial trouble, housing problems, or mental health challenges, contact them early. There are also external resources, such as the Overseas Students Ombudsman, which handles complaints about private education providers.

Build a Study Routine

University and college study patterns can differ significantly from your home country. Attend all classes, engage with online learning materials, and use the library and academic skills workshops. If you are struggling with a subject, seek help from your lecturer or tutor during their consultation hours rather than waiting until exams approach.

Review Your Accommodation Situation

If you are in short-term or temporary housing, start planning your next move. Research private rental options and understand your rights as a tenant. Bond and advance-rent rules vary by state or territory, so check the relevant tenancy authority before paying. Always inspect a property in person before signing a lease or transferring money. Your education provider’s housing service can offer guidance.

Staying Safe and Well

Australia is generally a safe country, but it is still wise to take precautions.

• Save emergency numbers: 000 for police, fire, and ambulance.
• Know your campus security number and the location of emergency phones.
• Download the Emergency+ app, which uses GPS to help emergency services locate you.
• Be aware of sun safety. Australia has high UV levels, so wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, even on cloudy days.
• Stay connected with family and friends back home, but also build local connections. Isolation can affect your mental health.

FAQ

Q1: Do I need to arrive before my course start date?

Yes. You should plan to arrive at least one to two weeks before your course begins. This gives you time to attend orientation, settle into your accommodation, and complete the administrative tasks in this checklist. Arriving late can affect your enrolment and visa compliance.

Q2: Can I work immediately after arriving in Australia?

You can start looking for work as soon as you arrive, but you must have your visa granted with work rights and you should apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) immediately. Your employer will need your TFN to pay you correctly. Remember that work hours are limited while your course is in session.

Q3: What should I do if I cannot find somewhere to live?

Contact your education provider’s accommodation or international student support service immediately. They can advise on available options, including managed student accommodation, homestay networks, and short-term solutions. Do not sign a private lease under pressure without understanding your rights and obligations.

Q4: How do I access medical care with OSHC?

Find a general practitioner (GP) that direct-bills your OSHC insurer to avoid paying upfront. Your insurer’s website or app will have a search tool for direct-bill providers. For emergencies, go to a hospital emergency department or call 000. Keep your OSHC membership card with you at all times.

Q5: What if I feel overwhelmed or homesick?

It is normal to feel homesick or overwhelmed in your first month. Speak to your institution’s counselling service, which is free and confidential for students. You can also talk to a trusted friend, family member, or your student support team. Seeking help early is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Sources

• Study Australia, Accommodation
• Study Australia, Living and Education Costs
• Study Australia, International Student Support Services

Ready to plan your next step? Whether you need help choosing accommodation, understanding your OSHC, or preparing for your visa application, an experienced education counsellor can guide you. Speak with an Australian education counsellor → /contact/