Life in Australia: A Guide for International Students

Moving to a new country is a journey filled with excitement and offers endless opportunities. For many international students, Australia becomes more than a study destination, — it becomes a second home.

Culture & Everyday Norms
- Australia is a multicultural society built on respect, fairness, and inclusiveness.
- Etiquette matters: say thank you, respect queues, let passengers exit before boarding, and keep noise low on public transport.
- Diversity in race, gender, and orientation is widely accepted, easing culture shock.

Academic Life
- Universities encourage active participation, critical thinking, and collaboration.
- Support includes English language help, writing workshops, and peer mentoring.
- Campus life is vibrant with clubs, societies, and cultural festivals.

Working While Studying
- Student visas often allow part-time work under certain conditions.
- Essentials before working:
- Register for a Tax File Number (TFN)
- Open an Australian bank account (CommBank, NAB, Westpac, ANZ)
- Link accounts properly to avoid tax issues
- Jobs can be found via SEEK, Indeed, Workforce Australia, or campus services.

Safety & Wellbeing
- Emergency number: 000
- Universities provide counselling, health programs, and advocacy.
- Safety tips: avoid walking alone late at night, lock doors, safeguard belongings.

Managing Finances
- Students must show proof of funds for visa approval.
- Living costs include accommodation, transport, food, and course expenses.
- Part-time work helps but shouldn’t be the sole source of income.

Visa & Health Coverage
- Key requirements:
- Valid passport
- Certificate of Enrolment (CoE)
- English test results (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, CAE, OET)
- Proof of funds
- Overseas Student Health Coverage (OSHC) – mandatory
- Medical exams may be required depending on country of origin.

Travel & Arrival
- Transport options: taxis, shuttle buses, Skybus, trams, trains.
- Sydney offers direct airport-to-city train service.
- Packing essentials: seasonal clothing, adaptors, funds, paperwork.
- Customs: declare food, plants, animal materials, or cash over AUD 10,000.

Accommodation Options
- Homestays – cultural immersion, meals included.
- Student housing/dorms – close to campus, communal amenities.
- Shared accommodation – cost-effective, social but less privacy.
- Private rentals – independence but higher costs and responsibility.

Transport & Mobility
- Melbourne – Myki card, free tram zone in CBD.
- Sydney – Opal card for buses, trains, ferries.
- Adelaide – MetroCard system.
- Cycling is popular but requires helmets.
- Driving requires checking licence validity and insurance.

Communication & Internet
- SIM cards require ID (passport, visa).
- Prepaid plans are flexible; contracts better for long stays.
- Internet via NBN or wireless broadband (4G/5G).

Exploring Australia
- Melbourne – arts, street culture, Queen Victoria Market.
- Sydney – Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Bondi Beach.
- Adelaide – relaxed lifestyle, Central Market, Zoo.
- Other regions: tropical beaches, mountains, wine regions, deserts.

Final Thoughts
Australia offers a secure, inclusive, and enriching environment for international students. With preparation—visa compliance, budgeting, accommodation planning, and cultural awareness—students can thrive academically and personally.