- Published on February 20, 2026
- Bishnu K.
Moving to a new country is an exciting adventure, and Australia is an incredible place to live. To help you feel comfortable as quickly as possible, we’ve put together this guide to settling in. It covers the practical essentials of daily life so you can hit the ground running and start enjoying your experience.
Accommodations
Students are strongly encouraged to arrange their accommodations prior to their arrival. There are generally three options for accommodations: on-campus residence, homestay, and off-campus housing (private rentals).
On-Campus Residence
Students can find residence options and deadlines directly on the institution’s website. Many choose to live on campus for their first year because it makes the transition to Australia much easier. Residences come furnished and often include meals and cleaning, offering a supportive environment where it is easy to make friends and fully enjoy student life.
Homestay
Living with a local host family is a fantastic way to experience Australian culture firsthand. These families are carefully screened by professional agencies, such as the Australian Homestay Network, to ensure a safe and welcoming home. Since many schools work with specific agencies, check your school’s website to find their recommended homestay partners.
Off-Campus Housing
Students can also choose to rent an apartment off-campus, often with help from their school’s housing services. Websites like Student Housing Australia, Flatmates, and Facebook are great places to find listings by searching for your school’s name. For short-term needs, hotels or Airbnbs are available options, though they are expensive and best used only as a temporary solution.
Transportation
Transportation is a key factor when deciding where to live. If you plan to stay off-campus, always check your commute ahead of time to ensure getting to class is easy and convenient.
Public Transit
Australia’s excellent public transit makes getting around easy and affordable. Most towns feature reliable bus networks, while larger cities also connect you via trains, trams, and ferries. Plus, many institutions offer student discounts on travel, helping you save money while you explore your new home.
Cars and Driving
Australia’s extensive highway network makes exploring by car easy, provided you remember to drive on the left. Since licensing rules vary by state, you may need an International Driving Permit or an official translation to accompany your current license. Vehicle insurance is also mandatory. Before driving, always check the local state transport website to ensure you meet all legal requirements.
Taxi and Ridesharing Services
While taxis are available in every city, they can be expensive and are best saved for when public transit is not an option. Ridesharing apps like Uber and DiDi are popular alternatives and are widely available across the country.
Air Travel
Because Australia is so vast, flying is often the easiest way to travel between major cities. All main hubs have airports with frequent connecting flights. Popular airlines like Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar make exploring the country quick and convenient.
Banking and Money
Australia uses the Australian Dollar (AUD). Notes come in values of $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100, while coins range from 5 cents to $2. Because the smallest coin is 5 cents, prices in shops are always rounded up or down to the nearest 5 cents when you pay with cash.
Cash, Cards, and Online Banking
While cash is accepted almost everywhere, debit and credit cards are the most popular way to pay because they are convenient. Checks are sometimes used for large payments like rent. Online banking is also very common for paying bills, and most universities offer easy online options for paying tuition.
Withdrawing Cash
You can withdraw cash by visiting a bank teller or using an Automated Teller Machine (ATM). ATMs are available 24/7. While you can use ATMs belonging to other banks or private machines found in stores, be aware that these usually charge an extra fee.
Opening a Bank Account
Many banks offer special student accounts designed to save you money on fees. You can often apply online up to three months before you arrive in Australia. Once you land, simply visit a local branch with your passport and proof of address to activate the account. You can also wait and open an account in person after you arrive.
Some of the main banks in Australia are:
Australia New Zealand Bank (ANZ)
Commonwealth Bank of Australia
Internet
Australia has high-quality internet service. You can access free Wi-Fi on campus using your student email account. For your home, you can sign up for a high-speed internet plan for a monthly fee from providers like Telstra, Optus, TPG, and others.
Mobile Phone
Most people in Australia use mobile phones. You can bring your own phone from home and simply buy a new SIM card at the airport or a grocery store when you arrive. You can choose a prepaid plan or a monthly contract. If you need a new phone, you can buy one upfront or pay for it slowly as part of a monthly plan.
Many plans include international calling, but using apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or Telegram is the most common way to stay in touch with family back home.
Entertainment, Media, and Sports
There is always something to do in Australia. Since most cities are on the coast, spending time at the beach and having barbecues are very popular activities. Australians also love dining out and going to the movies.
Sports are a huge part of the culture, especially rugby, cricket, and Australian football. While universities don’t usually have professional teams, they have plenty of clubs and gyms where you can play sports and stay active.
Personal Safety
Australia is a very safe country, but it is always smart to be careful. Trust your instincts and follow these safety tips:
Call 000 for police, fire, or ambulance emergencies.
Swim only at beaches patrolled by lifeguards.
Walk in well-lit areas. Most campuses offer security escorts to walk you to your bus or dorm at night.
Keep your home and car locked and watch your belongings.
Adjusting to Life in Australia
It is normal to miss home sometimes, but Australian schools are ready to support you. They offer many free services, including academic help, international student advisors, job search assistance, and prayer rooms. Joining clubs and exploring your new neighborhood are great ways to make friends and feel at home.