Bidhan Gupta

Arriving in Australia as an international student is an exciting and sometimes overwhelming experience. Having gone through this myself as a student at Deakin University, I can tell you that there are several key steps you should take to make your transition as smooth as possible. From staying connected with your loved ones to managing your finances and accessing essential services, here’s a guide to the most important tasks you’ll need to complete once you land in Australia. ✈️🇦🇺

1. Get a SIM Card with Your Passport 📱

The first thing I did when I landed in Australia was to get a local SIM card. Trust me, having a working phone number is incredibly important. You’ll need it to stay connected with family, navigate the city, and access many services. To get a SIM card, all you need is your passport as ID, and you’ll be good to go! Mobile providers like Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone offer a range of plans. I opted for a prepaid plan, which was super convenient as I didn’t have to commit to a long-term contract.

2. Obtain Your Student ID Card 🆔

Once you’ve settled in, make sure to head to the Deakin University student services office to collect your student ID card. This card is essential for everything, from accessing the campus library 📚 to getting student discounts on public transport 🚌 and even shopping 🛍️. I remember feeling a little more “official” once I had my ID card – it really made everything feel real. Plus, it’s useful for checking in for university events and accessing facilities like computer labs and printing services.

3. Inform and Update Your Address with the University 🏠

In Australia, universities are required to have up-to-date contact details for all students. As soon as you settle into your accommodation, it’s important to update your address with Deakin University. This is something I did early on, and it made sure I didn’t miss out on any important university updates. You can do this easily online through the university portal, or if you prefer, you can visit the student services office. 📬

4. Open a Bank Account 💳

Opening an Australian bank account is another crucial task when you first arrive. I did this within my first few days at Deakin, and it really helped me manage my finances better. Some of the top banks for international students include Commonwealth Bank, ANZ, NAB, and Westpac. Most banks will let you set up an account before arriving, but if you haven’t done so already, you can open an account once you’re in Australia. It’s essential for receiving any scholarship payments, paying rent, and managing your day-to-day expenses. 💰

5. Get a Health Card from Your Insurance Provider 🏥

As an international student at Deakin University, I’m covered by Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for all international students in Australia. Before I arrived, I made sure to organize my OSHC, but once I got to Melbourne, I visited my insurance provider to finalize my coverage and receive my health card. This card ensures that I can access healthcare services, like doctor’s appointments 🩺 and hospital visits 🏥, at a reduced cost. It’s one of the most important things to take care of early on – you never know when you might need medical help, and it’s better to be prepared. 💊

6. Get a Travel Card (or Myki in Melbourne) 🚆

If you’re arriving in Melbourne, like I did, the next thing you’ll need is a Myki card. Public transport in Melbourne is easy to navigate once you have a Myki card, and it’s essential for getting around the city. You can get one from various stations and shops around the city. I got mine within the first week of arriving, and it’s been a lifesaver for traveling around. Melbourne’s public transport system includes trains, trams, and buses, and a Myki card is accepted for all of them. Some places still accept physical cards, but you can also link your Myki to your bank card for more convenience. 🚋🚍

For those of you heading to other cities, each city has its own travel card system, so make sure to check what’s needed in your specific location. 🗺️

Conclusion

Settling in as an international student in Australia can be overwhelming, but I’ve found that by completing these essential steps early on, my transition to life at Deakin University was much smoother. Getting a local SIM card, student ID, opening a bank account, registering for health insurance, and getting your travel card will make your life in Australia much easier. 😊

By following these steps, you can focus more on your studies 📖 and enjoy your time in Australia, knowing that the practical stuff is sorted. And trust me, as a Deakin student, I can say that the university community is incredibly welcoming and supportive. If you follow this checklist, you'll be ready to dive into university life and explore everything Melbourne has to offer! 🌟