🌏 Welcome to Your Onshore Journey in Australia! 🇦🇺

As a newly arrived international student in Australia, you’re embarking on an exciting journey filled with opportunities for growth and exploration. Adjusting to a new country and academic environment can be both thrilling and challenging.

To help you navigate this experience successfully, here’s a comprehensive guide on the top 10 essential things to do now that you’ve arrived in Australia:

✅ 1. Complete Arrival Formalities

Even though you’re already here, ensure you’ve covered all essential administrative tasks:

• 🏫 Register with Your Institution: Confirm your registration with your educational institution to access academic resources and support services.
• 📢 Attend Orientation Sessions: If you haven’t already, attend any remaining orientation sessions to gain valuable insights into campus life.
• 🏠 Notify Your Education Provider of Your Residential Address: Within seven days of your arrival, inform your institution of your residential address to comply with communication and safety requirements.

💰 2. Banking and Finances

Managing your finances effectively is crucial:

• 🏦 Open a Local Bank Account: If you haven’t done so yet, consider opening a local bank account to manage your finances conveniently.

📱 3. Stay Connected

Stay connected with your loved ones and access essential information:

• 📶 Get a Local SIM Card or Phone Plan: Ensure you have a local SIM card or phone plan for seamless communication.

🚉 4. Transportation

Australia’s public transportation system is highly convenient. Obtain the necessary transport card for your city:

• Opal Card (Sydney): Purchase an Opal card at:
  • Opal retailers
  • Opal website (order and recharge online)
  • Selected Transport Customer Service Centers
  • Service NSW locations
• SmartRider Card (Perth): Get a SmartRider card at retail outlets to access Perth’s buses, trains, and ferries.

📚 5. Academic Preparation

Set yourself up for academic success:

• 🎓 Familiarize Yourself with Your Course Requirements: Understand your curriculum and course expectations.
• 📖 Prepare Your Study Materials: Gather necessary textbooks, stationery, and digital resources.

💲 6. Financial Management

Effective budgeting is essential for a stress-free student life:

• 📊 Create a Budget for Living Expenses: Plan and adjust your expenses accordingly.
• 💼 Part-Time Work Options: Explore job opportunities while adhering to student visa work rights.
• 📝 Obtain a Tax File Number (TFN) or Australian Business Number (ABN): Essential if you plan to work in Australia.

🏙️ 7. Explore Your Neighborhood

Get familiar with your surroundings:

• 🛒 Discover Nearby Amenities: Find grocery stores, pharmacies, and other essential services.
• 🍽️ Explore Markets and Eateries: Experience Australia’s diverse food scene.
• 🚶 Take a Walking Tour: Stroll around your new city and uncover hidden gems.

🌏 8. Travel and Exploration

Australia offers incredible travel opportunities:

• 🗺️ Research Popular Tourist Destinations: Plan weekend getaways and explore stunning locations across the country.

🚨 9. Emergency Preparedness

Stay prepared for any unforeseen situations:

• 📖 Familiarize Yourself with Emergency Procedures: Learn about safety protocols and evacuation procedures.
• 📞 Have a Contact Person for Emergencies: Establish a reliable contact in case of unexpected situations.

💙 10. Health and Well-being

Prioritize your mental and physical health:

• 🏥 Locate Healthcare Facilities: Familiarize yourself with the Australian healthcare system.
• 🧠 Mental Health Support: If you need help, call 000 for immediate assistance.
• For a comprehensive list of mental health services, visit Health NSW’s support contact list.
• 🏋️ Find Gyms & Recreational Facilities: Stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

🎉 Enjoy Your Australian Experience!

By following these ten essential steps, you’ll not only navigate the initial challenges of being an international student in Australia but also embrace the exciting opportunities that await.

🌟 Welcome to your onshore journey in Australia! We wish you success and an incredible experience ahead.

📞 Need Assistance?

For further support, contact Lead College:

• 📲 Phone: +61 2 8677 7077
• 📧 Email: [email protected]

📢 Follow us on social media for updates, tips, and valuable information! 🚀