Preparing to Travel to Australia

Before you embark on your journey to Australia, completing a few key tasks will ensure a smooth departure and arrival. This pre-departure checklist covers important logistical arrangements:

• Confirm Travel Dates: Double-check your flight details and ensure they align with your visa validity and course start date.
• Book Accommodation: Secure at least temporary accommodation for your first few days or weeks in Australia.
• Inform Your Education Provider: Let your institution know your arrival details, especially if they are arranging your airport pick-up or initial accommodation.
• Health Check-up: Visit your doctor for a general health check-up and ensure all necessary vaccinations are up to date.
• Travel Insurance: While your OSHC covers health within Australia, consider additional travel insurance for your journey to cover unexpected events like flight delays or lost luggage.

Packing smart can save you hassle and money. Focus on bringing what's essential and remember Australia has good shopping facilities for most items:

• Clothing: Pack a mix of light clothing for warmer weather and some layers for cooler evenings or air-conditioned environments. Don't forget swimwear!
• Medications: Bring any prescription medications you need, along with a doctor's letter. Be aware of Australian import rules for medicines.
• Adaptor: Australia uses Type I power outlets (three flat pins). Bring a universal travel adaptor.
• Personal Documents: Keep your passport, visa grant letter, Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), and other crucial documents in your carry-on luggage.
• Sentimental Items: A few photos or small comforts from home can help with homesickness.

Ensure you have access to funds upon arrival and understand Australia's currency regulations:

• Australian Currency: Australia uses Australian Dollars (AUD$). Familiarize yourself with the denominations.
• Initial Cash: Carry a small amount of Australian cash for immediate expenses upon arrival (e.g., transport, snacks).
• Travel Money Card/Credit Card: Consider pre-loading a travel money card or using an international credit card for larger expenses.
• Bank Account: Research and consider opening an Australian bank account before you arrive, which you can finalize in person.
• Declaring Large Sums: If you are carrying A$10,000 or more in Australian or foreign currency, you must declare it upon arrival.

Having all your critical documents easily accessible is paramount for immigration and settling in:

• Passport: Ensure it's valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
• Visa Grant Letter: Print a copy of your visa grant notification.
• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): Your official proof of enrollment from your Australian education provider.
• Travel Itinerary: Details of your flights and initial accommodation.
• OSHC Policy: Proof of your Overseas Student Health Cover.
• Original Academic Documents: Bring originals or certified copies of your academic qualifications.

Keep these documents in your carry-on luggage, not your checked baggage.

Australia has very strict customs and biosecurity laws to protect its unique environment. Be aware of what you can and cannot bring:

• Declare Everything: If you have any food, plant material, or animal products, always declare them on your Incoming Passenger Card. It is better to declare an item and have it cleared than to face penalties for non-declaration.
• Prohibited Items: Do not bring fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy products, or certain seeds into the country.
• Medicines: If carrying prescription medication, ensure you have a doctor's letter explaining the need for it.

For detailed information, refer to the Australian Border Force website.

Plan how you'll stay in touch with family and access support:

• Mobile Phone: Consider purchasing an Australian SIM card shortly after arrival.
• Emergency Contacts: Ensure your family knows how to contact you and your education provider in an emergency.
• University Support: Familiarize yourself with the international student support services available at your institution.
• Emergency Numbers: Know Australia's emergency services number (000 for Police, Fire, Ambulance).