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Arriving in Sydney
- Overview
- Prepare for your move
- What to do when you get to Sydney
- Settle in to life in Sydney
Settle in to life in Sydney
Now that you’ve safely arrived in Sydney and checked into your accommodation, it’s time to start exploring and settle in to life as a student in Sydney.
Your first week in Sydney
Moving to a new country is a huge step, and there’s no shortage of things to do when you arrive, so we’ve highlighted the top five things to do in your first week here in Sydney.
Buy some groceries and essential living items
Now that you’re officially living in Sydney, it’s time to get out and explore your new surroundings and services near you. The closest shopping centres to the Camperdown/Darlington campus are Broadway and Central Park, and there are lots of others in nearby suburbs of Newtown, Glebe and Chippendale.
Stock up on groceries and toiletries at the local supermarkets, Woolworths, Coles, Aldi or IGA. If you are in an unfurnished room off-campus, you may also need to buy items for your first few nights until you have a chance to shop for furniture. You can find affordable bedding, and household electronics at shops such as Kmart, Target or IKEA.
Connect your phone
Most on-campus student accommodation options offer free Wi-Fi. Be sure to ask for the login and password on arrival so you can make contact with loved ones and let them know you have arrived safely. If you are in off-campus housing, it’s likely your roommates also have Wi-Fi set up in the house.
Getting a mobile phone set up will likely be a top priority. A prepaid account is a flexible, easy option if you just want a SIM card to use in your existing phone. A fixed plan locks in a monthly price and can include a handset, whilst also offering cheaper rates on messages and phone calls when used in bulk. Make sure to do plenty of research when picking an option.
Open an Australian bank account
To open an Australian bank account, you’ll need proof of enrolment, photo identification, proof of your Australian address and an Australian Tax File Number (available from the Australian Tax Office). Visit your chosen bank’s website to find out more about the specific documents required. You can also exchange currency at our bank branches if you’ve travelled to Australia with money from home.
Get familiar with safety, services and support
Sydney is largely a safe and friendly city, but it’s also a busy one with lots of people and traffic. Stay alert when using footpaths and roadways, and don’t let your phone distract you from your surroundings. Read up on pedestrian safety tips from the City of Sydney (pdf, 597KB).
It’s important that while you’re in Australia, you know what to do in the unlikely event of an emergency. Should you require police, ambulance or fire brigade services, the phone number to contact is 000. To ensure you are prepared for any situation, read up on how to contact campus security, as well as emergency procedures for evacuations, lockdowns and other threats.
Familiarise yourself with the details of your Overseas Health Cover (OSHC). If you need to access any health services, we have plenty on the Camperdown/Darlington campus, including a medical centre, chiropractor, physiotherapist, dentist and optometrist.
Explore your new suburb and surrounds
Of course, one of the best reasons to study at the University of Sydney is that you will be right in the heart of our amazing city. The University is surrounded by world famous sites and attractions. There’s no shortage of activities to keep you busy between classes or on weekends. If you’re seeking inspiration, check out What's On in Sydney.
You’re going to have the time of your life at the University of Sydney. You’ll learn valuable skills to help shape your future, while making lifelong friends and embracing new experiences.
Last updated: 07 November 2023
