You're finally here and the next few weeks will be exciting and full of adventures. Here’s a few tips and resources to help you settle in and stay safe, as you start exploring a new culture and country.
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.
You can also connect to University Wi-Fi while on campus.
Next, decide between using one of the three network providers (Telstra, Optus and Vodafone), or a re-seller that operates off one of those networks. It's a good idea do your own research to make sure that you have coverage at your accommodation and anywhere you need it, at a price that works for you.
The Australian Government's Money Smart website has tips for choosing a plan.
You may not need an Australian bank account on your first day, but it's definitely a step to consider as soon as you get the chance.
You will be able to pay for many things using your bank account from your home country. However, it's important to be aware that there could be additional transaction fees and delays.
While some Australian businesses you visit in person will be 'cash-only' or 'card-only', it is very common to be able to choose your payment method.
To open an Australian account, you’ll need:
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.
Sonder is a smartphone app designed to give you 24/7 on-demand access to wellbeing and safety professionals and resources, all at the touch of a button.
As an international student, you'll receive an email from Sonder at your University email account in the weeks surrounding the start of semester. The email will have the subject line ‘Welcome to Sonder’. You can then download the app and create your account.
New South Wales has some of the world’s best beaches, rivers and lakes but they can also present some dangers. It’s important to know how to stay safe when you go near the water’s edge, whether it’s for swimming, fishing or just to take a photo.
Sydney enjoys sunny weather almost all year long, however UV radiation from the sun can increase your risk of skin cancer. Wear sunscreen, loose clothes and a broad-brimmed hat, and try to stay out of the sun during the hottest hours of the day (10am to 3pm).
Within an hour or two from the city, you'll find National Parks and 'The Australian Bush'. Whether you're visiting the Three Sisters in Katoomba, or just having a picnic in your local park, it's a good idea to know what to do when you come across wildlife and other risks. Plan ahead by checking out these sites:
The International Student Health Hub covers topics including sexual and reproductive health, overseas student health cover, the Australian Health Care System, relationships, contraception and pregnancy, and more. Designed alongside international students, the website is a collaboration of over 50 organisations across New South Wales, Australia. Visit the International Student Health Hub.
You can also access our University Health Service, which is located on level 3 of the Wentworth Building on the Darlington Campus.
In New South Wales there are strict rules on cigarette smoking and vaping. These include where you can purchase products and where you can use them. You may be fined if you don’t follow the rules.
In Australia, your rights as a worker are protected by law. If you decide to work as an international student you are entitled to fair pay and working conditions.
Find out more about your rights by reading the Fair Work Ombudsman’s fact sheets for International students. You can also report a workplace that isn’t following the law or get advice about resolving a workplace issue.
Your student representative bodies also have advice about working in Australia:
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