Now that you've arrived in Australia there's some things you should do in your first few days.
You'll need to give us the essential information listed below.
All students need a Unique Student Identifier (USI) to study in Australia. You can apply for yours on the Australian Government's USI website once you've arrived. It doesn't take long to complete. Then, you can add your USI to Sydney Student by going to ‘My details’ then ‘Personal details’.
You'll need to indicate that you're onshore. You can update your onshore/offshore status by logging in to Sydney Student and going to ‘My details’ then ‘Personal details’.
If you're on a student visa, it's a condition of your visa that you let us know your residential address in Australia within seven days of arriving. You can update this in Sydney Student by going to 'My details', then ‘Address & residency'.
If any other information has changed, such as your phone number or personal email address, you'll also need to update this in Sydney Student by going to 'My details', then ‘Address & residency'.
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.
Getting a mobile phone set up will likely be a top priority.
You'll also need to 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.
Financial and identity scams
Keep your important personal details safe when you are getting settled into Australia. Read our guidelines on protecting yourself from financial and identity theft scams.
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.
