Your First 48 Hours in Australia

Hour 1–4: Arrival & The Airport Essentials

• Clear Customs: Be honest on your Incoming Passenger Card. If you have food or medicine, use the “Red Channel” (Goods to Declare). In 2026, undeclared items can lead to instant $3,000+ fines.
• Get Connected: Do not leave the airport without an Australian SIM card. Optus, Telstra, and Vodafone have kiosks in the arrivals hall. A local number is required for almost every form you will fill out today.
• Currency & Transport: Withdraw some AUD from an ATM. Download Uber, DiDi, or the local transport app (e.g., Opal for Sydney, Myki for Melbourne, Translink for Brisbane) to get to your accommodation.
  
  

Hour 5–12: Settlement & Safety

• Check-In: Inform your family you have arrived safely.
• Grocery Run: Locate your nearest Woolworths, Coles, or Aldi. These are the most affordable places for food and basic household items.
• Map Your Route: Find your nearest train station or bus stop and do a “practice run” to your university campus.
  
  

Hour 13–24: Banking & Identity

• Activate Your Bank Account: If you opened an account online (e.g., CommBank or Westpac), visit a local branch with your passport and CoE to verify your ID and collect your debit card.
• Apply for your USI (Unique Student Identifier): You cannot create this until you have cleared Australian customs. Visit usi.gov.au to get your lifelong education number. You will need this to enroll and graduate.
• TFN (Tax File Number): If you plan to work the allowed 48 hours per fortnight, apply for your TFN online via the ATO website immediately.
  
  

Hour 25–48: Visa Compliance & University Prep

• Update Your Address (Critical): Under Visa Condition 8533, you must notify your education provider of your Australian residential address within 7 days. Do this via your student portal today.
• Collect Your Student ID: Visit the university’s student center. Your ID card often acts as your library card, building access pass, and sometimes your public transport concession card.
• Check O-Week Dates: Ensure you are registered for Orientation Week. This is where you will meet your peers and learn about “Satisfactory Academic Progress” rules.

The “Must-Do” Checklist for 2026

Pro-Tip: The “Digital Wallet” Hack

Most Australian merchants prefer “Tap and Go.” Add your new Australian debit card to your Apple Pay or Google Wallet immediately. Also, download your university’s official app—many now use “Digital IDs” instead of plastic cards.