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Guide to living in Australia

Understanding the basics like banking, transport, communication and the cost of living in Australia can help you feel more prepared when you arrive.

Whether you’re sailing for Sydney, moving to Melbourne or packing for Perth, there’s a lot to think about when moving to Australia from the UK, US, India, or elsewhere. Having a checklist to deal with visas and other admin is one thing; learning the local lingo and settling in can take longer.

Here are some general tips for adjusting to living in Australia.

Visa requirements

  • First, check that your passport is valid for at least 6 months
  • Apply for your visa – there are different options, including student, skilled worker and family visas, so make sure you get the right one
  • Look carefully at your visa conditions, including work restrictions and duration
  • Allow yourself enough time to gather all the documents you need for your application
  • If you haven’t applied yet, it can help to consult a migration or travel agent to get more information on how to move to Australia and which visa is appropriate for your circumstances

Banking and finances

Having an Australian bank account before moving can make the adjustment much easier. For instance, you may have to provide bank details when you find a job or open a utility account. While most banks do not offer this, you can apply online from abroad for a local HSBC account.

Explore: Opening an Australian account

  • Take note of the exchange rate between the Australian dollar and your home currency
  • To work in Australia, you'll need a Tax File Number (TFN) and you may also need to let your country’s tax office know that you’re moving overseas
  • Once you start working, you’ll contribute to the superannuation system, Australia’s compulsory retirement savings scheme
  • It’s a good idea to understand the wage and employment regulations in Australia before moving and starting work

Learn more: Tips for banking in Australia

Health insurance

  • First, find out whether you need a health check or any vaccinations before relocating to Australia
  • Check your visa – some will require you to get private health insurance, giving you access to a range of private hospitals
  • All international students in Australia must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which may be required as part of a student visa application
  • Make sure your health insurance is valid during your stay – it can help to get a travel insurance policy to cover you during your move
  • Australia has a government-run healthcare system called Medicare – there may be some circumstances where you can apply for Medicare but generally you will need to have a permanent residency visa or be a citizen

Accommodation

  • Try to arrange temporary accommodation, at least while exploring your long-term options, bearing in mind that finding somewhere to live can be expensive and the cost of living in Australia can be high
  • There is an active and competitive rental market in Australia – typically, properties are listed through real-estate agents who manage the rental property on behalf of a landlord
  • Most rental rates are weekly and rental leases are for 12 months, however it is possible to negotiate a different term
  • If you’re a student, most universities and colleges will help you find suitable accommodation – find out more with HSBC Beyond Banking

Mobile and internet services

  • One of the first things you’ll need to do is get a local SIM card or eSIM to get a mobile phone number
  • Research the different mobile plans and internet companies – there are several large providers
  • Most companies that offer mobile plans can also provide broadband services
  • Australia has good coverage on a modern high-speed network
  • Most residences in Australia have access to high-speed broadband internet
  • If you’re going to use your existing phone, check that it’s not locked to your carrier – most mobile phones in Australia are unlocked so you can use any provider
  • There may be discounted phone plans for students – check with your student services

Other admin

Don’t forget to tie up loose ends before leaving your home country.

This can include redirecting your post, paying final bills, and cancelling subscriptions and utilities. It’s also helpful to gather any documents you may need, like rental references, school reports, police reports, educational qualifications and employment references.

Transport

  • Most major Australian cities have extensive public transport systems, with trains, buses and trams
  • They use different transport apps and cards, which you can buy online or at airports, stations and convenience stores
  • Students can usually get a student concession card for discounted fares
  • All major cities have taxi services and popular rideshare options are available, while car rentals are also possible
  • Apply for an international driver’s licence before moving, so you can legally drive when you arrive
  • Remember that Australians drive on the left side of the road

Education

  • If you have children, it helps to familiarise yourself with the Australian education system and find out more about studying in Australia
  • Some public schools only accept students who live within the local catchment area
  • Certain schools have entrance exams
  • If you’re studying, explore what student support services are available, such as orientation, counselling, academic support, and career guidance

Emergency services

The emergency contact number in Australia is 000. This will get you in touch with the police, fire services and ambulance.

Climate and weather

  • Australia has diverse climates, from the tropical north to the temperate south, so be prepared for different weather conditions depending on your location and the season
  • Australia is in the southern hemisphere, so winter is in the middle of the year – winters are generally mild, except in the south, while summers are mostly hot and dry
  • Slip Slop Slap (slip on a shirt, slop on some sunscreen and slap on a hat) is a well-known Australian phrase encouraging people to protect themselves from the sun’s rays during the hot summers

Cultural awareness

  • Australia is a large and diverse country with nationalities from all over the world and many different faiths
  • Most Australians are laid-back, have a relaxed attitude to life, and are generally tolerant and friendly to outsiders
  • Being open-minded and willing to learn about and respect cultural differences will make it easier to assimilate into Australian culture

Social integration

  • It’s often difficult to make new friends when you move, so joining clubs, societies, religious or community groups can help you integrate and meet new people
  • Australia is a country that loves its sports - one way to meet people is by getting involved in sports clubs
  • If you’re a student, attending orientation events is a great way to make new friends

Language

  • You may need to adapt your communication style when arriving – Australian conversations are generally informal and straightforward
  • While English is the primary language, a lot of Australians speak other languages at home or are used to conversing with non-English speakers – so don’t be shy to strike up a conversation
  • If you’re not a native English speaker and are struggling with the language after moving to Australia, seek language support services if needed

 

Article first published January 2025

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Disclaimer

This article is intended to provide general information of an educational nature only. This information should not be relied upon as financial product advice as it does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider the appropriateness of the information to your own circumstances and seek independent legal and financial advice prior to making any investment choice. There are risks associated with any investment and this document is not intended to list all of them in respect to any particular investment opportunity. Prices, levels and indications contained in this document are illustrative only and may not represent future performance. HSBC does not warrant or represent the performance of any investment opportunity.