Whether you are coming to Australia as a skilled migrant or as a student, there are few things you must do after you arrive in Australia. We have cooked up a simple to-do list of all that you should do in your first week in Australia:
Day 1 In Australia –
Arrive at your Temporary Accommodation and Settle In
Australia is far far away from the rest of the world. You must have had a long and tiring journey. Hence, after arriving just settle in, relax and allow your body to get used to the change in time zone.
Buy a SIM Card
SIM cards are normally available at the airport, petrol stations and retail stores. Simply identify yourself (Use your passport as an identity proof) and your SIM card will be activated within minutes of purchasing. You can also order your SIM card online and get it delivered to an address in Australia.
Read More : Best Mobile Plans For Calling Overseas
Day 2 In Australia
Purchase a Transport Card
In the initial days you will have to rely on public transport to get around the city. All the cities in Australia have great public transport which can be accessed using transport cards. These cards are an easy way to manage travel expenses and are a convenient alternative to buying separate tickets. Public transport cards are widely available at all train and bus stations.
Read more: Everything You Need To Know About Public Transport Cards
Open A Bank Account
Visit any nearby bank branch and open a savings account. Do not forget to carry your passport and visa grant letter with you to identify yourself at the branch. Opening an account and activating it takes around 10-15 minutes.
If you have opened an account from overseas, you will have to visit the branch and identify yourself to “activate” the account and access the money.
Read more: Opening A Bank Account After Moving
Also Read : Opening A Bank Account Before Moving
Day 3-4 In Australia
Apply For Tax File Number
All temporary or permanent visitors who wish to work in Australia need to have a Tax File Number for tax and superannuation purposes. For More Information read here about Apply for TFN.
Register For Medicare And Centrelink
If you eligible for Medicare, make sure you register at the earliest. For this, you need to fill up the medicare form and submit it at your nearest Medicare center. Do take along your passport and a copy of your visa grant letter.
Read here about Medicare.
Centrelink is a program of the Australian Government that delivers a range of different government payments and services. Read here about Centrelink Benefits.
Create a MyGov Account
MyGov is an online platform to access government services like Medicare, CentreLink, Australian Taxation Office (ATO), Child Support etc. Read here about MyGov Account.
Download for free: A detailed plan of action for your first week after you land in Australia.
Most importantly, in your first week, you must relax, feel comfortable and explore your surroundings as much as you can. Be inquisitive, ask questions where needed, take in as much as you can and most importantly, enjoy your new life!
And remember, Chalo Australia is always there to help you!
Good luck!
