SettlementGuide

Australia has strict regulations regarding the importation of certain items and the collection of passenger information upon arrival. You will be asked about these items when you arrive in Australia.

It is recommended that food items be packed in their original packaging with English labels. If the items do not have English labels or are not in their original packaging, the label should clearly state the name and details of the product in English.

To find a list of prohibited or restricted items you can bring into Australia and their permitted quantities, visit the official website:

Australian Border Force – Can You Bring It In

Australia does not impose a limit on the amount of cash you can bring into the country. However, if you are carrying more than AUD 10,000 or the equivalent in other currencies, you must declare it.

While Australia does not impose a restriction on the amount of cash you can bring in, it’s important to be aware that your departure airport may have its own limits on the amount of currency and securities you are allowed to carry.

For example:

• Some airports may allow you to carry out up to €5,000 in cash or negotiable instruments.
• Bringing in up to €10,000 may not require a customs declaration, but anything beyond that could involve customs procedures or legal implications.

Exceeding these limits might be considered currency smuggling and could lead to serious legal consequences. Always check with the relevant authorities before your trip.

It is best to avoid bringing items listed on the IPC card into Australia. If you must bring any of these items, inform the customs officer upon arrival, although they might still be confiscated at the airport.

To inform the officer, you will need to present the IPC (Incoming Passenger Card), which will be provided to you on the plane. This card (in English) asks about your personal history and any items you are carrying.

Important Note:

Be careful when filling out the information in this form, as it will be reviewed by the Australian Immigration Department. Any discrepancies, such as listing a different job title than the one you may claim later on visa applications, could cause problems. You may use general titles like Employee or Self-Employed based on your situation.

Passengers must answer all relevant questions and tick the boxes if they are carrying any of the restricted items.

Failure to declare items or inform the officer will result in penalties if the prohibited items are discovered at the airport.

Upon arriving in Australia, you will typically be able to purchase an Australian SIM card at the airport. It’s recommended to start with a prepaid SIM card that offers a one-month plan.

The amount you pay for this SIM card is for the data volume provided, and you won’t be charged for unlimited calls and texts.

The major Australian telecommunications providers are:

• Optus
• Vodafone
• Telstra

   

During your stay in Australia, you can choose a postpaid plan or a Sim Only Plan based on your experience, the pricing, and the quality of service from the operators. With a Sim Only Plan, you’ll pay a fixed monthly fee based on the internet data package you choose. These plans typically start at AUD 40 per month.

To compare prices, services, and the coverage of different operators, you can use these useful websites:

• Finder
• Compare the Market

   

Additionally, you can keep your home country SIM card while in Australia. These SIM cards typically still work for receiving SMS for free, which can be useful for verification codes and bank notifications. However, sending text messages, making calls, or receiving calls will usually incur international roaming charges. Make sure to check the specific terms and fees with your mobile provider.

1. Sydney: Opal Card

• Adult Card Cost: Free to obtain; you must load a minimum top-up of $20 for adults at retail stores or at Opal recharge stations.
• Child and Concession Card: Available with a minimum top-up of $10 for children and concession holders (e.g., students, seniors).
• How to Purchase: Available at Opal retailers, online, and at various stations across Sydney.
• Card Types:
  • Adult Opal Card (for full-fare passengers)
  • Child/Youth Opal Card (for those aged 4–15)
  • Concession Opal Card (for seniors, pensioners, or holders of specific government cards)
  • School Opal Card (for students attending school)
  • Seniors and Retirees: Special Opal cards for retirees and pensioners.
  • Free Travel Opal for eligible users.
• Pricing:
  • Adult Daily Cap: $19.30 (Monday–Thursday) and $9.65 (Friday–Sunday)
  • Concession/Child Daily Cap: $9.65 (Monday–Thursday) and $4.80 (Friday–Sunday).
  • Weekly Cap: $50 for adults, $25 for children and concession cardholders.
  • Airport Station Access Fee: $17.92 for adults, $16.03 for children/concession cardholders.
• Where to Buy: Available at retail outlets, Opal stores, online, or directly from charging stations and machines in train stations and major bus terminals.
• Note: Fares and daily caps for Opal cards increase yearly based on inflation (around 2.5% annually). Keep this in mind when budgeting for transport costs. For more details and to order online, visit Opal Card Page.

2. Melbourne: Myki Card

• Adult Card Cost: $30 for full-fare cards, which includes $24 of Myki Money.
• Concession Card Cost: $15, which includes $12 of Myki Money.
• Where to Buy: Available at 7-Eleven, major PTV Hubs, and stations across Melbourne. You can also order it online, though it might take up to two weeks to receive the card.
• How to Use: You can use Myki to travel on trains, trams, and buses.
• Pricing:
  • Adult Full Fare: $6 per trip
  • Concession Fare: $3 per trip
  • Daily Cap: $11.00 for adults and $5.50 for concession holders.
  • Weekend/Off-Peak Cap: $7.60 for adults and $3.80 for concession holders.
  • Student 28-Day Pass: Now available for $10 (reduced from $28.60).
• Note: In Melbourne, student cards and other discounts are applied directly to the Myki card. Some 7-Eleven stores and stations allow you to purchase weekly passes and top-ups. For more details, visit Myki Page.

3. Brisbane: Go Card

• Adult Card Cost: Starts from $10 (includes initial credit).
• Concession and Child Card Cost: Starts from $5.
• Where to Buy: Available at retail outlets, TransLink retail agents, and online.
• Pricing:
  • Adult Fare: Starts from $3.20 for 1–2 zones.
  • Concession Fare: Approximately 50% of the adult fare.
  • Daily Cap: $50 for adults, $25 for children or concession holders.
• Where to Buy: Available at more than 680 locations, including train stations, bus depots, and major retail stores across Southeast Queensland. You can also buy and top up online.
• Note: Go Card is compatible with all public transport services in South East Queensland. You can also use credit cards for contactless payments for your travel. For more details, visit Go Card Page.

4. Adelaide: metroCARD

• Standard Card Cost: $5.
• Concession Card Cost: $3.50.
• Where to Buy: Available at Adelaide Metro InfoCentres and various outlets across the city. You can also buy and top-up your card online.
• Pricing:
  • Adult Fare: $4.05 during peak hours and $2.25 during off-peak times.
  • Concession/Child Fare: $2.00 during peak hours, $1.10 off-peak.
  • Student 28-Day Pass: Available for $10.
  • Minimum Top-Up: $5.
• Note: Cards and metro services in Adelaide are not refundable. For more details, visit metroCARD Page.

5. Canberra: MyWay Card

• Adult Card Cost: Starts at $2.50 for an initial card.
• Student Card Cost: Starts at $2.50 for an initial card.
• Where to Buy: Available from MyWay retail agents, online, or sales outlets in Canberra.
• Pricing:
  • Adult Fare: $1.61 per trip
  • Student Fare: $1.22 on school days, $1.61 on non-school days.
  • Daily Cap: $4.80 (Adult), $2.17 (Student).
  • Monthly Cap: Limited to 30 trips for students, and 40 trips for adult students. After these caps, travel is free for the rest of the month.
• Note: MyWay offers free Wi-Fi for up to 90 minutes on buses and trains. For more details, visit MyWay Page.

6. Perth: SmartRider

• Standard Card Cost: $10 (includes $10 credit).
• Concession Card Cost: $5 (includes $5 credit).
• Where to Buy: Available at Transperth InfoCentres and retail outlets.
• Pricing:
  • Adult Fare: $2.50–$5.00 depending on distance.
  • Concession/Student Fare: Approximately 50% of the adult fare.
  • Seniors: Free travel for seniors during specified hours.
• Note: SmartRider has a minimum recharge of $5. The card is also available for students, seniors, and concession holders. For more details, visit SmartRider Page.

Bank Cards for Public Transport

Some cities, such as Sydney, now allow passengers to use bank cards (debit or credit) for public transport instead of a dedicated transport card. This system is called contactless payments and works similarly to the Opal and Myki systems, enabling payments directly through your Visa, MasterCard, or Apple Pay.

For example, in Sydney, you can now use your bank card to travel on public transport without needing to purchase an Opal card.

To work in Australia for an individual or a company, you are required to obtain a Tax File Number (TFN).

Getting a TFN typically takes 10 days to 1 month, so it’s recommended that you apply for it as soon as you arrive in Australia.

If you plan to work as a sole trader or a contractor, you are required to apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN). For an easier and smoother process, it’s recommended to consult with an accountant when applying for an ABN to ensure all legal procedures are followed correctly.

Steps to Apply for a TFN:

1. Visit the TFN Application Page
   Go to the official TFN application page for foreign passport holders and temporary visa holders:
   ATO TFN Application
2. Select the Option
   Choose “Apply online for a TFN using the IAR” (Individual Application Request).
3. Fill Out the Application Form
   You will need to complete a series of questions on a page that includes five sections:
   • Identification:
     • Enter your passport number and country of origin (select Iran).
     • If you have visited Australia before, answer the relevant question.
     • Ensure that your name matches exactly as it appears on your passport or travel document.
     • Answer questions such as whether you’ve ever applied for a TFN or ABN, and whether you have ever lodged a tax return in Australia.
4. Address Information
   Enter your residential address in Australia where your TFN will be mailed within 28 days. If you want your postal address to be the same as your residential address, tick the relevant box. If they are different, enter both addresses.
5. Contact Information
   Provide your phone number and email address. You can also choose to add another person’s contact details in case the ATO needs to reach them.
6. Summary
   Review all the details you’ve entered. Ensure the information is accurate and complete. Take a screenshot or note down your information for reference.
7. Submit the Application
   After verifying your details, tick the box “Tick this box to sign this declaration” and the “I’m not a robot” checkbox. Then, click Submit.

What Happens After Submission:

• Processing Time:
  After submitting your application, your TFN will be mailed to the address you provided within 28 days. However, you can contact the ATO after one week at 1300 720 092 to inquire about your TFN.
• Phone Verification:
  If your TFN is ready, the ATO will ask a few questions to verify your identity. Make sure you have your identification documents handy when you call.
• Updating Your Address:
  If your address changes after submitting your TFN application, you must notify the ATO of your new address to ensure your TFN is sent to the correct location.

Important Notes:

• If you are applying for a sole trader or contractor, you will need to apply for an ABN. You can apply for both the TFN and ABN at the same time through the ATO website, but for smooth processing, especially if you are self-employed, consulting an accountant is recommended.
• The ABN process is more straightforward for individuals setting up businesses or contracting, and it is essential for tax purposes when working as an independent contractor or starting a business.

TFN application is free, and once you have your TFN, it’s important to keep it secure and avoid sharing it unnecessarily.

It is a legal requirement in Australia for international students to inform their education provider of their residential address within 7 days of arriving in the country. This is part of your visa conditions, and failing to comply can lead to complications with your visa status.

Why It’s Important:

• Visa Compliance: Informing your education provider of your address ensures that you meet the conditions of your visa.
• Emergency Contact: This allows the provider to contact you in case of an emergency.
• Institutional Records: Your address will be registered in the institution’s system, helping them keep accurate records for communication and administrative purposes.

How to Notify Your Education Provider:

1. Online Submission: Most universities and institutions have an online portal or student management system where you can update your address. Log in to your student account and update the information.
2. In Person: If you’re unable to do this online, visit the institution’s student services or administrative office to update your details in person.
3. Email: Some institutions may allow you to email your new address to the student services department. Make sure to include your student ID and full details.

What to Include:

• Full Residential Address: Ensure that the address you provide is complete, including the street name, suburb, and postcode.

Updated Contact Details: Include your phone number and email address if they have changed.

To verify your identity and apply for a Director ID, you’ll need to install the MyGovID app on your smartphone. This app is used for identity verification through abrs.gov.au.

Option 1: Online Application (requires an Australian driver’s license)

You’ll need:

• MyGovID app with at least Standard identity level
• Australian driver’s license
• TFN, residential address, and passport

Steps:

1. Go to abrs.gov.au/directorIDapply
2. Enter your MyGovID email and confirm the code
3. Fill in your details and submit. Your Director ID will appear immediately if approved.

Option 2: Paper Application (if you don’t have a driver’s license)

You’ll need:

• Completed Director ID form (PDF)
• NAATI translations of ID documents (e.g. national ID, birth certificate) done by a NAATI translator in Australia
• TFN, passport, and visa copies
• Certified copies of all documents by a JP (Justice of the Peace)

Send everything to:
Locked Bag 6000, ALBURY NSW 2640, AUSTRALIA

If you are in Australia on a temporary visa (such as a student visa) and do not have Medicare, you must apply for an IHI number. This number allows you to access digital health records and is often required when interacting with the Australian healthcare system.

You do NOT need an IHI number if you:

• Already have a Medicare card
• Have a DVA (Department of Veterans’ Affairs) card
• Are already enrolled in Medicare

   

How to Get an IHI Number

Option 1: Apply Online via myGov (Fastest Method)

You must be in Australia to apply online so your identity can be verified.

Documents required:

• A valid passport with an Australian visa,
  OR
• An Australian driver’s licence

   

Steps:

1. Log in to your myGov account
2. Go to Services
3. Select Individual Healthcare Identifier
4. Follow the prompts to complete the application and receive your IHI number

If you don’t have a myGov account yet, you’ll need to set one up first (see our earlier section on setting up myGov).

Option 2: Apply by Submitting a Paper Form

If you don’t have access to digital identity documents, you can apply manually.

Download and complete this form:
IHI Registration Form (MS003)

Send it along with your supporting documents (e.g. passport and visa) to the address listed in the form.

All international students on a student visa are required to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). This cover includes essential medical services such as doctor visits, hospital stays, and a portion of prescription medication costs — and it’s a must-have for obtaining your visa.

However, OSHC is a basic health cover, and it may not fully meet your health needs while living in Australia. That’s why many students choose to upgrade or supplement their OSHC with additional private health insurance or ambulance cover.

What OSHC usually doesn’t cover:

• Dental treatments
• Eye care (glasses/contact lenses)
• Physiotherapy and chiropractic
• Mental health or counselling (limited)
• Many out-of-hospital specialist services
• Full ambulance costs (varies by provider)

Why consider extras or private insurance?

• To avoid high out-of-pocket expenses for dental or optical needs
• For better access to allied health services like physio, acupuncture, and massage therapy
• To have more flexibility and faster access to services not included in basic OSHC
• To ensure you’re fully covered in case of an ambulance emergency (especially in states where ambulance services aren’t free)

Top Private Health Insurance Providers in Australia:

• Medibank
• Bupa
• HCF
• NIB
• HBF

   

These companies also offer combined plans or Extras Cover that you can add to your existing OSHC policy. Comparison tools like comparethemarket.com.au or privatehealth.gov.au can help you find the right plan for your needs.

Ambulance Cover: Don’t overlook it

In some states, ambulance services are not free and can cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars if you’re not covered. Some OSHC plans offer basic ambulance coverage, but it’s worth checking if it includes:

• Emergency transport
• Inter-hospital transfers
• Paramedic call-outs

   

If not, you can purchase separate ambulance membership in your state — for example:

• Victoria: ambulance.vic.gov.au
• NSW: ambulance.nsw.gov.au
• QLD: Fully covered by the government

Even though OSHC is mandatory and covers the basics, you may want to add private extras or ambulance insurance for better peace of mind and full coverage — especially for dental, optical, or in emergencies.

To find your first place to live in Australia, you can use the following popular websites:

• https://www.realestate.com.au/
• https://www.domain.com.au/

   

Types of Housing in Australia

Australia offers a variety of housing types, which vary based on location, size, design, and cost. Here are the most common options:

• Detached Houses: Standalone houses with no shared walls, usually found in suburban or rural areas.
• Villas: Single-storey homes arranged in rows, typically in quiet neighborhoods.
• Duplexes: Two homes in one building, sharing a common wall.
• Apartments: Units in multi-storey buildings, often in city centers. These are a popular choice for international students.
• Townhouses: Multi-level homes built in rows. They look like detached houses but are more compact.
• Mansions: Large luxury homes, not typically suitable for students due to high cost.
• Cottages: Traditional, smaller homes usually located in rural areas.
• Shared Housing: Renting a room in a shared house — a budget-friendly option for students.
• Weatherboard Houses: Wooden homes with a classic look, popular in some suburbs.
• Bungalows: Cosy single-storey homes, great for small households.

How Long Does It Take to Find a Place?

Finding your first long-term rental can take 3 to 5 weeks. It’s a process that requires patience and planning, especially in major cities like Sydney or Melbourne.

Best Option for New Students

We recommend renting an apartment as your first home. Apartments usually have:

• Lower utility and maintenance costs
• Easier approval from landlords
• Better locations near universities and public transport

In contrast, detached houses have higher energy bills and often require garden maintenance, which can be both time-consuming and expensive.

Also, landlords of standalone homes are often stricter and prefer tenants with a local rental history. As a new arrival, you may have better chances applying for apartments.

How to Strengthen Your Rental Application

As an international student, you probably don’t have a local rental or employment history — and that’s okay. You can boost your application by:

• Adding a personal reference in Australia (someone who can vouch for you).
• If you don’t know anyone here, reach out to VisaPick Apply — we may be able to help you find one.
• Offer to pay rent in advance (e.g., 3 or 6 months).
• Clearly explain in your application that you’re new to Australia and don’t have previous rental history — transparency helps!
• Mention this in a written comment or cover letter with your application.
• If possible, include a reference from a previous landlord, even from your home country.

Important: Some landlords might view upfront rent offers negatively if they think you’re hiding issues. So it’s best to speak directly with the agent and explain your situation.

Be Flexible with Your First Home

Don’t aim for perfection on your first try. If a home meets even 50% of your expectations, apply for it. You can always upgrade later.

Once you’ve lived in Australia for a year and have built rental and work history, it’ll be easier to secure your ideal home.

Reminder About Your Address

From the moment you arrive in Australia, you’ll be asked to provide a residential address to banks, the tax office, your university, mobile providers, and more.

Make a list of everywhere you’ve shared your address with — so when you move to your permanent home, you can easily update them all.

Once you’ve chosen your home and signed the lease, it’s your responsibility to set up the utilities in your name. In Australia, electricity, gas, and water accounts (and sometimes hot water separately) must be under the name of the person living at the property.

In some homes, water may already be set up and doesn’t need your action — but electricity and gas almost always do.

How to Set Up Utilities

You have two options:

1. Ask the real estate agent to help you set them up (they often assist new tenants).
2. Or, do it yourself by comparing providers using the websites below:

• https://www.finder.com.au/
• https://www.comparethemarket.com.au/

   

Once you choose a provider based on price, plans, and reviews, visit their website and submit your connection request online.

Make sure you schedule the utility activation before your move-in date, so the electricity and gas are ready when you arrive.

If you’re planning to ship your household items from your home country (e.g. Iran), make sure to coordinate the arrival of your shipment with the date you receive your rental property in Australia. Timing is important — you don’t want your items arriving before you have a place to put them!

However, most international students find it easier to buy their furniture and household essentials after arrival.

Where to Buy Household Items in Australia

Here are some popular and trusted websites for buying home goods, furniture, electronics, and appliances:

• Kogan: Great for electronics, home appliances, and tech.
• The Good Guys: Known for fridges, washing machines, ovens, and TVs.
• Harvey Norman: Offers furniture, electronics, and kitchenware.
• JB Hi-Fi: Popular for entertainment systems, computers, and appliances.
• IKEA: Great for budget-friendly furniture and décor.
• Appliances Online: Specialises in large appliances with delivery and installation options.
• Catch: Discounted items including homewares, clothing, and electronics.
• Myer: Mid-range department store for household items and personal goods.
• Bunnings: Best for tools, DIY gear, and home improvement needs.
• Target: Sells homewares, clothes, electronics, toys, and more.

Save Money: Buy Second-Hand

Buying clean second-hand furniture is a great way to save money. It’s very common in Australia and totally acceptable. The best places are:

• Facebook Marketplace
• Gumtree

   

Just be cautious when dealing with individuals — check the item in person before paying.

Tip: Don’t Be Afraid to Negotiate

Yes, you can negotiate prices in Australia, even at big stores like JB Hi-Fi and Harvey Norman. Ask the staff if the price is negotiable — you might get a better deal, especially when buying multiple items.

Also, buy good quality items from the start, so you won’t need to replace them in a year or two. It’s worth the investment.

Once you receive your Tax File Number (TFN), you must notify all the banks where you hold an account.

This is important because:

• It ensures your interest earnings are taxed correctly.
• Without your TFN, the bank may withhold tax at the highest rate (currently 47%).

You can easily update your TFN through:

• Your bank’s mobile app
• Net banking (online banking)
• Or by visiting a local branch

Make sure you do this as soon as your TFN arrives so your accounts stay compliant and you avoid unnecessary tax.

If you’re planning to work while studying in Australia, even on a part-time or casual basis, your employer must pay a portion of your earnings into a superannuation fund—commonly referred to as “super.”

As of July 2025, employers are required to contribute 12% of your regular wages into your super account. This is a form of retirement savings, but the good news is: international students are eligible, and the money is still yours, even if you leave Australia after graduation.

Why Students Should Care

• It’s your money. When you leave Australia permanently, you can claim your super through the Departing Australia Superannuation Payment (DASP) process.
• It’s automatic. Once you start a job, your employer will usually set it up for you unless you request a specific fund.

How to Open or Manage Your Super

1. Accept Your Employer’s Default Fund
   Most employers will set you up with their default fund, usually a “MySuper” account—simple, low-cost, and regulated.
2. Or Choose Your Own Fund
   If you prefer to choose your own super fund, you can research and compare them online based on fees, returns, and insurance. Once selected, share the fund’s details with your employer.
3. Give Your TFN to Your Super Fund
   This is essential. Without your TFN, your contributions may be taxed at a higher rate.

A Few Helpful Tips

• You don’t need to open a super account until you start working in Australia.
• Once you have one super fund, try to stick with it—having multiple accounts can lead to extra fees.
• You can track and manage your super online through your myGov account.

When you’re ready to leave Australia permanently, make sure to claim your super back. It won’t happen automatically.