Student support: arrival and settling in
Your first weeks in Australia are busy. This checklist covers what to do before you fly and after you land, so you can focus on your studies.
On this page
Arriving well prepared makes a big difference. Many tasks can be done before you fly, and the rest are best done in your first two weeks.
Before you fly
- Check your visa grant and conditions, and keep a copy offline
- Arrange temporary accommodation for your first weeks
- Consider opening an Australian bank account online before you arrive; see our bank account guide
- Pack copies of your Confirmation of Enrolment, OSHC details and academic documents
- Bring warm clothes: Hobart winters are cool
Your first two weeks
- Attend orientation and enrol in your classes.
- Get your OSHC card and find a nearby GP clinic.
- Activate your bank account in a branch with your passport.
- Apply for a Tax File Number before you start work.
- Get a phone plan and a transport card.
- Update your address with your education provider.
Finding accommodation
Inspect a property before paying, or have someone you trust inspect it. Never pay a bond or rent to someone you have not verified. In Tasmania, bonds should be lodged with the Rental Deposit Authority, and you should receive a written agreement. See our guide to the cost of living in Hobart.
Who to contact for help
Your provider's international student support team is your first contact for study, wellbeing and accommodation questions. In an emergency, call 000. For visa questions, talk to a registered migration agent.
How Immi Solution helps
Our Hobart team helps clients with practical questions after arrival, such as health cover, course changes and planning the next visa. Ask us about the support we can provide.
Questions people ask
What should I do in my first week in Australia?
Attend orientation, enrol in classes, get your OSHC card, activate your bank account, apply for a Tax File Number and update your address with your provider.
How do I avoid rental scams?
Inspect the property or have someone you trust do it, never pay money to someone you have not verified, and make sure your bond is lodged with the Rental Deposit Authority in Tasmania.
Do I need a Tax File Number to work?
Yes. Apply for a Tax File Number once you arrive and before you start work, so you are taxed correctly.
Official sources
We check this page against the official information below and last reviewed it on 14 November 2026. Rules, fees and processing times change, so confirm the current position before you apply.
