Moving to Sydney

Travel documents

Prepare to enter Australia with the following:

• valid passport and photocopies of your passport
• student visa (for international students)
• travel itinerary, tickets and insurance
• a list of goods you are bringing to Australia, which might be useful for your own reference, as well as for your customs declaration when you enter the country.

University documents

Bring proof of your admission:

• all offer letters sent to you by the University
• receipts of payments you have made
• all original documents used for admission of your course (as they may be requested).

Other personal documents

• identification, such as a certified copy of birth certificate, driver's licence, international drivers licence (if needed)
• finances, including credit cards, travellers cheques and bank account records
• the same documents for any family members travelling with you, including student reports for any school age children
• any previous reference letters written by landlords, employers etc to assist in obtaining accommodation or work (if allowed under your visa), translated into English if possible
• referral letters from your doctors if you require specialist care or medications while you are in Australia, as well as information about any relevant medical history or chronic conditions that will require ongoing treatment in Sydney, translated if possible.

Don’t forget to check your airline's maximum luggage allowance, to avoid paying excess charges. 

Prepare for the seasons

You’ve probably heard about Sydney’s beautiful beaches and warm weather, but don’t forget to pack some warm clothes, especially if you’re arriving in July which is winter. Sydney can be hot – but it can also get cold too!

Buying supplies in Australia

Don’t worry if you can’t fit everything into your suitcase – there are easily accessible, relatively cheap clothes, bedding, stationery and other supplies available across Sydney. You don't need to weigh down your luggage with too many toiletries or other items that you can purchase after you arrive.

Before you leave, have medical/dental check-ups and pack spare pairs of glasses or contact lenses.

Medication

To help ensure continuity of your health care in Australia:

1. Bring prescriptions and at least a month’s worth of medication, if possible.
2. Check with your doctor that you will be able to obtain the medications you require in Australia.
3. Bring a letter from your doctor explaining what your medications are and why you take them, and information about your medical history.
4. If you have an ongoing or chronic health condition, ask your doctor for a letter of referral to a health practitioner in Australia.
5. Ensure your vaccinations are up to date and bring copies of your vaccination records.

Have at least AUD$1500 in your bank account available for use on arrival in Sydney (plus approximately AUD$300 in cash).

You can exchange most currencies at the airport but you can do this before your arrival. Most businesses including taxis accept credit cards but there may be a surcharge.

It is important to make sure you will be able to afford your living costs in Sydney. 

The University offers a free airport shuttle service to central Sydney locations for international students (subject to availability).

Sydney’s public transport options include trains, buses, light rails (trams) and ferries.

Get an Opal card

You’ll need an adult Opal card to use the public transport network – you can buy one from the airport.

Stay updated

Use Google or Apple Maps to find the best routes for your destination.

Then download the TripView app for the latest timetables. Remember that some of Sydney’s train stations don’t have lifts (elevators) for your luggage and might be a long walk from your accommodation.

Taxis

Catching a taxi is more expensive than public transport, but they will be able to take you directly to your door and save you from carrying your luggage too far.

At the airport, taxi ranks are situated just outside the Arrivals lounge. Also consider catching one from outside the nearest train station to your accommodation to save you from walking.

Ride sharing

Ride sharing apps are popular in Sydney and can be used at the international airport.

Once you exit the building, follow signs to the yellow public pick-up area, as this is where your driver will meet you upon confirming through the app.