Australia Travel

Before You Leave

A student will require their visa and enrollment confirmation before considering leaving the country. Once these two very important documents arrive it is time for the student to start arranging their trip to Australia and their stay.

Packing

When packing it is important to remember that most airlines only allow 20 kilograms of luggage per person, if the person exceeds this limit they will be charged.

Australia has very strict quarantine and customs laws, while it may seem like a good idea at the time to pack food from home most of these products will not be allowed in Australia. Food items not allowed in Australia include fresh, dried and pre-packaged foods.

When packing any electronic equipment remember that Australia has different adaptors and electricity points to other countries. So if bringing a mobile phone be sure to bring a battery charger that can be used in Australia.

Depending on what part of Australia the student is intending on staying in as well as what time of year, the student will need to think about what clothing to pack. If travelling to Queensland, Northern Territory or Western Australia, they will require lighter clothing. As it is only cold during 2 - 3 months of the year being June, July and August it would be silly to pack mostly winter clothing. South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory and Tasmania have a cooler climate with the cold winter temperatures extending into Autumn and Spring. If visiting one of these states it is ideal to bring warmer clothing. Remember Australia is in the Southern Hemisphere so the seasons are different to that of the Northern Hemisphere.

Ensure that all important travel documents are packed or with you at the time of departure. This includes Visa, Passport, Travellers cheque receipts, Flight tickets, Insurance documents, Credit cards, ATM card as well as Confirmation of enrollment. Students will require the original copies of these documents as well as a certified photo copy.

Insurance

Any student visa holder entering Australia must have Overseas Student Health Cover, this will pay for any medical expenses as well as doctors visits. To be on the safe side it is a good idea to purchase travellers insurance, in case of any problems such as cancelled flights, lost luggage or wallets. Cases like these are unlikely but it is always better to be safe then sorry.

Money

It is important to have enough money on you for the first few days. Carrying large amounts of cash is not a safe option, small amounts is fine. As well as this having access to AU $1500-3000 in travellers cheques which are in your name will help to settle in quickly. If the student is carrying more then AU $10,000 on them this must be declared to customs officials when entering Australia.

Short Term Accommodation

If the student has been unable to organise long term permanent accommodation before their arrival, then their educational provider can help to give them contact details of short term accommodation options in the areas. Such as hostels, hotels or apartments.