Introduction:
Congratulations! You've received your Australian student visa. Now, you're probably thinking, "What next?" Perhaps you're considering who will guide you in Australia—your parents, a relative, or a friend who can help you get settled. You start making calls, reaching out to friends, telling them about your plans, hoping they'll sort things out for you.
In this blog post, I'll explain how you don’t need to rely on anyone for your initial setup. Instead, you can take control and settle yourself in Australia.
1. Get Your Indian Driver’s License**
Before arriving in Australia, ensure you have an Indian driver’s license. It's important to learn driving properly in India because driving is essential for settling in Australia. You’ll need a valid license, not a makeshift one. Driving will be a significant asset, and without it, your transition will be challenging.
2. Finding Accommodation
After you arrive, you’ll need to find a place to stay. Here's how:
- Head to your university’s address, where you will study.
- Go to Facebook Marketplace and set the location around your university.
- Search for "room for rent." After finding a suitable option, reach out to the person and finalize the deal. Tell them your arrival date, and you'll have a place to stay as soon as you land.
3. Book Your Flight and Arrive in Australia
Once your accommodation is settled, book your flight. When you arrive at the airport, make sure you have the address of your accommodation. Give the address to the taxi driver, and they'll drop you off at your new home.
**Tip:** Bring along some cash, around $2,000–$3,000 AUD, if possible. Don’t worry about kitchen utensils or clothes—you can buy those cheaply once you arrive.
4. Get a SIM Card
Once you’ve settled into your room, you’ll need to get a SIM card. You can easily purchase one from any nearby store. Many options offer cheap pre-paid plans, or you can look into eSIMs online.
5. Open a Bank Account
Next, you’ll need to open a bank account. Find the nearest bank branch and open your account online by filling out the necessary details. Once your account is activated, deposit your cash. You'll also receive a digital bank card.
6. Get a Public Transport Pass
Download a bus or public transport app to help you navigate to your university. When you go to university, complete your orientation and provide all the required details.
7. Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN)
Once you have everything set, avoid jumping straight into any job. Many cash jobs in restaurants and other sectors might trap you, preventing you from fully focusing on your studies. Instead, apply for a **Tax File Number (TFN)** online, which is essential for getting a legal job in Australia.
8. Apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN)
In addition to the TFN, applying for an **Australian Business Number (ABN)** is highly recommended, especially if you plan to do freelance or contract work, like food delivery (UberEats, DoorDash) or other small business-related activities. Having an ABN allows you to work as a contractor and gives you more flexibility in terms of job opportunities. You can apply for an ABN online, and it’s free of charge.
9. Rent a Car
If you can’t afford a car initially, don’t worry. You can rent a car search on facebook marketplace for uber eats car rental and you will get car for $120 To $150 a week and start by working for services like UberEats or DoorDash. These flexible jobs allow you to manage your university schedule while earning income. Unlike fixed restaurant jobs, these roles offer more freedom, helping you learn how to navigate Australian roads and improve your communication skills.
10. Getting an Australian Driver’s License
To truly unlock job opportunities, get an Australian driver’s license. Start by taking lessons from a local driving school and getting trained on how to drive in Australia. Once you pass the test and receive your license, many doors will open for you.
11. Look for Professional Jobs
When you're ready, look for professional jobs by creating profiles on popular websites like Seek.com and Gumtree. You can easily apply for jobs that fit your skills and get hired.
12. Focus on Your Studies
Always remember the primary reason you're in Australia: your studies. Check the conditions of your offer letter and visa, and stay updated with any changes in immigration rules. If necessary, consult with a migration agent for advice on the best state to apply for Permanent Residency (PR). Regional states in Australia often have easier PR pathways than larger ones like Queensland.
13. Avoid Unnecessary Advice
Lastly, avoid relying on the advice of relatives or friends too much. You don’t need to become overly dependent on them for help. Sometimes, people may not want you to progress as fast as they have, or they may give you the wrong advice out of jealousy. Instead, focus on building your own path and maintaining good relationships with everyone.
Conclusion:
By following these steps, you can easily settle in Australia without unnecessary complications. Build your life step by step, and soon you'll find yourself thriving. Best of luck!