Arriving in Australia is exciting — and a little overwhelming. The questions start piling up fast:
How do I get around? How do I stay connected? Where do I open a bank account? What even is a TFN?
At Career Australia, we work closely with students and skilled migrants every day, so we know exactly what you need in your first week. This 2026 guide walks you through the essential steps to help you settle in smoothly and confidently.
1. Get Your Public Transport Travel Card
Australia’s major cities operate modern, reliable transport networks including buses, trains, ferries and trams. Each state uses its own travel card and payment system, and most now support tap‑and‑go mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Wallet.
2026 Travel Card Systems by State:
- NSW (Sydney) → Opal Card
https://transportnsw.info/tickets-opal - VIC (Melbourne) → myki
https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/tickets/myki/ - QLD (Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast) → go card
https://translink.com.au/tickets-and-fares/go-card - SA (Adelaide) → metroCARD / MetroCARD Plus (2025 update)
https://adelaidemetro.com.au/Tickets-Fares/metroCARD - WA (Perth) → SmartRider
https://www.transperth.wa.gov.au/SmartRider/ - ACT (Canberra) → MyWay+ (launched 2024)
https://www.transport.act.gov.au/tickets-and-myway - NT (Darwin) → Tap-and-Ride ticketing
https://nt.gov.au/driving/public-transport-cycling/public-buses/fares - TAS (Hobart) → Greencard
https://www.transport.tas.gov.au/passenger/passengers/public_transport_timetables_and_maps
2026 Update:
- Most states offer digital cards, meaning you can store them in your phone wallet.
- International students in SA and VIC still have access to discounted student fares.
2. Buy an Australian SIM Card (2026 Plans Are Cheaper & Faster)
To open a bank account, receive SMS verifications, apply for jobs, or simply message family back home, you’ll need an Australian mobile number.
Major Mobile Providers in 2026
- Telstra
- Optus
- Vodafone (TPG Telecom)
- Felix Mobile
- Amaysim
- Boost Mobile (popular with students)
Typical Costs in 2026
- Prepaid plans start from $25–$35 per month.
- Most include unlimited texts/calls and large data allowances (40–80GB).
Important:
Bring your passport — telecom providers must verify your identity.
3. Open an Australian Bank Account
Nearly all major Australian banks offer fee‑free student accounts, and you can usually open one online before you arrive.
Major Banks Used by International Students:
- Commonwealth Bank (CBA)
- ANZ
- Westpac
- NAB
- ING (online only)
2026 Banking Updates:
- Most banks support instant online ID verification upon arrival.
- Digital wallets (Apple Pay, Google Wallet, Samsung Pay) are active the same day.
To activate your new account, you’ll usually need to take these documents to a branch:
- Passport
- Visa grant notice
- Australian address (temporary or permanent)
4. Set Up Your Superannuation Account (Super)
Superannuation is your long‑term retirement savings in Australia. Every employer must contribute a minimum of 11% (2026 rate) of your wage into your nominated super fund.
Key Points for 2026:
- If you don’t choose a fund, your employer will assign you a stapled super fund, linked to your TFN, to reduce duplicate accounts.
- You should keep one super account to avoid paying multiple fees.
Popular Student-Friendly Super Funds:
- AustralianSuper
- Hostplus
- REST
- Cbus
- Aware Super
More info from ATO:
https://www.ato.gov.au/Individuals/Super/
When can you access your Super?
Only when you:
- permanently leave Australia, and
- your temporary visa has expired (Departing Australia Superannuation Payment – DASP).
5. Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN)
A TFN is essential for working in Australia. Without one, you’ll pay higher tax rates, and employers may not hire you.
As of 2026:
- The application is completely online.
- Processing usually takes up to 28 days, and the TFN is sent via post.
Apply here:
https://iar.ato.gov.au/IARWeb/default.aspx?pid=4&sid=1&outcome=1
Security Tip:
Only share your TFN with:
- your employer
- your accountant
- the ATO
- your bank (sometimes required for interest reporting)
Never share your TFN with friends, unfamiliar websites, or companies you don’t trust.
6. Activate Your OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover)OSHC is compulsory for students on a Student Visa (Subclass 500).
If you purchased your OSHC overseas:
- Log in to your insurer’s online portal.
- Enter your arrival date.
- Update your Australian residential address.
- Request your health insurance card.
Common OSHC providers in 2026:
- Bupa
- Allianz Care
- Medibank
- nib
- ahm
Most provide digital membership cards immediately.
Welcome to Australia — You’ve Got This!
Moving to a new country is life-changing, and the first week can feel like a whirlwind. But once you complete these essential steps, you’ll be ready to explore, study, work and build your future in Australia.
If you need personalised settlement support, job guidance, or career counselling, Career Australia is here to help you thrive from day one.
