First Week in Melbourne: Checklist for International Students (2026) ?

Moving to Melbourne to study is an exciting milestone, but your first week can also feel overwhelming. Between finding your way around, setting up a phone, arranging transport, and preparing for university, there are several important things to organise.

This practical checklist will help international students settle into Melbourne in 2026, avoid common mistakes, and start student life with more confidence.

1. Complete These Essential Tasks After Arrival

Your first priority is to make sure you have somewhere safe to stay, a working phone, and access to your important documents.

Your first-week checklist

Arrival and documents

Keep your passport, visa details and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) secure

Save your accommodation address and emergency contacts

Confirm your accommodation booking and check-in arrangements

Keep digital copies of important documents in a secure location

Phone and money

Get an Australian SIM or activate an eligible eSIM

Compare Australian bank accounts and arrange account access

Carry a small amount of Australian dollars for immediate expenses

Create a weekly budget for rent, groceries, transport and study costs

University

Check your enrolment and class timetable

Register for orientation or O-Week

Find your campus and locate your classrooms

Check your student email and learning management system

Health and safety

Confirm your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) details

Save emergency number 000

Learn how to contact your university’s international student support team

Review your visa conditions and any work restrictions

The Australian Government’s Study Australia first-week guide also explains key arrival tasks, including setting up a phone and bank account, obtaining a Unique Student Identifier (USI) where required, and notifying your education provider of your residential address within seven days of arrival.

2. Get an Australian SIM Card and Internet Connection

A local mobile number makes it easier to contact your university, arrange accommodation, use transport apps, and receive verification codes.

You can choose a prepaid SIM, an eSIM if your phone supports it, or a SIM-only monthly plan. Before buying, check coverage around your accommodation and campus, data limits, international calling rates, and whether your phone is unlocked.

If you're staying in Melbourne's CBD, a mobile provider store such as Vodafone Melbourne Central can be a convenient place to ask about available plans. Compare prices online first rather than choosing the first plan offered.

3. Set Up Your Australian Bank Account

A local bank account can help you manage rent, everyday purchases, and future salary payments if you take up permitted employment.

During your first week:

• Compare account fees, card delivery arrangements, and international transfer costs.

• Check what identity and address documents your chosen bank requires.

• Set up secure mobile banking and transaction notifications.

• Keep enough accessible money for your immediate living expenses.

Some banks allow students to begin an application before arrival, but identity verification requirements vary. You generally do not need a Tax File Number (TFN) just to open a bank account. If you plan to work, check the Australian Taxation Office guidance on obtaining a TFN and providing it to your employer.

4. Learn How Melbourne Public Transport Works

Melbourne has an extensive network of trains, trams, and buses. Learning your route before classes begin can save time and help you avoid unnecessary transport costs.

• Understand myki: Check which ticketing option applies to your journey and whether a physical or digital myki is suitable for you.

• Check student concessions: Eligibility depends on your course, institution, and visa or enrolment circumstances. Some international students may qualify for discounted travel through the International Student Travel Pass.

• Practise your commute: Travel to campus before your first class so you know which stop to use and how long the journey takes.

Remember that the Free Tram Zone covers only part of central Melbourne. If you travel beyond its boundaries, the usual fare rules may apply.

5. Confirm Your Accommodation and Understand Your Rights

If you are staying in a student residence, homestay, private rental, or shared house, use your first week to make sure everything is in order.

• Confirm rent, bond, utility bills, and payment arrangements in writing.

• Photograph the condition of your room when you move in.

• Check whether Wi-Fi, bedding, kitchen equipment, and laundry facilities are included.

• Learn how to contact your landlord, property manager, or accommodation provider.

• Research your rights and responsibilities before signing a rental agreement.

Avoid sending money for a property you have not verified. Be especially careful if someone pressures you to pay a deposit immediately or refuses to provide a written agreement.

For free guidance and referrals, international students can visit the Study Melbourne Hub, located at 17 Hardware Lane in the CBD. It offers a central place to find student support and information about settling into life in Victoria.

6. Shop for Groceries and Everyday Essentials

Buying a few essentials at a supermarket is often cheaper than eating takeaway every day. Start with enough food and household items for several meals, then work out what you need as you settle in.

For budget-conscious shopping in central Melbourne, consider:

• ALDI — a useful option for everyday groceries and pantry staples.

• KT MART — useful for Asian groceries, familiar ingredients, and imported food items.

• Kmart Melbourne CBD — handy for affordable bedding, kitchenware, and basic household items.

Store stock and prices vary, so compare options and check current opening hours before travelling.

Money-saving tip: Cook simple meals at home, plan your shopping list, compare unit prices, and share bulk essentials with housemates if practical.

7. Attend Orientation Week and Meet Other Students

Orientation, often called O-Week, is one of the most useful parts of your first week. It helps you understand university systems and meet people before regular classes become busy.

Make time to:

• Attend international student welcome sessions.

• Join a campus tour and learn where the library, student services, and study spaces are.

• Activate your student account and check the learning management system.

• Join clubs related to your interests, culture, hobbies, or course.

• Ask about academic support, counselling, careers advice, and student discounts.

8. Understand Your Student Visa and Work Conditions

If you intend to work part-time while studying, understand your visa conditions before accepting a job.

• Learn the work-hour limits and when they apply to your visa.

• Read the Fair Work Ombudsman’s guidance on minimum pay, payslips, and workplace rights.

• Keep your employment records and never pay someone who promises a guaranteed job or visa outcome.

Do not rely on advice from social media alone. Your visa conditions and official government guidance are the best sources for your individual circumstances.

9. Explore Melbourne Without Spending Much

Once the essential tasks are complete, take some time to enjoy your new city. You don't need to spend much to begin exploring.

State Library Victoria

Explore its impressive reading room, public spaces, and exhibitions. It's also a useful place to study.

Royal Botanic Gardens

Take a walk, relax outdoors, or bring a picnic when the weather is suitable.

Melbourne's laneways

Discover street art, cafés, and historic city streets on a self-guided walk.