Moving to Australia as an international student?

23 March, 2026 by Lyca Mobile
International Students in Australia
Students Arrive in Australia

Moving to Australia as an international student is an exciting milestone, but settling in can feel overwhelming at first. From opening a bank account to using public transport, finding part-time work, and staying in touch with family overseas, there is a lot to handle in a short time.  

This guide offers practical tips to help international students settle into life in Australia quicker and with confidence.  

1. Opening a Bank Account in Australia 

Opening an Australian bank account should be one of your first priorities after you arrive. Most major banks let international students open an account online before arriving and then verify their identity in person.  

Popular student-friendly banks include:  

Helpful tip (often overlooked):

Choose a debit card with no international transaction fees if your family will occasionally top up your account from overseas. This can save you hundreds of dollars each year in hidden charges.  

2. Understanding Public Transport in Australian Cities  

Australia’s major cities have reliable public transport systems, but each state operates differently.  

Sydney & NSW: Opal Card – https://www.opal.com.au  

Melbourne: Myki – https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au  

Brisbane & QLD: Go Card – https://translink.com.au  

Perth: SmartRider – https://www.transperth.wa.gov.au 

International students may be eligible for concession fares, depending on their visa type and institution.  

Local insight:

Peak-hour travel (7-9am and 4-6pm) is often crowded and can be mentally exhausting during exam periods. Many students adjust their schedules to travel during off-peak hours, reducing stress and fatigue. 

3. Making the Most of Student Discounts  

Australia offers a variety of student discounts on food, entertainment, fitness, and travel.  

Key platforms to check:  

UNiDAYS – https://www.myunidays.com  

Student Edge – https://studentedge.org/au  

ISIC (International Student Identity Card) – https://www.isic.org  

You’ll find deals on:  

  • Streaming services  
  • Gym memberships  
  • Clothing brands  
  • Cafés and restaurants  

Less searchable tip:

Many local cafés, independent gyms, and community events offer student discounts only in-store and not online. Asking politely with your student ID often unlocks savings not found on Google.  

4. Finding a Part-Time Job as an International Student  

International students in Australia can generally work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the academic term (check your current visa conditions).  

Useful job search platforms:  

Seek – https://www.seek.com.au 

Indeed – https://au.indeed.com 

Jora – https://au.jora.com 

Also check:  

  • University career portals  
  • On-campus noticeboards  
  • Student Facebook groups  

Smart preparation tip:  

Getting short certifications like RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) or Food Handling before job hunting can significantly improve your chances of landing hospitality and retail roles.  

5. Staying Connected with Family and Friends Overseas 

Staying connected is essential for practical life and emotional wellbeing. Choosing the right SIM plan early can make a big difference.  

Why International Students Choose Lyca Mobile Australia  

Lyca Mobile Australia is popular among international students because it offers:  

Lyca is especially useful for students who regularly call or message family overseas without relying solely on Wi-Fi.  

Explore plans here:  

https://www.lycamobile.com.au 

You can also check current offers and SIM options at:  

https://www.lycamobile.com.au/en/bundles/sim-only-plans/#best-value 

https://www.lycamobile.com.au/en/student/ 

Student tip:  

Many students use Wi-Fi on campus and at home and rely on mobile data mainly for maps, transport apps, and messaging. Choosing a flexible prepaid plan helps keep costs low.  

6. Building a Social and Support Network  

Settling into Australia is easier when you feel connected.  

Ways to build your network:  

  • Join university clubs and societies  
  • Attend orientation and welcome events  
  • Participate in community volunteering  

Volunteering platforms to explore:  

Volunteering Australia – https://www.volunteeringaustralia.org 

Seek Volunteer – https://www.volunteer.com.au 

Under-the-radar benefit:  

Volunteering often leads to informal job referrals and local references, something international students often struggle to obtain early on.  

7. Balancing Study, Work, and Wellbeing  

Australian universities offer free or low-cost student support services, including:  

  • Academic skills workshops  
  • Mental health counselling  
  • International student advisors  
     

Taking advantage of these services early can prevent burnout.  

Lifestyle insight:  

Many international students underestimate how much Australia’s outdoor lifestyle supports mental health. Even short walks, beach visits, or studying in parks can significantly improve focus and mood.  

Final Thoughts  

Settling into life in Australia as an international student takes time, but with the right information and support, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience. From managing finances and transport to finding work and staying connected with Lyca Mobile Australia, small early decisions can have a big long-term impact.  

For more student resources and mobile offers, visit:  

https://www.lycamobile.com.au