One of the most individual and iconic countries in the world, Australia is also home to some of the world’s leading educational institutions. With a warm climate, over 50,000 kilometres of coastline and a reputation for being one of the most friendly countries worldwide, it's easy to see why it's a popular destination for international students.
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It is a good idea to have onward travel to your institution or accommodation arranged before departing for Australia. You should carry the address and phone number of your accommodation in your hand luggage to make it easier to ask for directions or to get a taxi. Australia is a large country, but there are many airports and good transport links in most areas. You should be aware that Australia has very strict controls on what items can be brought into the country. To find out more about this, visit www.customs.gov.au
There are a large number of airports in Australia, both international and domestic. Here is a guide to the top five major international cities (all prices are in $AU):
Sydney
Arriving at Sydney Airport:
Also known as Kingsford-Smith, Sydney Airport is one of the world’s oldest airports, and is Australia’s busiest, with traffic incoming and outgoing to most major destinations in the rest of the world.
Getting to your accommodation:
To find out more, visit www.sydneyairport.com.au
Public Transport in Sydney
Sydney is serviced by buses, trains, ferries and trams. Inner-city locations have the best transport links, and you will benefit from living within walking distance of your classes, as timetables can sometimes be unreliable (it is worth checking train lines on the weekends in case of maintenance).
International students are usually not eligible for student concessions on public transport in Sydney, but check with your institution to find out whether you’re eligible.
The website for planning bus, train, tram (known as the Light Rail) and ferry travel is www.131500.info which also gives information about fares, service disruptions and delays.
Melbourne
Getting to your accommodation:
To find out more, visit www.melbourneairport.com.au
Public transport in Melbourne
Melbourne has a good public transport system, with the city serviced by trams, trains and buses. The centre of the city is set out in an easy-to-navigate grid structure, making it easy to walk around.Visit www.ptv.vic.gov.au to plan your journey.
Overseas full-fee paying students are not eligible for a student concession on public transport, but exchange students and students with an Australian Development Scholarship are eligible with a letter from their institution.
When crossing the street, listen out for the sound of the tram bell – it’s a signal to watch out for the approach of a tram!
Brisbane
Getting to your accommodation:
To find out more, visit www.bne.com.au
Public transport in Brisbane
Brisbane is serviced by bus, train and ferry. You can purchase a go card, which can be used on all forms on public transport, and is 30% cheaper than a single-use ticket. International students are able to get student concession rates in Brisbane, but exchange students are not. You can plan journeys and get fare information at www.translink.com.au
Perth
Getting to your accommodation:
To find out more, visit www.perthairport.com.au
Public transport in Perth
International students receive a West Australian government-sponsored 40% discount on all public transport. Perth is serviced by train, bus and ferry links. The website for planning public transport is www.transperth.wa.gov.au
Click here for information about travelling to and from each institution in Perth, and getting your Tertiary SmartRider travelcard.
Adelaide
Getting to your accommodation:
To find out more, visit www.adelaideairport.com.au
Public transport in Adelaide
Adelaide is serviced by trains, buses and trams which will take you all over the city. There are a number of free services which are very useful for getting around the city centre.
Visit the Passenger Transport Information Centre or www.adelaidemetro.com.au to find out about timetables, routes and fares. Study Adelaide has useful information for international students.
Safety tips
Useful travel links
Australian Customs and Border Protection Service
www.customs.gov.au
Australian Customs and Border Protection Service - PDF Guide for Travellers
www.customs.gov.au/webdata/resources/files/GuideForTravellers.pdf
Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service
www.aqis.gov.au
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)
Budget travel in Australia
www.virginaustralia.com
Last updated: 16 April 2012
