5 things I wish I knew before moving to Australia

I am Jannatul, a PhD student at Federation University who arrived in Australia in 2022. Every day, I learn new skills that perfectly fit me into the new country and culture. So here, I share five things that are useful if you come to Australia for the first time:

1. No need to carry extra things in your luggage: In Australia, you will find everything for every culture. For me, there are lots of shops for asian groceries. There are many Chinese shops and K-mart where you will get everything at a reasonable price. I also love to buy second-hand stuff from donation shops (e.g., Salvation Army, St Vincent’s). Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree are also very useful things for second-hand furniture.
2. Renting a home near bus stop: It will always give you extra benefit to reach every place on time. Also, try to rent a furnished home where all utility bills are included. Federation University accommodation is a blessing for me because they are fully furnished and bills are included! You may also be eligible for an Accommodation Support Scholarship, which gives you $4000 to live on Campus.
3. Installing some useful apps: Before buying a car, public transport is a blessing for every student. Install PTV (if you are in Melbourne) and if you are eligible, get a concession card. If you are a frequent traveller, go for the Myki pass, which is cheaper. Coles and Woolworths are grocery stores and they also deliver too - if you carefully choose the delivery date, you’ll find only a $2 delivery fee! This saves a lot of time. Groupon is an app that gives you discounts for buying various products (sometimes more than 70% or 80%). Muslim Pro - if you are Muslim, this app gives you time for your prayer. Aussie Forex - for sending money to your home country. Some other important apps are Uber, Bupa, 13 Cabs, and ShopFully.
4. Learn to drive: It is a lifelong skill. If you have international driving license, you will be benefit from this. You also get priority for part time work, if you have car in Australia and can do lots of part time independent jobs such as Uber Eats, or Doordash.
5. Asking for help in crisis: When you first move to a new country, you may experience a crisis. However, there is no need to feel alone here. Your university will always supports you mentally and financially. The International Student Advisory team are fantastic. Alternatively, you can seek assistance from many charity organizations. Let them know what problems you are having right now.

Lifeline offers crisis support. Call 13 11 14

Beyond Blue offers assistance with depression and anxiety. Call 1300 224 636

Nurse On Call provides expert health advice from a nurse. Call 1300 606 024

If immediate assistance is required, dial emergency on 000 for police, fire or ambulance.