Moving to Australia?
A practical checklist from RUAA Australia for RU alumni arriving in Australia for work, study or family, put together by alumni who made the same move.
Welcome to the land down under! Our newcomer guide covers TFN and Medicare, renting your first place, public transport cards in each city, and the local job market. The chapter pairs every newcomer with an alumni buddy in their city.
Your arrival checklist
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Before you fly
Keep your passport, visa, offer letter and academic certificates in your hand luggage, with scanned copies in the cloud. Register with RUAA Australia before you land so we can welcome you.
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Your first week: ID and tax
Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) online, and check whether you are eligible for Medicare or need private cover (OSHC/OVHC).
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Money and a phone
Open an Australian bank account; most can be opened online before you land and activated in a branch. Get a local SIM or eSIM early, because many services need a local number.
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Find a place to live
Use trusted sites, never pay a deposit before viewing (in person or by video call) and read your tenancy agreement carefully. Ask alumni which areas suit your budget and commute.
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Healthcare
Register with a local GP clinic and keep your health cover card with you.
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Getting around
Buy the city transit card: Opal (Sydney), Myki (Melbourne), go card (Brisbane), SmartRider (Perth).
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Work and study
Tailor your resume to Australian style, and check skills assessment rules for your profession.
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Connect with alumni
Come to a chapter event, join a members' meeting and search the alumni directory for RU alumni in your city. We can pair you with an alumni buddy.
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Stay safe
Save the local emergency number and the contact details of the nearest United Kingdom embassy or high commission. Keep your family informed of your address.
This guide is general advice from fellow alumni, not legal or immigration advice. Always check the latest official government guidance for your situation.