Making the move
Coming to university in Australia can be both exciting and daunting, so we've put together some information to help you make the transition smoothly.
Before your flight
- Organise your student visa to travel to Australia.
- Organise your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). All student visa holders are required to have OSHC health insurance during their period of intended stay in Australia.
- Prepare the necessary documents and make sure you are able to access them easily upon arrival.
Organise accommodation
Many Australian cities including Sydney have been experiencing a housing crisis with rooms and properties for rent being in short supply. This might make it harder for commencing students to find suitable accommodation.
We recommend you start looking into housing options early, and if possible secure a place to stay prior to your arrival.
If you need general, non-urgent advice including where to find accommodation and your responsibilities, rights and the laws relating to renting and accommodation in Australia, you can check out MQ Accommodation or reach out to the team at:
- 15 -17 Gymnasium Road, Macquarie University, NSW 2109 Australia
- T: +61 (2) 9850 7965
- E: housing@mq.edu.au
Learn about what you can and cannot bring into Australia
Australia is known for its strict customs and biosecurity laws. Some day-to-day items you often take with you during other travel overseas, may be prohibited and incur a penalty if you try to bring it into Australia.
If you are unsure, check Australian Border Force Website on what you can and cannot bring into the country.
Organise transport/pickup from the airport
Macquarie University offers free Airport Pickup for new students travelling to Macquarie Park district, or at discounted price if you live outside of Macquarie Park district. For more information check out our Airport Shuttle Service website.
Sydney has an extensive public transport system. You can travel to most places using our metros, trains, trams, buses & ferries. To plan your trip on public transport, you can use Trip Planner or Google Maps.
To pay for public transport you can simply tap on and off with a credit card when getting on and off public transport. Another popular option is to obtain an Opal card that you can use to load money in and tap on/off as you go. Opal cards are available from ticket windows at the Airport Station (both domestic & international) and there is no cost difference to the fare.
We recommend you carry about AU$300 in cash or a valid credit/debit card for unexpected or direct expenses. You can find currency exchange shops at the airport and shopping centres, or you can change foreign currency at any Australian bank.
Arriving at Sydney Airport
On your arrival at Sydney airport, have the following documents ready:
- passport
- letter of offer and eCOE
- visa documentation
- OSHC certification
- flight details
- accommodation address
- emergency contact details (000)
Incoming Passenger Card
On your flight to Australia, you will be given an Incoming Passenger Card - a legal document you are required to complete. Apart from your personal details, you must declare if you are bringing any restricted or prohibited goods into Australia.
Your bag (both carry-on and checked-in) may be inspected by a Customs Officer. If you are found to carry item(s) without declaring, you may be fined and your item may be confiscated. You could even risk having your visa cancelled.
It is important that you read and complete this form carefully and truthfully - it's best to tick "Yes" if you are unsure.
International Student Welcome Desk
If you arrive at Sydney Airport between 7:30 am to 1:30 pm Monday to Friday, come and say Hi to StudyNSW Airport Welcome Desk. The desk is staffed by volunteers who will welcome you to Sydney and answer any questions you may have. The desk is located in the International Arrivals Hall.