Guide
What to Do After Landing in Australia: Your 72-Hour Survival Guide
Congratulations, you've landed in Australia! The first 72 hours are exciting but critical for a smooth settlement. This comprehensive guide breaks down your immediate priorities, from clearing immigration and customs to connecting your phone and reaching your accommodation, ensuring you move confidently from the airport to your new home.
- Valid Passport and Visa Grant Letter: Original documents and a digital/printed copy of your visa grant notice.
- Completed Incoming Passenger Card (IPC): Handed out on your flight (must be completed in English).
- AU$1,500 – AU$2,000 (Access to Cash/Card): Sufficient funds for immediate expenses (transport, food, SIM card).
- Prescription Medication and Doctor’s Letter: If carrying prescription drugs (must be declared).
- Adapter/Converter: For Australian power outlets (Type I socket).
🗺️Your First 72 Hours
This section is divided into three key phases: Day 1 (Arrival), Day 2 (Setup), and Day 3 (Administration).
Phase 1: Day 1 – Airport to Accommodation (Hours 1-12)
AirportToAccommodation
Clear Immigration (Border Force)
Action: Present your passport and completed Incoming Passenger Card (IPC).
Procedure: You will pass through an initial passport check. Most eligible passport holders (including many migrants) can use the automated SmartGate/ePassport Kiosk system. Follow the on-screen prompts. Non-eligible passengers or those with issues must proceed to an Assisted Desk.
Baggage Claim & Biosecurity
Action: Collect your luggage and proceed to the Biosecurity/Customs zone.
Critical: Australia has extremely strict biosecurity laws. Truthfully declare ALL items listed on your IPC, especially food, plant materials, animal products, and currency over AU$10,000. Use the designated amnesty bins to dispose of undeclared items (e.g., in-flight snacks, fresh fruit) before reaching the Biosecurity desk. Failure to declare can result in significant fines (up to AU$60,000) or visa cancellation.
Get Connected (Essential)
Action: Purchase an Australian SIM card or activate your eSIM.
Method: Visit carrier stores/kiosks (Telstra, Optus, Vodafone) in the arrivals hall.
Recommendation: Choose a prepaid plan for the first month. You need your passport for ID verification to activate the number. If your phone supports eSIM, activation is instant and often cheaper, but you'll need airport Wi-Fi to download the profile.
Final Exit & Transport
Action: Follow signs to the arrival hall/exit, and locate your pre-booked transport.
Options:Pre-Booked Airport Shuttle/Transfer (recommended if you have lots of luggage), Taxi/Rideshare (available outside the terminal), or Airport Train/Bus (cheapest option, but check route/luggage compatibility). Confirm the time and address with your accommodation host/hotel.
Check-In and Rest
Action: Arrive at your temporary accommodation and check in.
Priority: Combat jet lag. Use the first few hours to unpack essentials, notify family/friends you've arrived, and get a good rest. Drink plenty of water.
Phase 2: Day 2 – Localisation & Communication (Hours 13-48)
Localization&Communication
Bank Account Activation
Action: Visit your pre-chosen bank branch to finalize account activation.
If Pre-opened: If you opened an account from overseas (recommended), you must visit a local branch with your passport and visa grant letter to verify your ID and collect your debit card.
If Not Opened: Start the online application process for an everyday account (Westpac, CommBank, NAB, ANZ are major options). You’ll need this account for all future transactions, including salary.
Purchase Local Essentials
Action: Visit a major supermarket (Woolworths/Coles) or any convenience store.
Purpose: Stock up on food, toiletries, basic cleaning supplies, and a power adapter/extension cord if you haven't already. This is a good way to start familiarizing yourself with Australian pricing and products.
Local Area Exploration
Action: Spend 1-2 hours walking around your immediate neighbourhood.
Focus: Locate the nearest bus/train stop, the nearest supermarket, the nearest GP (Doctor) clinic, and any local cafes. This builds familiarity and reduces the anxiety of navigating an emergency.
Set Up Transport
Action: Purchase a local travel card (e.g., Opal in Sydney, Myki in Melbourne, Go Card in Brisbane).
Note: In most major Australian cities, you can now tap a credit/debit card directly on the public transport reader. However, purchasing a dedicated travel card might offer better fare caps or be necessary in certain regions.
Phase 3: Day 3 – Administrative Launchpad (Hours 49-72)
Administrative_Launchpad
Apply for Your Tax File Number (TFN)
Action: Apply online via the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) website.
CRITICAL: A TFN is required to work in Australia and prevents you from paying the highest possible tax rate (emergency tax) on your income.
Process: Complete the online form on the ATO site. You will need your passport, a postal address in Australia, and your arrival date. The TFN will be mailed to your address within 28 days.
Enrol for Medicare (If Eligible)
Action: Visit your nearest Service Australia Centre or Medicare office.
Eligibility: Permanent residents, citizens of reciprocal healthcare agreement countries (e.g., UK, NZ), and certain visa holders are eligible.
Documents: Bring your passport, visa grant letter, and the Medicare enrolment form (you can fill this out in advance). You will receive an interim Medicare card number immediately for use, and the physical card will be mailed.
Document Digitization
Action: Scan/photograph all important documents and save them securely (e.g., encrypted cloud folder).
Documents to Secure: Passport main page, Visa Grant Notice, Flight Tickets, OSHC/Health Insurance policy, Bank account details, and your new SIM card number. Keep originals in a safe place.
Congratulations, you've completed your first 72 hours! Now it's time to build your foundation.
Do I need to have my visa stamped in my passport?
No. Australia uses an electronic visa system. Your visa is digitally linked to your passport number. While you can ask a Border Force officer for a stamp, it is not required for entry or residence.
How much Australian cash should I bring?
AU$200–$300 cash is enough for immediate incidentals (e.g., airport coffee, a small taxi fare). All major airports, taxis, and stores accept international credit/debit cards.
Can I use my foreign driver's license?
Generally, yes, for your first few months (usually up to 3-6 months, depending on the state) as long as it is current, and either in English or accompanied by an official English translation/International Driving Permit (IDP). Check your state's road authority rules immediately.
Is there free Wi-Fi at the airport?
Yes, all major Australian international airports offer free public Wi-Fi, which is crucial for activating your eSIM or coordinating transport.
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