When you arrive at an Australian airport, you will first need to go through immigration and customs clearance. If you need help finding your way around, just ask the airline staff or one of the border officials in the arrivals area. A clearance officer will check your travel document and visa, and once cleared you will be able to collect your luggage to go through customs and quarantine clearance processes.
More information on what to expect when you arrive at the airport is available at the Department of Home Affairs website.
Getting to your new home
You should arrange accommodation before you arrive in Australia, even it is just for the first few days. Have your accommodation address written in English ready to show the taxi or hire car, or detailed directions if you are using public transport. If your institution is picking you up from the airport they will take you exactly where you need to go.
Orientation Week
Some institutions run an orientation week (also known as ‘O Week’) for new students. This is typically held at the start of the year and during the week; you will learn about your institution, take tours of facilities, and meet people who will also be studying at your institution. You can usually find more information about your institution’s orientation week on their website, such as a full schedule of activities.
If your institution has an ‘O Week’ it is important that you attend to learn how to get the most out of your institution and study experience.
Set up your Unique Student Identifier
If you are planning to study at university in Australia, attend TAFE or do any other nationally recognised training, you will need a Unique Student Identifier (USI). Without a USI, you will not be able to get your qualification or statement of attainment.
You can only create a USI after you have arrived in Australia and cleared customs using your non-Australian passport and Australian visa as forms of ID. Once you have both documents, you can create your USI online by following the step-by-step instructions on the website.
You should obtain your USI as soon as possible after arriving in Australia, so that you can provide it to your education or training provider.
For more information, visit usi.gov.au.
Seeking help
Remember, if you have any problems or questions once you leave the airport, call your institution’s international support staff. These details will be in your enrolment and orientation information.