Aussie Guide for Indian Students

1. Is it cheaper to buy Australian dollars (AUD) in India or convert my Indian Rupees (INR) after landing?

It's often better to carry a small amount of AUD from India for initial expenses and then transfer the bulk of your funds electronically once your Australian bank account is active. Comparing forex rates from Indian banks and services like Wise or Remitly will help you find the cheapest transfer method. Join over 60 million users who love Revolut. Sign up Here.

4. Can I pack homemade spices and food items in my luggage? What are the strict rules?

Australia has very strict biosecurity laws, so you must declare all food, plant material, and animal products on your Incoming Passenger Card. Commercially packaged, shelf-stable spices are usually allowed, but homemade items are risky and may be confiscated to protect Australia’s agriculture. Source: Australian Border Force

5. What's the most cost-effective way to book my first flight to Australia?

Book your flight well in advance, and use flight comparison websites like Skyscanner or Google Flights to compare prices across different airlines. Flying during the off-season (avoiding December-January and June-July) can also significantly reduce the cost of your ticket. Source: Skyscanner

6. Can I pay my university fees in instalments instead of one lump sum?

Most Australian universities offer payment plans that allow you to pay your tuition fees in several instalments throughout the semester. You should check your university’s student finance or international student support page for specific details on how to set one up. Source: University of Sydney (Example)

7. Where can I find second-hand textbooks for my course to save money?

Check university-specific Facebook groups, student guild websites, and notice boards on campus for students selling used textbooks. Websites like Zookal or Student VIP are also popular online marketplaces for affordable second-hand academic books. Source: StudentVIP

8. Are there any free tutoring or academic support services offered by universities?

Yes, nearly all universities provide free academic support, including writing workshops, study skills sessions, and sometimes peer-assisted tutoring. These services are invaluable for understanding Australian academic standards and are usually found on the university's 'student services' or 'learning hub' website. Source: Study Melbourne

9. How do I apply for university scholarships specifically for Indian students after I've already started my course?

Many universities have scholarships that become available to current students based on academic performance in their first semester or year. Regularly check your university's scholarships webpage, as new opportunities are posted throughout the year and are often targeted at students from specific countries. Source: Study in Australia Scholarships

10. What's a "census date" and why is it critically important for my fees?

The census date is the last day you can withdraw from a subject or your entire course without being financially liable for the fees. If you withdraw after this date, you will still have to pay the full amount for that semester, so it is a crucial deadline to be aware of. Source: StudyAssist

11. What is the cheapest type of accommodation: on-campus, a share house, or a homestay?

Renting a room in a private share house off-campus is typically the most budget-friendly option, especially in suburbs further from the city centre. While on-campus accommodation is convenient, it is often more expensive, and homestays can vary widely in price. Source: Flatmates.com.au

12. How much bond (security deposit) do I typically have to pay, and how do I make sure I get it back?

A rental bond is usually equivalent to four weeks' rent, and it must be legally lodged with the relevant state authority, not held by the landlord directly. To get it back, ensure you complete a detailed property condition report upon moving in and leave the property clean and undamaged when you move out. Source: Tenants' Union NSW (Example)

13. Which websites are best for finding cheap shared accommodation, avoiding scams?

Flatmates.com.au and Flatmate Finders are popular and generally reliable for finding shared housing. To avoid scams, never transfer bond money before you have physically inspected the property and met the housemates or landlord in person. Source: Scamwatch

14. What basic furniture should I look for in a furnished room to avoid extra costs?

A basic furnished room should ideally include a bed with a mattress, a desk, a chair, and some storage like a wardrobe or chest of drawers. This will save you the significant initial expense of buying your own furniture. Source: Insider Guides

15. Is it cheaper to live in the suburbs and commute, or pay more to live close to the city/uni?

Living in the suburbs and commuting is almost always cheaper in terms of rent, but you must factor in the cost and time of public transport. Calculate the weekly cost of a transport pass against the weekly rent savings to see if it makes financial sense for you. Source: PTV Victoria (Example Fare Calculator)

16. How can I check if a landlord or rental provider is legitimate?

Ask for a formal rental agreement (lease) and ensure the bond lodgement forms are from the official state residential tenancies authority. A legitimate landlord will provide proper documentation and will not pressure you for cash payments without receipts. Source: Consumer Affairs Victoria (Example)

17. What do utility bills (water, electricity, gas) typically cost per month in a shared house?

Utility costs can vary greatly depending on usage, but you can budget approximately $30-$60 per person per month in a shared house. Some rental listings include certain bills in the weekly rent, which can make budgeting easier. Source: Finder.com.au

18. Which Australian bank offers student accounts with zero monthly fees?

All of the "Big Four" banks in Australia (Commonwealth Bank, Westpac, ANZ, NAB) offer specific student bank accounts that have no monthly account-keeping fees. It's best to compare their features online, but you can easily find a fee-free option. Source: Commonwealth Bank

19. How can I open an Australian bank account from India before I arrive?

Several major Australian banks, like Commonwealth Bank and ANZ, allow international students to begin the account opening process online up to three months before arriving. You will need to complete the final identity verification step in person at a branch once you land in Australia. Source: Finder.com.au

20. What is the cheapest way to transfer money from my Indian bank account to my Australian one?

Online remittance services like Wise (formerly TransferWise) or Remitly are generally much cheaper than traditional bank wire transfers due to better exchange rates and lower fees. Always compare the final amount you will receive in AUD before making a transfer. Source: Wise

21. What is a Tax File Number (TFN) and do I need one even before I start working?

A TFN is your personal reference number for the Australian tax system, and you need to apply for one as soon as you arrive if you plan to work. You can apply for free on the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) website once you are in Australia with a valid visa. Source: Australian Taxation Office (ATO)

22. Are there any student discounts I can get with my university ID card?

Yes, your student ID is a key to many discounts on public transport, at cinemas, retail stores, and even some restaurants. Websites and apps like UNiDAYS and Student Edge compile these discounts, making it easy to save money. Source: UNiDAYS

23. My OSHC is basic. What common medical services are *not* covered that I might have to pay for?

Standard Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) generally does not cover dental, optical (glasses), or physiotherapy services. If you require these services, you will have to pay the full cost out of pocket unless you purchase extra insurance. Source: PrivateHealth.gov.au

24. How do I find a doctor (GP) that "bulk bills" so I don't have to pay upfront?

Bulk billing means the doctor bills your insurance provider directly, so you have no out-of-pocket expense for the appointment. Use websites like Healthdirect or HotDoc to search for "bulk billing GPs" in your local area. Source: Healthdirect

25. Can I use my OSHC for dental or eye check-ups?

No, standard OSHC policies do not cover routine dental or optical services. Some providers offer more expensive 'extras' cover that you can purchase separately if you anticipate needing these services. Source: OSHC Australia

26. What happens if I have a medical emergency? Where do I go and what will it cost?

In a medical emergency, you should go to the emergency department of the nearest public hospital or call Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance. Your OSHC will cover treatment in a public hospital, but it may not cover the full cost of the ambulance service depending on your state and policy. Source: Study in Australia

27. How do I get a public transport concession card (like Opal, Myki, Go Card) for student discounts?

First, check if your university is a participating institution in your state's concession scheme. If so, you can typically apply online through the relevant transport authority's website (e.g., Transport for NSW, Public Transport Victoria) after enrolling in your course. Source: Transport for NSW (Example)

28. Is it cheaper to use public transport daily or buy a second-hand bicycle for short distances?

For short distances (under 5km), a second-hand bicycle is often a cheaper and healthier long-term option, saving you daily transport fares. You can find used bikes on platforms like Gumtree or Facebook Marketplace for a one-time cost. Source: Facebook Marketplace

29. Are there free shuttle buses provided by the university from nearby train stations or suburbs?

Many large universities operate free shuttle bus services for students, connecting the campus with key transport hubs and nearby suburbs. Check your university's 'Transport' or 'Getting to Uni' webpage to see maps and timetables for these free services. Source: Monash University (Example)

30. What are the rules and fines for travelling on public transport without a valid ticket?

Travelling without a valid or tapped-on ticket can result in a significant on-the-spot fine from transport officers, often exceeding $200. It is a costly mistake, so always ensure you have sufficient balance and tap on and off correctly for every journey. Source: Victoria Legal Aid (Example)

31. What is the minimum wage in Australia for a casual, part-time worker?

The national minimum wage is reviewed annually, but casual workers must be paid a higher hourly rate than permanent staff to compensate for not receiving benefits like sick leave. This 'casual loading' is usually 25% on top of the base minimum wage. Source: Fair Work Ombudsman

32. Which types of jobs (e.g., hospitality, retail, food delivery) are easiest for students to get quickly?

Hospitality (cafes, restaurants), retail, and food delivery services (like Uber Eats or DoorDash) often have flexible hours and are popular first jobs for students. Supermarkets and cleaning companies also frequently hire students for casual roles. Source: Seek

33. What is the maximum number of hours I am legally allowed to work per week on my student visa?

Student visa holders are currently permitted to work a maximum of 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session. During official university holidays, you are allowed to work unlimited hours. Source: Department of Home Affairs

34. Do I get paid more for working on weekends or public holidays (penalty rates)?

Yes, under most industry awards in Australia, you are entitled to higher pay rates, known as 'penalty rates', for working on weekends, public holidays, or late-night shifts. The exact amount depends on your specific job and award agreement. Source: Fair Work Ombudsman

35. Where can I find legitimate job listings besides popular sites like Seek or Indeed?

Your university's career hub or student job board is an excellent resource, as employers often post jobs there specifically for students. Also, physically walking into local cafes, restaurants, and retail shops with your resume can be a very effective strategy. Source: Insider Guides

36. Which mobile provider offers the cheapest prepaid plans with decent data for students?

Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) like Aldi Mobile, Boost, Amaysim, or Gomo generally offer the cheapest prepaid plans. They use the networks of the major providers (Telstra, Optus, Vodafone) but at a lower cost. Source: WhistleOut (Comparison Site)

37. Should I buy a new SIM card at the airport or wait until I get into the city?

While you can buy a SIM card at the airport for immediate convenience, you will find much cheaper and better value plans by waiting until you can visit a supermarket (like Aldi, Coles, Woolworths) or a dedicated phone store in the city. Source: Finder.com.au

38. Is it necessary to get home internet if I can use the free Wi-Fi at my university?

You can save a lot of money by relying solely on your university's free Wi-Fi and your mobile data, especially if you plan to study on campus most of the time. However, if your share house doesn't have internet, it might be difficult for study and leisure during evenings and weekends. Source: Insider Guides

39. What are the most popular and cost-effective mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs)?

MVNOs resell access to the major networks at a lower price point. Some of the most popular for their value are Aldi Mobile (uses Telstra's network), Boost Mobile (full Telstra network), and Amaysim (uses Optus network). Source: Canstar Blue

40. Which are the cheapest supermarkets: Coles, Woolworths, or Aldi?

Aldi is widely considered the cheapest supermarket for staple groceries, though it has a smaller range of brands. Coles and Woolworths are the two largest chains and often have competitive weekly specials, which are worth checking via their catalogues or apps. Source: ALDI Australia

41. Where can I find Indian grocery stores for familiar spices and ingredients?

Most major cities have suburbs with large Indian populations, such as Harris Park in Sydney or areas in Dandenong in Melbourne, which have numerous Indian grocery stores. A simple Google Maps search for "Indian grocery store near me" will show your closest options. Source: Google Maps

42. What time of day or day of the week is best to buy discounted fresh produce or meat?

Many supermarkets, especially Coles and Woolworths, heavily discount perishable items like meat, baked goods, and dairy products in the late evening, typically after 7 PM. For fresh produce, visiting local markets like Paddy's Markets (Sydney) or Queen Victoria Market (Melbourne) near closing time on a weekend can yield great bargains. Source: Queen Victoria Market (Example)

43. Are there any loyalty cards or apps for supermarkets that offer good savings?

Yes, signing up for Coles' Flybuys and Woolworths' Everyday Rewards cards is free and essential for savings. These programs offer points on your shopping that can be converted into cash discounts on future grocery bills. Source: Everyday Rewards

44. Where can I buy cheap household items, like bedding and kitchen utensils, when I first arrive?

For new and extremely cheap household items, stores like Kmart, Target, and Big W are your best options. You can also find second-hand goods for very low prices or even for free on Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree. Source: Kmart Australia

45. How can I make friends without spending a lot of money on going out?

Join university clubs and societies, which often host free or low-cost events like movie nights, picnics, or sports games. Also, look for free community events, festivals, and local walking or hiking groups on websites like Meetup.com. Source: Meetup

46. Are there free university clubs or societies I can join?

Most universities have a wide variety of student clubs, and the membership fee is often very low (or even free), especially for cultural or academic groups. Attending the 'O-Week' (Orientation Week) at the start of the semester is the best way to explore and sign up for these clubs. Source: UTS (Example Club List)

47. What are some common Aussie slang words I should know to understand people better?

Understanding a few key slang words will help you settle in: 'Arvo' (afternoon), 'No worries' (you're welcome/it's okay), 'Brekky' (breakfast), and 'Maccas' (McDonald's). Most Aussies are happy to explain any slang you don't understand. Source: Tourism Australia

48. Is tipping expected in cafes or restaurants in Australia?

No, tipping is not expected or required in Australia as hospitality staff are paid a fair minimum wage. While you can leave a small tip for exceptional service if you wish, you should never feel obligated to do so. Source: Insider Guides

49. Can I use my Indian driver's license in Australia, and for how long?

Yes, as a temporary visitor on a student visa, you can typically drive using your valid Indian license, as long as it is in English. The rules vary by state, so you must check with the local transport authority (e.g., Service NSW, VicRoads) for their specific requirements and time limits. Source: Service NSW (Example)

50. What is a "Photo Card" or "Proof of Age card" and is it a cheaper/easier form of ID than getting a local license?

A Photo Card (or Proof of Age card) is an official government-issued identity document that is much easier and cheaper to obtain than a driver's license. It's very useful for proving your age to enter venues or as a general ID, saving you from carrying your passport everywhere. Source: Service NSW (Example)

51. Does the course I choose affect my chances for a post-study work visa (subclass 485)?

Yes, to be eligible for the Post-Study Work stream of the subclass 485 visa, you must have completed a Bachelor, Masters, or Doctoral degree. The duration of your visa will depend on your qualification, with longer periods often granted for study in regional areas. Source: Department of Home Affairs

52. What is a skills assessment and when should I start thinking about it?

A skills assessment is a process to confirm that your skills meet the standards required for a particular occupation in Australia, which is a key requirement for most skilled migration visas. You should start researching the requirements for your nominated occupation as you near the end of your studies. Source: Skill Occupation List

53. Is it better to study in a regional area to get extra points for PR?

Studying in a designated regional area can provide significant advantages for permanent residency, including access to specific visas and additional points in the points test. This can be a strategic choice if PR is your long-term goal. Source: Department of Home Affairs