Moving to Australia is a great opportunity to make a fresh start in a welcoming and diverse country, but it is important to give yourself some time to adjust, settle in, and embrace the new lifestyle. From setting up essentials like banking and healthcare to getting used to the local culture and everyday life, the first few weeks can be both thrilling and overwhelming.
As Australia’s trusted international removalists, Overseas Packers & Shippers provide expert advice and guidance to help you settle into your new home, on top of your moving and overseas shipping needs from custom procedures to vehicle imports. We have gathered expat’s top tips to help you navigate your first few weeks after moving to Australia, allowing you to quickly find your footing and start enjoying all that this destination has to offer.
Setting up Australian Bank Accounts
Source: https://www.reddit.com/r/AskAnAustralian/comments/zm007u/advice_please/
When moving to Australia, setting up a bank account is one of the first things you’ll need to do. You can open an account with just proof of ID, such as your passport and a document confirming proof of address. This will give you access to a debit card for everyday transactions, but if you plan to get a credit card, most banks will require a letter from your employer confirming your income.
Australia’s banking system also has some key differences when it comes to payments. Instead of apps like Venmo or PayPal, most people use Osko, which allows instant transfers. For everyday payments, BPay is used to pay bills and invoices directly from your bank account. Once you get your accounts set up, these easy-to-use digital payment methods make managing your finances in Australia seamless and straightforward.
Navigating Australian Health Insurance Options
Sources: https://www.reddit.com/r/AskAnAustralian/comments/zm007u/advice_please/
When moving to Australia, securing health insurance is an important step in your transition. While there are many insurance providers, only a few offer coverage specifically designed for expats. Major providers are recommended as the top options to consider, with various levels of coverage suited to different needs and budgets.For detailed information on eligibility, requirements, and available plans, it is important to research and choose the right policy.
To check or understand any visa-related health insurance requirements, referring to the Department of Home Affairs website is a reliable way to get accurate and up-to-date information.
Choosing the Right Phone Plan
When setting up your mobile service in Australia, the best provider for you will depend largely on where you plan to live. The country has the three main physical networks of Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone, each with varying levels of coverage and pricing.
A great way to test different networks before committing is by using an eSIM. An eSIM (embedded SIM) lets you activate a mobile plan without needing a physical SIM card, making it easy to switch between providers and find the one with the best range for your location. Before committing to a provider, it is a good idea to check coverage maps for your specific location to ensure reliable service.
Joining Communities
Source: https://www.reddit.com/r/AskAnAustralian/comments/1d7g87c/how_do_people_make_friends_in_australia/
Making new friends in Australia is easier than you might think, no matter your age or stage of life. There are plenty of ways to build connections, whether you’re moving with your family, working, studying, retiring, or starting afresh on your own.
For families, school communities can be a great place to start. Getting involved with school committees, attending events, or simply chatting with other parents at drop-off and pick-up can naturally lead to friendships.
For people of all ages, social groups and clubs provide a fantastic way to connect. Between local sports teams, hobby communities, or clubs focused on interests like gardening, music, and volunteering, joining a group can help you meet people with shared passions. No matter your stage in life, getting involved and staying open to new experiences can help you build a strong social network in Australia.
What to Expect in the First Few Weeks After Moving to Australia
Moving to Australia is an exciting journey, and getting the essentials sorted – like banking, health insurance, and a reliable phone plan – will help make the transition smoother. Finding the right services depends on your location, lifestyle, and personal needs, so taking the time to research and test different options is worthwhile.
Beyond the logistics of the move, building a social network is just as important. Whether it’s through work, school communities, hobbies, or social groups, there are plenty of ways to make connections and feel at home. With a little preparation and an open mindset, you’ll soon find your rhythm and start enjoying everything Australia has to offer!
How Overseas Packers & Shippers Helps
Need a trusted partner for your move abroad? Overseas Packers & Shippers is an international moving company that can receive and unpack your belongings once your shipment reaches Australia. As a member of Overseas Moving Network International (OMNI), our team is part of a global network of international removalists who are capable of acquiring, transporting, and unpacking your belongings once they arrive in Australia. If you have recently arrived in the country and have any questions about your belongings being handled by our team, feel free to contact us today.
