Making Australia home: international students share their tips

Getting set up in a new country is a major undertaking for anyone but when that transition also comes with a new course of study – often in a language other than your native tongue – the stakes can feel much higher. Mastering the logistics is one part of the puzzle but finding that “at home” feeling is another thing entirely... and it can take some time. From opening a bank account to finding your feet day to day, there’s a lot to think about when you’re new to life in Australia.

Adjusting to life and study in Sydney

“Arriving from Indonesia, I knew I’d be okay with the heat but it was the dryness I didn’t expect,” says Francess Lee, a 24-year-old student at Sydney’s UNSW, completing a Master’s degree in special education. “My skin got so dry, because it isn’t used to the lack of humidity.”

Another thing Francess found shocking was the cost of public transport in the Harbour City. “I’d mostly travelled in Asia before this, where public transport – even taxis – are cheap. At first, I took the light rail everywhere in Sydney but then I looked at how much money it was charging me on my card and I was shocked. Now I try to stick to the bus or I walk if I can.”

Putting yourself out there

When it comes to settling in, Francess has found a few new habits that pay dividends. “The biggest thing I’ve learnt is that it’s so important to put yourself out there, even if you feel silly,” she says.

“I was lucky – because I go to church, I had a ready-made community here in Sydney but I also joined an app called Meetup and noticed they were hosting beach volleyball sessions for people who wanted to come and make friends. I’ve met some really great people that way.”

Finding community where you live

Francess rents in popular student co-living project The Switch in Kensington and says she’s found like-minded friends living in her building. “At first, I didn’t know if it was worth it but I started going to the gym then joined the run club we have and now I feel like I have a lot of familiar faces around me.”

Whether you’re renting alone, sharing with others or living in a co-living space, understanding your costs upfront can make settling in much easier. There are a few things worth knowing when it comes to staying on top of your finances while renting.

Getting help with banking and setting up essentials in Australia

“When I arrived, I opened an account with CommBank and I didn’t realise how helpful they were until I started setting up utility suppliers,” says Francess. “Little things – like explaining that I had to enter my passport details in a certain way – made it a much nicer experience and far less confusing and time-consuming!” 

If you’re new to the country, having support while setting up your banking as a student can help take some of the stress out of the process.

Making your food budget go further

“Groceries in Sydney are expensive but I like to cook,” she explains. “My university classes are pretty spread out but I don’t have a huge amount of time in between. I usually buy meat in bulk then I put it into smaller plastic bags to freeze. That way I always have something on hand when I need it.”

Groceries can add up quickly, especially when you’re busy studying. Many students find it helps to plan ahead and look for practical ways to save on everyday costs.

4 tips from a seasoned student

Originally from India but having spent most of his life in Dubai, Sahel Mohammed moved to Sydney four years ago to study at UTS. Between uni, saving and socialising, he’s found what works for him. Here are his top tips.

1. Earn while you study

“Every little bit helps and having a casual job allows you to keep money flowing in while also allowing you to widen your social circle outside your studies.”

2. Automate your savings to build good money habits early

“Figure out what the reality of your budget is. Automate essential expenses so they come out of your bank account at the beginning of each month and work out what you can save from there. Living in Australia might be more expensive than you expected!”

3. Enjoy life without overspending

“My friends and I like to buy food at food trucks or affordable takeaway options – there are a lot of great options in areas like Harris Park – then we will have a picnic or do low-cost activities like days at the beach.”

4. Transport costs more than you’d expect

“Public transport is expensive – but so is petrol. Treat it as a non-negotiable and allocate a set amount each month to your Opal card so you’re not restricting your options when getting out and exploring.”

Published: 26 January 2026

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