Coming to Australia

Driving in Australia

If you intend to drive in Queensland you must bring your current driver's licence with you. Ensure that your licence will cover the duration of your studies as it is very difficult for international students to get a Queensland licence. You are allowed to drive in Queensland using your home licence, on condition that you always have your passport with you. As an alternative, you may get an international licence, but this is valid only for one year. For further information visit the website of Queensland Transport.

Money and Banking

During your first few weeks you may need at least AUD$500 in cash and A$1500 in travellers' cheques, or an international credit card for the first two to three weeks. It is recommended that you record the serial numbers of your traveller's cheques and any bank drafts.
We advise not to bring more than AUD$10,000 in any currency as you will need to complete a Cash Transaction Report at the Customs area when you arrive, and this may delay you at the airport.

For your convenience we recommend that you open a bank account at a branch of the major Australian banks close to where you will be studying or living. Click here for a currency exchange calculator .

Health Insurance - Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

All International students are required to obtain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the period of their visa.There are only a limited number of companies that provide OSHC. These companies include:

• AHM (CADET Preferred Provider)
  
• Medibank Private
  
• OHSC Worldcare

Costs will vary depending on the length of study and whether you want single or family cover