What to bring to Australia

Melbourne has plenty of affordable retail and second-hand stores. Read on for tips on what to bring and what you can buy when you arrive to make your new place a home.

Climate

Melbourne’s climate is temperate but variable. It can be hot and humid one day, then cold and rainy the next. Summer (December-February) temperatures average 26 degrees Celsius but can reach above 35 degrees Celsius. Winter (June-August) temperatures can average around 13 degrees Celsius with occasional frosts.

What to bring with you

Here’s a list of the essentials you will need to bring with you:

  • All your official documentation: passport, visa, offer letter etc.
  • Your OSHC card
  • Australian currency: at least $150AUD to get you started.
  • Summer clothes
  • Warm coat
  • Travel adaptors for your electrical items
  • Credit card (or Australian bank card)

What you can buy when you arrive

We advise you leave all your large items at home, here is a list of items you can buy when you arrive:

  • Household items
  • Pillows and linen
  • Appliances such as rice cookers, toasters
  • Sunscreen
  • Clothing.

Local shopping

The following superstores are within a 5km radius of the Parkville campus and offer affordable basics for the home:

  • IKEA, 620 Victoria St, Richmond VIC 3121
  • Big W, Swanston St and Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000
  • Kmart, Barkly Square S, C/90-106 Sydney Rd, Brunswick VIC 3056
  • Kmart, 236 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Local currency

When you arrive in Melbourne, if you haven’t already arranged to be picked up by a representative from the University, you might decide to get a taxi or catch the Shuttle bus to the city. Consider having around $150AUD in your purse or wallet just to tide you over during those first few days.

Keep in mind, there are automatic teller machines (ATMs) where you can withdraw money all over the city and at the airport. Most businesses accept credit and debit cards electronically.

Want more information about life in Melbourne?

Find out more about getting set up in Melbourne