Life in Australia

Where to look

In Australia, the rental market is mostly digital — almost all listings are posted online. The most popular platforms for searching are:

• realestate.com.au
• domain.com.au
• flatmates.com.au — for room rentals
  
• Gumtree.com.au — used housing, sublets, private listings

💡 Tip: In large cities, accommodation is rented very quickly. If you see a good option, don't hesitate to apply.

What do you need to apply for a rental?

Applications are submitted via an online form (sometimes via the 1form, Snug or tenantoptions.com.au platforms) and include:

• Passport or other ID
  
• Visa or proof of legal residence
  
• Proof of income (employment reference, tax return, or bank statement)
• References from previous landlords (if available)
  
• Contact details of an Australian guarantor

Viewing the property

• Open for inspection — these are general viewings that require advance registration.
• Your best chance is to attend the viewing in person. Online applications without a visit are often ignored.

What to look for when renting accommodation in Australia

Read the listing description carefully before applying. Important points to pay attention to:

• Furnished / Unfurnished / Partly furnished — indicates whether the property is furnished. Most properties are unfurnished.
• Bills included / not included — indicates whether utilities (water, electricity, internet) are included in the rent.
• Minimum lease term — the minimum rental period: often 6 or 12 months. Check if there are penalties for early termination of the contract.
• Pet-friendly / No pets — if you have pets, make sure they are allowed.

Tips

• In Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane, up to 30 people can apply for one apartment.
• To increase your chances, add a short cover letter to your application: who you are, why you are looking for accommodation, and proof of financial solvency.
• If you are a student or have just arrived, try renting a room first to get references.

💡 If you are unsure about the wording in the contract or are asked to pay a “deposit” in advance without official guarantees, this is a red flag.

➡️ Legal assistance with checking the contract and rental conditions is available at Visit Ukraine.

Where to buy food

1. Supermarkets:

• Woolworths and Coles are the largest chains with a wide selection and average prices.
• Aldi is a discounter with cheaper, mostly private label brands.
• IGA is a chain of small stores in areas without large supermarkets.

2. Farmers' markets:

• Sell fresh seasonal vegetables, fruits, meat, and seafood.
• The most famous are Queen Victoria Market (Melbourne) and Sydney Fish Market (Sydney).
• Often more expensive, but better quality.

3. Online delivery:

• Woolworths Online, Coles Online, Aussie Farmers Direct — allow you to shop with home delivery.
• Delivery costs $4–15 AUD (≈ 2.5–9 €) depending on the city and time.

Specialized stores (Asian, European) are also popular.

Average food expenses

• One person — $400–600 AUD (≈ 240–370 €) per month.
• Couple — $700–900 AUD (≈ 430–560 €).
• Family with a child — $1,200–1,500 AUD (≈ 740–925 €).

Examples of prices for basic products (Melbourne, Sydney):

• Milk, 1 liter — $2 AUD (≈ 1.25 €)
• Chicken, 1 kg — $10–14 AUD (≈ 6–9 €)
• Rice, 1 kg — $2.50 AUD (≈ 1.55 €)
• Eggs, a dozen — $4–5 AUD (≈ 2.50–3 €)
• Apples, 1 kg — $3–4 AUD (≈ 1.85–2.50 €)
• Bread, loaf — $2.50–4 AUD (≈ 1.55–2.50 €)

💡 Cheese, chocolate, coffee, and olive oil are significantly more expensive than in Ukraine. It is more economical to choose local brands.

Cafes, restaurants, and eating out

Australians actively eat out, especially on weekends. The menu is multicultural, with options for every taste, from burgers to Vietnamese noodles.

• Inexpensive cafes and takeaways — AUD 12–18 (≈ €7.40–11) per meal.
• Lunch at a food court — AUD 10–15 (≈ €6.20–9.30).
• Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant — $60–90 AUD (≈ 37–55 €).
• Fast food (McDonald’s, Hungry Jack's) — $12–15 AUD (≈ 7.40–9.30 €).

Tips for beginners

• Keep an eye on supermarket promotions — there are weekly specials with big discounts.
• Prices at markets can be flexible in the evening, especially for perishable goods.
• If you prefer familiar foods, look for European deli shops, but be prepared for prices that are 2–3 times higher.
• Alcohol is only sold in specialized stores (Bottle Shops), not in supermarkets.

Australia is a large country with huge distances between cities, so you can't do without competent travel planning. Large urban areas have well-developed public transportation, but in rural areas or small towns, getting around without a car can be difficult. The long distances between state capitals are often easier to cover by plane than by train or bus.

Public transport in cities

Each state and territory has its own transport system and separate rules:

• Sydney (New South Wales) — the Opal Card system covers trains, buses, ferries, and light rail.
• Melbourne (Victoria) — the Myki Card is used for trams, trains, and buses.
• Brisbane (Queensland) — the Go Card is valid for TransLink transport.
• Adelaide, Perth, Canberra — have their own cards and operators.

💡 Payment is possible with a transport card, bank card, or via apps. The most convenient option is to buy a card immediately upon arrival at the airport or train station.

Approximate prices:

• Single trip: $3–5 AUD (≈ 1.85–3.10 €), depending on the zone.
• Monthly pass: $100–180 AUD (≈ 61–110 €).
• Students, seniors, and people with disabilities get up to a 50% discount.

💡 It's handy to plan your route using apps like TripView, TransportNSW, Moovit, and Google Maps — they're accurate and show real-time arrival times.

Taxis and car sharing services

Taxis in Australia are expensive and less commonly used than Uber or Ola.

• The starting fare for a taxi is AUD 4–6 (≈ €2.50–3.70).
• Mileage is AUD 2–3 per km.
• A trip within the city will cost AUD 20–40 (≈ €12–24).

Most popular services:

• Uber — works reliably in all major cities.
• Ola and Didi are cheaper alternatives with similar services.
• Payment is made through the app; cash is rarely used.

Intercity travel

Given the vast distances, many Australians travel by air, which is often cheaper than trains.

Trains:

• NSW TrainLink, V/Line, Queensland Rail — connect major cities within states.
• Trains are comfortable but slow and not always cheap.

Intercity buses:

• Greyhound, Firefly, Premier — comfortable buses with Wi-Fi, power outlets, and air conditioning.
• For example, Sydney to Melbourne: from $40 AUD (≈ 24 €), travel time — 12 hours.

Flights:

• Often cheaper and faster than trains. Carriers: Jetstar, Qantas, Virgin Australia.
• Flight Sydney — Melbourne: from $80 AUD (≈ 49 €), duration — 1.5 hours.

💡 Tip: book tickets in advance through aggregators or official websites. Jetstar often has sales with tickets starting at $39 AUD.

Car rental and private transport

In many cases, a private car is a more convenient option, especially outside of large cities.

• Car rental — from $50–70 AUD/day (≈ 30–43 €), depending on the class of car and city.
• Insurance is often not included, so it is worth adding full coverage.
• Fuel costs AUD 1.80–2.20/liter (≈ €1.10–1.35). Prices may vary between states.
• Parking in city centers costs up to AUD 40/day (≈ €24) or AUD 4–6/hour.
• Fines are strict for speeding, parking in prohibited areas, and driving without registration.

💡 A Ukrainian driver's license with Latin transliteration is sufficient for renting a car, but some companies require an IDP (international driver's license) — we recommend having one with you.

For more information about renting a car in Australia, follow the link.

Which banks open accounts for foreigners?

In Australia, foreigners can easily open a bank account at major banks that have special programs for newcomers:

• Commonwealth Bank — the most popular bank among migrants, offers online account opening before arrival
• Westpac — has packages for students and new residents
• ANZ — convenient mobile app, many branches in cities
• NAB (National Australia Bank) — focuses on simple banking services

Most banks allow you to open an account online from Ukraine — you can activate it on site at a branch after confirming your identity.

What do you need to open an account?

To open an account, you will need:

• Passport
• Visa or eVisa
• Australian address (can even be a hotel or Airbnb)
• Tax File Number (TFN) — not required, but reduces the tax rate on interest

The procedure takes about 30–60 minutes. In some cases, you can get a card right away, in others — only in digital form (in Apple Pay/Google Pay).

💡 Important: The bank may refuse to open an account if you cannot confirm your address or visa. In this case, it is better to contact consultants or choose another bank.

Cash, ATMs, and payments

All Australian banks support Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay — most payments are made by phone or contactless card. Cash is used less and less.

• Cash withdrawals from your own ATMs are free
• At other banks' ATMs, there is a commission of $2–3 (≈ 1.30–1.90 €)
• PayPass/PayWave is available almost everywhere, even in cafes and kiosks

In small towns or farmers' markets, you may need cash. Withdraw the necessary amount in advance or ask if they accept cards.

💡 If you are not sure which bank is right for you or do not understand the requirements for opening an account, consult a lawyer.

➡️ Financial advice is available at Visit Ukraine.

Major mobile operators

There are three major telecom companies in Australia, each with its own advantages:

• Telstra — leader in coverage quality, especially in rural and remote areas. Reliable network, but more expensive tariffs.
• Optus is the second largest operator with good coverage in cities and more affordable offers.
• Vodafone (TPG Telecom) is the cheapest of the “big three,” but coverage is weaker outside cities.

💡 All three operators have subsidiary services with flexible rates and no contract. Popular options:

• Boost Mobile (operates on the Telstra network — better coverage, cheaper)
• Amaysim, Lebara, Aldi Mobile, Kogan Mobile — aimed at users on a budget, convenient prepaid packages, online top-up option.

Mobile phone and internet costs

SIM cards and plans

• A starter pack with 20–30 GB of mobile internet costs AU$20–40/month (≈ €12–25).
• Most plans include unlimited calls within Australia and text messages.
• You can choose a monthly subscription with no commitment — convenient for newcomers or temporary stays.

Documents required to purchase a SIM card:

• Passport is required.
• Some operators may ask for proof of address in Australia, such as a rental agreement or bank statement.
• You can purchase a SIM card in a store, supermarket, or online.

💡 A popular option is to order a SIM card before arriving in Australia through the operator's website with delivery to your hotel or post office.

Home internet

Broadband internet (NBN — National Broadband Network) covers most populated areas.

• Speed: 25 to 250 Mbit/s (depending on the tariff)
• Price: AU$60–100/month (≈ 38–63 €)
• Providers: Telstra, Optus, TPG, Aussie Broadband, iiNet, Dodo

You can sign up online or by phone. You will need:

• An Australian phone number
• A bank account
• An address for the service (sometimes the landlord must allow installation)
  

💡 Some homes already have the equipment installed. Otherwise, you may have to pay for technical connection or buy/rent a modem (costs an additional AU$50–150).

Practical tips

• In large cities, you can use mobile internet instead of home internet — some plans offer 100–150 GB/month.
• Wi-Fi is available in libraries, universities, cafes, and many public places.

In Australia, early childhood education and development are a priority for the government, so even newly arrived families have access to kindergartens, schools, and clubs. However, it is worth preparing the necessary documents in advance and understanding the specifics of the system.

Kindergartens

Kindergartens here are divided into full-day (long day care), short-term (preschool), home-based (family day care), and hourly (occasional care). Most Ukrainian families choose private or community-based centers because they have more places and flexible schedules.

Cost — on average, AU$100 to AU$160 per day (≈€63–100), depending on the type of kindergarten, length of stay, and region. The cost usually includes:

• nutritious meals
• nap
• games, educational and creative activities

Documents required for enrollment:

• passport of the child and one of the parents
• proof of visa or residence permit
• immunization history statement
• address of residence (even temporary)
• health insurance or Medicare card (if available)

Good to know:

There is a government subsidy — Child Care Subsidy — which partially covers the cost of kindergarten. Parents with PR or a temporary visa with the right to work are eligible for this subsidy.

Schools

Compulsory education in Australia begins at age 6 and continues until age 16–18. There are three types of schools:

• Public schools — state-run, mostly free
• Private schools — fee-paying, often religious
• International schools — for children of foreigners or diplomats

Tuition fees:

• state school — from AU$0 to AU$6,000/year (≈ 0–3,800 €)
• Private schools — AU$10,000–35,000/year (≈€6,300–22,000)

Classes are taught in English, but children who do not speak English receive ESL (English as a Second Language) support. The academic year consists of four terms with breaks in between. Classes are held from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and school uniforms are mandatory.

Extracurricular activities

Australia is a country with an active lifestyle, so there is a wide range of clubs and activities to choose from.

Most popular activities:

• sports: swimming, soccer, tennis, netball
• creative activities: music, drawing, theater studios
• science: robotics, STEM clubs, IT school
• vacation camps (day and overnight)

Approximate prices:

• club membership — from AU$100/term (≈ 63 €)
• holiday camp — AU$300–600/week
• many schools have free interest clubs

Some states have support programs, such as Active Kids or Creative Kids, which provide vouchers to pay for clubs for low-income families.

Healthcare

Australia has one of the best healthcare systems in the world, combining a public Medicare program with private insurance. Citizens and residents have access to most healthcare services through Medicare, but separate conditions apply to foreigners.

Is Medicare available to foreigners?

No, tourists, students, and temporary workers are not usually eligible for Medicare. Therefore, medical insurance is mandatory and essential for Ukrainians.

➡️ You can purchase travel or medical insurance through Visit Ukraine.

How much does medical care cost?

• Consultation with a general practitioner (GP) — $70–100 AUD (≈ 42–60 €) if you do not have insurance
  
• Ambulance call — $400–1,200 AUD (≈ 250–720 €)
• Dental services — from $150 AUD (≈ 90 €) for a simple filling
  
• Blood test — $100–150 AUD (≈ 60–90 €) if not covered by insurance

How to get insurance?

• Students need Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
  
• For work visas — Overseas Visitors Health Cover (OVHC)
  
• For tourists — standard medical insurance for travel

How to call an ambulance or find a doctor?

• Emergency number — 000
  
• Every city has private clinics and medical centers that accept foreigners
  
• Online services for finding a doctor: HealthShare, HotDoc, MyHealth1st

Pharmacies and medicines

• Pharmacies are open daily, often until 9:00 p.m.
  
• Most medicines are sold by prescription
  
• Over-the-counter medicines (for colds, pain, allergies) are available in supermarkets

Language and adaptation

Although English is the official language in Australia, newly arrived Ukrainians sometimes find it difficult to get used to local variations right away. Accents, informal expressions (slang), and the fast pace of speech can be challenging in the first few weeks.

This is especially noticeable when communicating with officials, doctors, or in shops. The good news is that the state actively helps immigrants learn the language.

Where to find English courses:

• TAFE (technical colleges) in each state offer ESL programs (English as a Second Language)
• AMEP (Adult Migrant English Program) — free or subsidized courses for those who are eligible for temporary or permanent residence
• Volunteer centers or churches often organize informal language clubs where you can practice English in a friendly atmosphere

Fines and local rules

Australia is a country with strict rules, where “not knowing” does not exempt you from responsibility. Fines may seem harsh, but they are necessary to maintain order, cleanliness, and safety.

The most common violations and fines:

• Speeding — from 300 AUD (≈ 180 €)
• Smoking in public places or near bus stops — up to AUD 150
• Littering — AUD 200 and above
• Illegal parking — up to AUD 120 (≈ €72)

❗️Fines are usually sent by mail or electronically. You can pay online — delaying payment may result in legal action or your documents being blocked.

Leisure

Australia is not just about work and everyday life. It is a country that offers exciting leisure activities, beautiful nature, and comfortable socialization even for newcomers.

What you should definitely try:

• Beach holidays in Sydney, Gold Coast, Perth
• Hiking and camping in national parks: Blue Mountains, Dandenong Ranges, Kakadu
• Visiting free city festivals, fairs, and open-air cinemas

And also — join immigrant support groups: Ukrainian diasporas, municipal cultural centers, church communities. There you can:

• make friends
• get advice on adaptation
• get involved in volunteering
• get free legal or psychological support

✅ Services from Visit Ukraine for Ukrainians in Australia

Life in Australia can be predictable and comfortable if you take care of your basic needs in advance. The Visit Ukraine platform will help you adapt faster and with more confidence. With us, you can:

🔹 Get international medical insurance online — for a legal and safe stay in Australia

🔹 Book tickets for planes, trains, or buses — for travel within Ukraine or to other countries

🔹 Get legal advice — on renting accommodation, finding a job, opening a bank account, or legalizing documents

🔹 Learn more about immigration to Australia

💙 We work to ensure that every Ukrainian abroad feels confident and protected. Take advantage of Visit Ukraine's support today!