Touching down in a new country is a big moment. Here’s exactly what to expect from the airport to your first day, whether you’re landing in Melbourne or Brisbane.
At the airport
You’ll arrive at the international terminal. Complete your Digital Passenger Declaration online before you fly (or your Incoming Passenger Card on the plane, if that still applies to your route), then follow the signs to immigration, baggage claim, quarantine and customs. If you booked airport pickup with us, look for our staff member holding a sign with your name in the arrivals hall.
Immigration & customs
- Immigration — join the queue for non-Australian passport holders. An officer will check your passport and declaration. No photography in this area.
- Baggage — collect your bags from the carousel shown on the screens; free trolleys are available.
- Declare — declare all food, plant or animal items on your declaration. If unsure, declare anyway.
- Customs — take the green route if you have nothing to declare, or the red route if you do.
Failing to declare prohibited items can mean an on-the-spot fine — from $313 up to $6,260 AUD depending on severity — as well as possible visa issues, so always declare. Need help? Contact Student Support on (03) 7068 8413 (Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm) or info@evantaa.edu.au. In a genuine emergency, call 000 any time.
Changing money
Bring or exchange around AUD $500 as a buffer for your first week — of which $100–$200 in cash is enough for your first day. Airport exchange counters are convenient but offer lower rates; city banks and CBD exchange booths are usually better, and ATMs work well if you check your card’s international fees.
Your first day
- Getting into the city: Melbourne — SkyBus runs roughly 4am–1am daily to Southern Cross Station. Brisbane — the Airtrain runs roughly 4:30am–10pm to the city, from about $23.30 one-way. Licensed taxis and rideshare are available at both airports, any time.
- Let people know you’ve arrived — airport Wi-Fi is free if you don’t have a SIM yet.
- Set up the essentials: confirm your accommodation, open a bank account, buy a SIM, and grab a public transport card (myki in Melbourne, go card in Brisbane).
- Attend orientation — details come by email, so check your inbox.
Settling in
It’s normal to move through excitement, homesickness, frustration and finally feeling at home. Give yourself time, join campus clubs and events, explore your city, and lean on our Student Support team on (03) 7068 8413 (Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm) or info@evantaa.edu.au whenever you need to. For emergencies, call 000 any time.
Keep exploring
- Planning Your Arrival — what to book and pack before you fly.
- Living in Australia — settling in, costs, and where to get support.
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — your visa-required health insurance.