Choosing a bank account and phone plan

You need both a bank account and a phone plan almost as soon as you land. The good news is that you can change either later, so the first choice doesn't have to be perfect.

Bank account

Australia's four largest banks are Commonwealth Bank (CBA), Westpac, ANZ and NAB. They have many campus and city branches, and most offer accounts for students or new arrivals. There are also online-only banks with good apps but no branches.

What to look at:

1. Monthly fees. Many student accounts have none, but some require an age limit, proof of enrolment or a minimum monthly deposit. Read the conditions first.
2. Branches and ATMs. Is there a branch near campus, and are there fees for withdrawing cash?
3. Opening before you leave. Some banks let you apply before you fly. After you land, take your passport to a branch to verify your identity and collect your card, which makes the first week much easier.
4. International transfers. If family will send money from home, compare exchange rates and fees. Banks and specialist transfer services can differ a lot.

Phone plan

Australia has three main networks: Telstra, Optus and Vodafone. Telstra usually has the best coverage in regional areas; in cities the difference is small. Many smaller brands use these networks and cost less, which suits most students.

• Start with a prepaid plan, with no long contract, and decide after a month or two.
• You need your passport to verify your identity when you activate a SIM. This is an Australian requirement.
• Check the data allowance, whether international calls are included, and whether it renews automatically.
• Many universities hand out free SIM cards during orientation.

Once both are set up

Add your new number to your uni portal, bank and OSHC account so codes and notices reach you.

For the full order of things in your first week, see your first week.