Arrival Information

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Arriving at Airport

International Students

Australia is your gateway to new future. Here’s what to expect upon arrival:

Incoming Passenger Card

On your flight, you’ll receive an Incoming Passenger Card. Complete it accurately, declaring all goods as instructed. Keep a pen handy!

Airport Layout

You’ll arrive at Terminal 2 (T2 – International). Follow signs to immigration, baggage claim, quarantine, and customs areas.

App

Download the Melbourne Airport app for real-time flight information and terminal maps.

Support

If you arranged an airport pickup with Nova Vocational College, look for a staff member holding a sign with your name in the arrivals hall.

Immigration and Customs

Australia has strict biosecurity and customs regulations. Follow these four stages to clear immigration and customs smoothly:

Stage 1: Immigration

Join the queue for non-Australian passport holders. An officer will check your passport and Incoming Passenger Card, and may ask about your visit. Your passport will be stamped if approved. No photography is allowed in this area.

Stage 2: Baggage Collection

Check the screens for your flight’s carousel. Free trolleys are available. Use bins to discard prohibited items like food before moving on.

Stage 3: Declare

Declare all food, plant, or animal items listed on your Incoming Passenger Card. Unsure? Declare anyway. Prohibited items may be inspected, confiscated, or must be discarded.

Stage 4: Customs

Use the Green Route if you have nothing to declare, or the Red Route if you do. Random checks may occur. Need help? Ask for an interpreter or call NVC's 24/7 emergency line: +61 411 245 800.

Warning: Failure to declare prohibited items can result in fines up to AUD $6,600 or visa cancellation. Review the Australian Border Force website for details.

Changing Money

Before Leaving

Exchange at least AUD $500 before departure for initial expenses like transport and meals.

At the Airport

Currency exchange counters are available in Terminal 2, but they may close late at night or early morning. Rates may be less favorable.

In City

Visit major banks (e.g., Commonwealth Bank, ANZ) on weekdays or 7-day money exchange booths in the CBD (e.g., at Melbourne Central).

Alternatives

Use a bank card at ATMs for better rates, but check for international fees. Prepaid travel cards are also an option.

1

Leaving Airport

  • SkyBus: 24/7 express to Southern Cross Station, every 10–15 minutes (only in Melbourne)
    ▪ Includes free hotel shuttle to select CBD hotels (limited hours)
    ▪ Book online: www.skybus.com.au

  • Taxi: Available outside Terminals 1, 2, and 3
    ▪ Use only licensed taxis—avoid unregistered drivers

2

Contact Home

  • Let family or friends know you’ve arrived

  • Use free airport Wi-Fi if you don’t have a SIM card yet

3

Set Up Essentials

  • Accommodation: Confirm your place, connect utilities (e.g., Origin, Telstra, Optus)

  • Banking: Open an account at Commonwealth, ANZ, or other banks (bring passport + eCoE)

  • SIM Card: Buy prepaid SIMs from Telstra, Optus, or Vodafone

  • Public Transport: Get a travel card for trains, trams, and buses

4

Attend Orientation

  • Join NVC’s orientation week to meet staff, explore campus, and get course info

  • Details sent via email—check your inbox regularly

Your First Day in Australia What to Do After Landing

Settling In: Cultural Adjustment

1. The Excitement Phase

Your journey begins with excitement and curiosity. Everything feels new people, places, and opportunities. You’ll be eager to explore Melbourne and start your studies at NVC.

2. Feeling Homesick

As the excitement fades, you might start missing home, family, and familiar routines. Language barriers and academic pressures can also feel overwhelming. This stage is completely normal.

3. Navigating Frustration

Cultural differences or new customs may cause confusion or frustration. You might feel out of place or unsure of your identity as you adjust to your new environment.

4. Adapting to Change

With time, you’ll begin to understand how things work. You’ll build routines, make friends, and feel more confident in your day-to-day life and studies.

5. Feeling Integrated

Eventually, Australia will feel like a second home. You’ll be able to balance your cultural identity with your new life, thrive in your studies, and enjoy meaningful connections.

6. Tips to Help You Settle In

Connect: Join NVC clubs and events to meet new people. Explore: Visit Melbourne landmarks like Queen Victoria Market and Fed Square. Seek Support: Contact NVC’s Student Support Officer at +61 411 245 800.

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