We welcome you to our city. There are things you can do to make yourself at home here quickly. You’ll settle in fast in Canberra.

Once you’ve decided to study in Canberra, it’s time to plan for your move. Read up on everything you need to know about moving here.

• Visit Canberra provides a great overview of the city. There are brochures, maps and apps and information about events, attractions, food and entertainment.
• Rise Canberra and Events ACT offer comprehensive guides to what’s on.
• This international student guide is written by local students and has relevant information for Australian students.

Your first week in Canberra

Airport Welcome Desk

If you fly in, our team of Student Ambassadors are on hand at Canberra airport to meet you. You’ll find the Welcome Desk on the ground floor in the arrivals hall. The desk is staffed during peak arrival periods each semester. Pick up a welcome pack with information to help you settle in quickly.

Arrange your MyWay card to catch public transport

Travel on buses and the light rail is discounted for students. Carry your student ID when using public transport. You can get an even bigger discount with a student MyWay card. You can apply for it online.

Know your living costs

You can use this online calculator to work out approximately what you’ll spend on living costs in Canberra. Costs may differ from where you live now. It’s a good idea to work out your budget ahead of time.

Stock your fridge

You’ll find large shopping centres and malls in the city and in each town centre. Almost every suburb has its own supermarket and smaller specialty stores. You can order from the larger supermarkets online and have your groceries delivered to your door.

Free internet

You can access free wireless internet (wi-fi) around parts of Canberra including:

• the CBD
• public venues
• major town centres
• Canberra Airport
• some public buses and the light rail

Public libraries, community centres and your campus may offer free wi-fi too. You’ll find many cafes around Canberra have internet access, either for free or when you buy something else.

Say hello to your new neighbours

Canberra is a friendly place. If you’re new here, you won’t be alone. Around two-thirds of new students in Canberra are not from here. You’ll meet people from across Australia and around the world.

Settling in at your campus

The fastest way to settle in is to explore the city, meet new people and get involved in activities.

Orientation Week

O-Week is the highlight of the student social calendar. It’s vibrant and fun and happens at the start of the academic year. In addition to the entertainment and social events, you’ll learn how to get the most out of studying here. Get to know the campus, make friends and ease into campus life before classes start.

O-Week typically includes an introduction to:

• support services
• social events
• sports and cultural clubs and societies

Student support services

If you ever need help, you’ll find a lot of support on campus and across Canberra. Reach out to people who can make your study or living experience easier. You’ll find support on a range of topics, including:

• language
• academic concerns
• mental health
• employment
• religion
• disability

Check with your institution for specific activities, groups and student support available.