8 things an overseas nurse needs in Australia

Coming to Australia is an exciting time as you embark on an new adventure.

Ready to make new memories, discover a vibrant and loving culture, meet amazing people, and work in some of Australia’s best nursing facilities? So are we! Register with You+Aus today!

We’ve put together a handy list of things you should consider organising before or at the start of your trip. Know a nurse who’s also about to make the move? Share this valuable resource with them, too!

1. Passport and visa

Of course, there’s no such thing as international travel without a valid passport!

In addition to your passport, you will also require the right visa that allows you to work temporarily in Australia. Visit the Australian Government’s Immigration website for some helpful information on working holiday visas. Please get in touch with You+Aus if you have further questions.

2. Bank card

Enjoy easy access to your earned money with a bank card!

You might think an international travel card (through your own bank) may suffice, but consider setting up an account through one of Australia’s banks once you arrive.

3. Mobile phone

Smartphones have rapidly become indispensable in our daily lives.

Connecting to an Aussie mobile provider like Telstra, Optus, or Vodafone is really important particularly for contactability.

4. Travel and health insurance

“If you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel overseas.”

These 12 important words are drilled into our minds by the Australian Government’s travel department. Travel insurance is more important than you might realise!

When travelling overseas, whether for work or for play, appropriate insurance is a non-negotiable. So take the time to ensure you apply for the correct cover before you leave.

Many insurance policies start from the moment you purchase, which means you’re covered for unexpected cancellations leading up to your trip.

5. Tax file number

You can’t get paid in Australia without an Australian Tax File Number (TFN).

So after you land, make it a priority to apply for your TFN. It may take up to 28 days to be processed and approved.

You+Aus can supply you with a TFN application form. As soon as you start working with us, tax rates will be deducted from your wages in alignment with Australian tax brackets.

6. Accommodation

Finding somewhere to stay doesn’t have to be a challenge!

There are a ton of online portals helping young people find affordable accommodation all over the country.

Some examples:

• Fairy Floss Real Estate is a Facebook group with more than 100,000 people advertising rooms all across Melbourne
• Get “matched” with ideal flatmates across Australia with Flatmate Finder
• Find housemates on Flatmates.com

Take note of public transport options in your preferred areas (particularly if you do not want to hire a car).

You+ Aus is always happy to help you make sure you get accommodation once you arrive in Australia. It’s important to have a backup plan and a place to stay when your first land, whether that be a hostel or a friend’s place.

7. Get to know our public transport

If hiring a car isn’t for you, take advantage of our great public transport network.

Our widespread network makes it easy to travel around major cities by bus, tram, or train.

Melbourne

To use Melbourne public transport, you must first purchase a myki card and top it up through one of the options below.

myki Money
Top up as you need. Myki money is great for those who use public transport only every so often. myki automatically calculates the lowest fare for your trip.

myki Pass
A myki pass is great if you travel often by public transport. You can purchase a 7-day pass or a pass for anywhere between 28 and 365 days.

Sydney

In Sydney, you must purchase a Opal card or Opal single ticket. Just like myki, you need to top up the card before you use it. You can also use your debit card if you already have one which makes it convenient.

Brisbane

In Brisbane, you can purchase a go card which is easy to top up and use.

Thinking about hiring a car?

Australia is a large country, so if you’re planning any road trips or holidays, you might like to consider hiring a car. Most car rental companies accept overseas licences so you won’t usually need to apply for an Australian one.

8. Get to know our weather

Melbourne in particular is known as the city famous for displaying four seasons in one day.

Always be prepared for extreme changes (think warm and sunny in the morning, and unexpected stormy rains by the afternoon). That means an umbrella and extra layer of clothing will quickly become handbag staples!

Download a local weather app to stay up-to-date on any alerts or warnings (and remember, our summers can get hot!)

Ready? Join You+Aus today!

If you’re ready to begin the next great adventure through nursing in Australia, join You+Aus today! We’re with you every step of the way and will help you get to Australia and find great work. Submit your registration online and if you’ve got any questions, please reach out!