Your Financial Journey in Australia Starts Here
Moving to study in Australia brings exciting opportunities—and questions about managing money in a new country. We help international students understand Australian banking, build financial confidence, and make informed decisions about their finances while studying.
Years supporting Tasmanian students
International students guided since 2020
Different countries represented
Setting Up Your Financial Foundation
Most international students arrive with practical questions about opening bank accounts, transferring money from home, and understanding Australian financial systems. Here's what you need to know in your first few weeks.
Opening Your Bank Account
Australian banks offer specific accounts for international students with reduced fees. You can often start the process online before arriving. Bring your passport, student visa, and enrolment confirmation to complete setup in person.
Understanding Account Types
Transaction accounts for daily spending, savings accounts that earn interest, and term deposits for longer-term money. Most students start with just a transaction account and add others as they settle in.
Moving Money from Home
International transfers involve exchange rates and fees that vary between providers. We explain how these work and help you compare options so you keep more of your money when transferring from your home country.
Building Your Budget
Living costs in Australia can surprise newcomers. Rent, groceries, transport, and phone plans add up differently here. We walk through typical expenses for students in Tasmania and help create realistic budgets.
Practical Support Throughout Your Studies
Financial questions don't stop after your first month. We provide ongoing guidance as your situation changes and new questions arise.
- Understanding tax file numbers and why you need one for part-time work
- Navigating superannuation—the retirement savings system that affects student workers
- Managing expenses during semester breaks when you might return home
- Learning about credit scores and building financial history in Australia
- Exploring options if you decide to stay after graduation
Drago Halvorsen
International Student Financial Advisor
Drago moved to Australia for postgraduate studies in 2009 and remembers the confusion of navigating financial systems in a new country. After working in student services for twelve years, he now specializes in helping international students understand Australian banking and financial options.
He speaks Mandarin and Hindi, which helps many students explain complex financial situations in familiar terms.
"The biggest relief for most students comes when they realize Australian banking is actually quite straightforward once you understand the basics. My job is translating those basics into clear steps."
When to Connect with Us
Financial preparation works best when started early. Here's when to reach out based on where you are in your journey to Australia.
Before You Arrive
Three Months Before Departure
Contact us to discuss banking setup options and what financial documents you should bring. We'll explain the process and answer questions about currency exchange and initial funds needed.
First Week in Australia
Initial Arrival Period
Schedule an appointment to complete your bank account setup and discuss immediate financial needs. Bring all required documents and we'll walk through each step together.
After First Month
Financial Review Check-In
Meet to review how your budget is tracking against actual expenses and adjust as needed. This is when many students have specific questions about costs they didn't anticipate.
Before Each Semester
Ongoing Support Sessions
Book regular check-ins to discuss any financial changes, work opportunities, or questions about Australian financial systems as you become more familiar with living here.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you're arriving next semester or already studying in Tasmania, we're here to answer your financial questions and help you feel confident managing money in Australia.