Melbourne Arrival
Ok, so you've made it Melbourne! Time to discover the beaches and pubs, right? Although this should definitely be a priority, here are a few items that need to be addressed as soon as possible, so you can get working!
Mobile Phone
If you have opted to leave your cell phone in Canada, you will need to pick one up so we can contact you for teaching work. One of the more popular choices is to purchase a phone and pay as you go. Bring your passport and address to any phone supplier and pick one out!
Bank Account
If you would like to get paid for all your hard work as a CRT, you need to have a bank account set up immediately. Once you have selected the bank that is right for you, bring in your passport, driver's license and current address to the bank to have an account set up. The debit-credit cards are a nice option for travellers. It works as a debit card that you can use to purchase items online, such as flights. Ask the bank for your BSB and Account number and bring this with you to your Melbourne Registration. .
Tax File Number
A Tax File Number is just like your Canadian Social Insurance Number and will set you up on the Australian tax system. It allows you to claim a lower tax amount through ANZUK. You must be in Australia to apply for this and it can be done online through the Australian Taxation Office.
Short Term Accomodation
When you first arrive, most teachers choose to stay in a hostel. You can expect to pay $25 - $33 per night for a dorm. It is a good idea to pick a hostel before you arrive and book it for a week. The Skybus will usually drop you off at the door. To view a list of recommended hostels, visit our Useful Links page.
Long Term Acconmodation
Rental apartments are not usually too difficult to find in Melbourne, if you know where to look and have some help. Recommended suburbs include: Fitzroy, North Melbourne, Kensington, Southbank, Richmond, Sotuh Melbourne, Footscray, and in the city centre itself. Expect to pay at least $650 to $800 per month for a decent place, located centrally. Given the pay rate for CRT's, this should be easily affordable. The most important thing to remember is the more centrally located you are, the better off your chances of finding regular work. More information can be found in our Useful Links page.
