How can international students find their way around in Australia by using public transport system?

Are you about to embark on a study-abroad adventure in Australia? Congratulations! It's an exciting time, full of new experiences and opportunities. But, let's face it - navigating a new city can be overwhelming, especially when you're in a foreign country. From figuring out public transportation to finding the nearest grocery store, it can all feel like an uphill battle.

But here's the good news: you're not alone. Almost every international student goes through this adjustment period, and it's perfectly normal to feel anxious.

That's why we've created this blog - to help you feel confident as you explore your new city in Australia. We've compiled a list of tips and recommendations to make the transition easier, so you can focus on enjoying your new surroundings and making the most of your study abroad experience. So, let's dive in!

Research articles

Reading and researching your new city before travelling to a foreign nation is essential.

You can study up on what transportation options are available in the area you're relocating to and the restrictions for using the public transportation system thanks to the abundance of information that is easily accessible online.

As travelling is a requirement of living abroad and because many foreign students won't have access to private transportation, it's important to get used to using public transportation as soon as you arrive.

Because different nations and towns adhere to different frameworks and schedules, public transportation might be difficult to understand at first.

Set up your travel card

The public transportation services vary from nation to nation and state to state. Every major city in Australia has its own system. For instance, the travel card is referred to as the Go card in Brisbane and the Myki card in Melbourne.

You can top off your travel card online, at the main bus, train, or tram terminals, or at any 7/11 location. Using a travel card makes sense because it's quicker, more practical, and less expensive than buying bus tickets each time you go somewhere.

To use the public transportation system in cities like Melbourne in Victoria, you must obtain a trip card because you cannot pay your fare to the driver directly or buy temporary permits.

Familiarise yourself with the various forms of public transportation.

Buses, trains, ferries, and trams are the several forms of public transportation in Australia, and each one utilises a somewhat different system to track fares. You must tap on the bus when you enter and tap off when you exit in order for the trip to be charged to your travel card. Similar to buses, trams and ferries may not force you to tap off during rush hours because doing so can cause traffic backups. To avoid confusion and potential fines, it is advisable to double-check the tap-on/tap-off regulations when setting up your travel card.

There are platforms with appropriate equipment near or at the entrances and exits of train stations where you tap on and off. Some train stops require you to tap on and off to enter, while others have more open entrance. Whatever the case, it's crucial to keep in mind that you must tap in and tap off in order to avoid receiving a fine because inspectors may examine your travel card. It's important that you check on the relevant public transportation websites for your city or at any significant train, tram, bus, or ferry stations as travel fees can vary.

Get your student discount

There are several benefits that come with going to college. Student discount cards are at the top of the list. Public transportation is one of the many student discounts available in Australia.

This entitles you to reduced rates on public transportation while you are a student. It is important to confirm with your university that you are eligible for a concession as certain states have restrictions on the kinds of programmes and institutions that can receive discounted transportation.

Create an account and submit a student concession application if you are qualified for discounted public transportation.

Learn the schedules for public transportation

Downloading the app is the easiest way to check your public transportation schedule and keep track of the bus, tram, rail, and ferry numbers and names that are close to you.

It is simple to navigate because the timings and schedules are constantly displayed at the stations, tram stops, and bus stops.

The app is helpful when travelling and will also display a route map. If you'd like, you can use Google Maps as a GPS to get directions from the rail, tram, or bus stop to your precise location.

Conclusion

We hope that the tips and recommendations we've provided in this blog have helped you feel more confident about navigating your new city in Australia. Remember, getting lost and feeling overwhelmed are all part of the adjustment process, but with a little patience and practice, you'll soon feel like a local.

Using public transportation can be intimidating at first, but the more you use it, the more comfortable you'll become. And who knows - you might even discover new parts of the city you wouldn't have seen otherwise.

If you have any further questions or doubts, or if you're interested in enrolling in a top Australian university, don't hesitate to reach out to us at MWT Education Consultancy. Our experienced counsellors are here to help you every step of the way, from choosing the right program to navigating the visa process. We're dedicated to helping you achieve your study abroad dreams and make the most of this incredible opportunity.