Moving house in Australia checklist for international students is one of those things that seems overwhelming, but a checklist makes it manageable. I’ve moved multiple times, and I’ve watched friends move. Some were organized. Others weren’t. The difference was having a checklist and following it.
Three years later, I’m finishing my Master’s at the University of Melbourne. I’ve moved between share houses, studios, and cities, and I’ve learned what to do and when. Some things are obvious. Others are easy to forget. The difference was having a checklist.
So here’s everything I know about moving house in Australia, based on what actually needs to be done.
Before Moving: What to Do
Let me start with this, because preparation makes moving easier.
Give notice: if you’re leaving a rental, give proper notice (usually 2 to 4 weeks). Check your lease for requirements.
Find new accommodation: start searching early, and secure new accommodation before moving.
Pack: pack your belongings, and label boxes. Don’t leave packing to the last minute.
But here’s what I’ve learned: preparation is key. Give notice, find new accommodation, and pack early. Don’t leave things to the last minute.
Organizing Your Move: Practical Steps
This is the practical part, and here’s how to organize it.
Book movers or van: if you need help, book movers or rent a van early. Popular times book up quickly.
Change address: update your address with bank, university, and other important places.
Cancel or transfer bills: cancel bills at old address, or transfer them to new address.
But here’s what I’ve learned: organizing takes time. Book movers early, change your address, and handle bills. Don’t leave it to the last minute.
Cleaning and Final Checks: Before You Leave
This is important, because cleaning affects your bond.
Clean thoroughly: clean the property, and fix any damage. This helps you get your bond back.
Take photos: take photos of the property when you leave. This helps if there are disputes.
Return keys: return keys to the landlord or agent, and get a receipt.
But here’s what I’ve learned: cleaning and final checks are important. Clean thoroughly, take photos, and return keys. It helps you get your bond back.
Setting Up New Place: What to Do
This is after moving, and here’s what to do.
Set up utilities: connect electricity, gas, water, and internet at your new address.
Unpack: unpack your belongings, and set up your new place.
Update address: make sure your address is updated everywhere.
But here’s what I’ve learned: setting up takes time. Connect utilities, unpack, and update your address. Don’t forget to update your address everywhere.
What to Bring: Essentials Checklist
This is practical, and here’s what to bring or buy.
Essentials include: bedding, kitchen basics, cleaning supplies, and personal items.
Don’t bring: things you don’t need, or things that are easy to buy here.
But here’s what I’ve learned: bring essentials, but don’t bring everything. You can buy things here. Focus on essentials, and buy other things as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much notice do I need to give?
Usually 2 to 4 weeks, but check your lease. Give proper notice, and follow lease requirements.
How do I get my bond back?
Clean the property, fix any damage, and return keys. You’ll usually get bond back within a few weeks if the property is in good condition.
What if I can’t move everything?
Consider selling or donating things you don’t need, or hiring movers. Don’t try to move everything if you don’t need it.
How do I change my address?
Update with bank, university, and other important places. Don’t forget to update your address everywhere.
What if I’m moving between cities?
Plan ahead. Moving between cities takes more planning. Book transport early, and plan your move carefully.
How much does moving cost?
It varies. If you do it yourself, costs are lower. If you hire movers, costs are higher. Budget accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Moving house in Australia: give notice, find new accommodation, pack, organize your move, clean thoroughly, set up utilities, and update your address. Use a checklist, and don’t leave things to the last minute. Moving takes time and effort, but a checklist makes it manageable.
Don’t leave things to the last minute. Moving takes planning and effort. Use a checklist, give notice early, and organize everything. It makes moving easier and less stressful.
I’ve made plenty of mistakes since landing in Melbourne, but each one taught me something. The biggest lesson? Use a checklist. Moving takes planning and effort. Use a checklist, give notice early, organize everything, and don’t leave things to the last minute. It makes moving easier.
If you’re still moving, use a checklist, give notice early, and organize everything. Don’t leave things to the last minute. Moving takes time and effort, but a checklist makes it manageable. Take your time, and follow your checklist.