CDA Editorial Team
CDA Coliving
Moving to a new country is one of the biggest life changes you can make, and housing is usually the first hurdle. This checklist gives you a practical, step-by-step path from arrival to keys in hand.
Before you arrive
Sort short-term accommodation for your first two weeks, a furnished room or serviced apartment. That gives you breathing room to inspect long-term places in person. Bring digital copies of your visa, passport, and any reference letters.
Documents to have ready
Most landlords ask for ID, proof of income or savings, and a rental history reference. For students and new arrivals, an offer letter from your university and a co-signer can fill the gap if you don't have local references yet.
The first week
Open a local bank account, get an Australian SIM, and apply for a tax file number. These three steps unlock everything else, including the ability to pay rent and security deposit.
CDA Editorial Team
CDA Coliving
Written and reviewed by the CDA Coliving editorial team. We house 1,500+ residents across Sydney, Queensland and Tasmania, and write from what we hear on the ground in our homes every week.
