Arriving in a new country is full of excitement and unknowns. From navigating your way through a new metro system, finding the best places to eat, to choosing the right bank to place your money. We have put together a list of Apps to download to help ease your first few weeks in Australia.
Location
Google Maps: In Australia, punctuality is very important. Google Maps will give you the fastest route options (including Ferry, train and bus) and shows exactly where you are in the city, without the risk of being lost. You can also use it for finding close shops, pubs and restaurants.
Language
Google Translate: This App is very useful for those emergencies when we need to ask a question and we can’t remember a word, or when we don’t understand what the locals are saying.
Duolingo: A great way of learning a new language. The app provides a variety of modules and categories to improve your English when in Australia.
Money
XE Currency: It is important that you know the exchange rate in Australia. XE Currency will help you with real-time money comparisons, so you can understand how much the dollar is compared to your currency.
Banking: Almost every bank in Australia offers mobile banking apps where you can easily access your accounts and manage your money. Payments can be made with your bank card through the contactless technology known as “tap and go” or with your mobile device by paying in store, splitting restaurant bills or sending money to friends easily via their phone number.
Commonwealth Bank, Westpac, ANZ and NAB are the most common institutions with the best online services.
Public Transport
Opal Card: The Opal Card and App to use daily in Sydney for public transport. You can recharge the card through the App and it will let you know where to take the bus and when to get off.
Myki Pass: This pass is from Melbourne city and like in Sydney, you will use it for all public transport.
MyTranslink: It is the application for the GoCard that is the Queensland pass. If you want to take a train from Brisbane to Gold Coast, this is a very good alternative.
Trip view: There is a free and Paid version for this app. Trip View can help you plan trips and follow updates in real time for the train, bus, ferry, light rail or coach services in Sydney and Melbourne.
Accommodation
Gumtree: An online trading platform and App where you can find types of accommodation such as property for rent, room share or house share all over Australia. It is also very useful for selling and/or buying great items to furnish your home cheaply due to the high amount of travellers across Australia.
Airbnb: The worldwide platform and App where you can arrange or offer lodging, primarily homestays or tourism experiences.
Phone
Vodafone, Optus and Telstra are the most popular phone networks in Australia. Once you have chosen a mobile network, download the app of your mobile operator to check your credit and recharge quickly and easily.
Jobs
Gumtree: is also great to find job listings in different industries and areas all over Australia. It is easy to use, and you can just send your resume to the opportunities you are interested in, any day and anytime.
Seek: Large online job site to find available jobs across every industry sector in the whole country.
Indeed: Website and App to help you find a job. It is wise to update your CV specifically for a job or industry. It can also show you other people’s resumes so that you have an idea of what Australian companies are expecting from a professional.
Food
Menulog, Deliveroo and UberEats: Food on demand is increasingly popular in the major cities of Australia especially when you have nothing in your refrigerator. Many of our students also work as delivery drivers as you can choose your own hours and work when its peak hour for extra income.
Travel
Skyscanner: Is a worldwide travel fare website and App. It is useful to plan short or long trips in case you want to explore the Australian territory.
Momondo: It is a free online travel search engine, which also offers transportation services and hotels.
Let us know any other apps you have found useful in Australia and we can add it to the list.
Our team of student advisors can help you in choosing the best city to live in Australia based on your preferences and needs. Get in contact with us at info@puravidastudy.com.au.
Georgia Carajeleascov
A nature lover and curious at heart always looking for the next trip and cultures to see. A marketing specialist with digital and strategy skills, helping brands to develop their soul and presence.