Arriving in Australia: Airports, Transport and Getting Around

Touching down in Australia is exciting, and knowing what to expect makes the first few hours effortless. From immigration to your first ride into the city, here is how arrival day usually unfolds and how to get around once you are there.

On the plane

You will usually receive an Incoming Passenger Card during the flight. Fill it in carefully and honestly, especially the questions about food, plant material and animal products. Keep your passport and a pen within reach.

At the airport

After landing you will clear immigration, collect your bags and pass through biosecurity. Many passport holders can use automated SmartGates, while others go to a manual counter. Biosecurity is strict about food and natural items, so declare anything you are unsure about — declaring is never a problem, but undeclared items can lead to penalties. Major gateways such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth are well signposted and easy to navigate.

Getting from the airport

Trains, airport shuttles, taxis and rideshare services connect the main airports to city centres. In Sydney and Brisbane a direct train is the quickest way in, while shuttles are handy if your accommodation is off the main routes. Taxi ranks and rideshare pick-up zones are clearly marked outside the terminals.

Travelling between cities

Given the country’s size, domestic flights are the fastest way to cover long distances, such as Sydney to Perth or Melbourne to Cairns. For shorter hops and scenic journeys, long-distance trains and coaches are comfortable options, and renting a car or campervan opens up the coast and countryside. Australians drive on the left, and distances between towns can be long, so plan fuel and rest stops.

Getting around town

Australian cities have reliable public transport, usually paid with a city travel card or a contactless bank card. Walking, cycling and ferries are great ways to explore compact centres, and Sydney’s harbour ferries double as a scenic tour.

Your first day

Jet lag is real after a long-haul flight. Get outside in daylight, stay hydrated and keep your first day light. Pick up a local SIM or activate an eSIM at the airport if you need mobile data straight away.

Before you fly

Arrival is smoothest when your paperwork is already sorted, so make sure your visitor visa is arranged before departure. You can apply for your eVisitor visa online ahead of time, and for the rest of your planning see our complete guide to traveling to Australia. Ready now? Start your online eVisitor application.