Setting Up Your Life in Sydney
Essential Services
Healthcare, Transportation, and Banking
All the Essentials For Sydney Living
Moving to a bustling city like Sydney can feel like an exciting adventure—and a bit of a whirlwind. From setting up healthcare to mastering public transport and sorting out your finances, there’s a lot to navigate. This guide breaks down Sydney’s essential services, giving you everything you need to settle in smoothly and start enjoying all the city has to offer.
A Healthy Start to Your New Chapter
Healthcare in Sydney
Sydney’s healthcare system is among the best in Australia, offering a mix of public and private services to meet diverse needs. Public hospitals such as Royal Prince Alfred and St Vincent’s provide excellent care, while private facilities like the Mater Hospital offer shorter wait times and more personalised treatments. No matter your preference, Sydney has options to suit every lifestyle and budget.
Navigating Services & Insurance
Public or Private?
Navigating the choice between public and private healthcare depends on individual preferences, financial considerations, and healthcare needs. New arrivals should explore private health insurance options, considering factors such as coverage, cost, and additional benefits.
Covering All Bases
Medicare & Health Insurance
Australia’s public health system, Medicare, covers many basic medical services for citizens and permanent residents. However, it’s not all-inclusive. Private health insurance fills in the gaps, offering extras like dental care, elective surgeries, and quicker access to specialists.
Note for newcomers: International students and temporary visa holders must secure health insurance, such as OSHC, for students. Expats might also want to consider private insurance for additional coverage.
Emergency Care to Specialist Support
Allied Healthcare Services
From physiotherapy to mental health support, Sydney places a strong emphasis on holistic well-being. With an abundance of allied health professionals, including psychologists, chiropractors, and nutritionists, you’ll have no trouble finding the right support. Familiarising yourself with local general practitioners (GPs) and specialists will also help ensure comprehensive care.
Sydney’s Lifeline
Public Transport
Sydney’s train system is efficient and extensive, covering the CBD and extending to suburban hubs like Parramatta and Chatswood. Ferries, on the other hand, offer not just a practical commute but also a scenic way to travel. Whether you’re heading to Manly Beach or enjoying the sights from Circular Quay, ferry rides are quintessentially Sydney.
Sydney's light rail system connects key hubs, such as the CBD, Pyrmont, and Randwick, offering a smooth and modern way to get around. Complementing this is the new Sydney Metro, Australia’s first fully automated rapid transit system, which currently connects the Northwest region to the CBD, with future extensions planned to link areas like Parramatta and the Western Sydney Airport. Together with Sydney’s comprehensive bus network, these services ensure that every part of the city—be it the heart of the CBD or the outer suburbs—is easily accessible.
A Ride Like No Other
Ride-Sharing & Taxis
Uber and other ride-sharing services are popular and readily available throughout the city, including at Sydney Airport. If you prefer traditional taxis, they’re easy to hail or book. For airport transfers, consider the Sydney Airport Train—fast, reliable, and directly connected to the city’s transport network.
Explore Australia with Ease
Travelling Beyond Sydney
Heading to Melbourne, Brisbane or Canberra? Sydney Domestic Airport offers frequent flights to all major Australian cities, with departures every 10-15 minutes during peak times, making air travel the quickest and most convenient option.
For international journeys to places like Auckland, London or Dublin, Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport provides connections to destinations around the globe, cementing Sydney as a gateway to the world.
If you're exploring regional New South Wales, NSW TrainLink services offer easy access from Sydney's Central Station to charming towns, wine regions, and stunning coastal escapes.
Setting Up Your Financial Home
Banking & Finances
Australia's banking system is modern, secure and user-friendly. Sydney hosts major banks like Commonwealth Bank, Westpac, ANZ, and NAB, each offering a range of personal and business banking services. From setting up an account to managing international transfers, these institutions ensure smooth financial transitions for newcomers.
Settling Your Finances in Sydney
Opening a bank account is simple. Many banks let you do it online or in person. All you’ll need is identification (like your passport) and proof of address. Some banks even allow you to set up an account before you arrive, making your move smoother.
Tip for Expats: Check out Commonwealth Bank for its vast ATM network or ANZ if you need international banking options.
The Next Steps