Before You Arrive – Your Guide to Settling in South Australia
A resource created by the community, for the community.
Download a quick checklist below
Let Us Know Before You Arrive
To help us offer personal, direct, one-to-one assistance, please share a few details about your situation before you arrive in South Australia. This helps our team understand your needs and prepare the right support — whether it’s housing guidance, school information, essential services, or community connections.
✈️ Helpful Hints to Make Your Travel Experience Smooth and Enjoyable!
Preparing before your arrival will make your transition to life in South Australia smoother, easier, and less stressful. This section helps you get ready emotionally, logistically, and practically.
01
📄 1. Translate and Organize Important Documents
Make sure all official documents are translated into English by a certified translator:
Passports (including all family members)
Birth certificates
Marriage certificates (if applicable)
Driver’s license (international or home-country)
School records and vaccination cards (for children)
Academic qualifications and transcripts
Employment references or CV (for job seekers)
📁 Tip: Scan and save copies of all documents on a USB and cloud storage (e.g., Google Drive).
02
🛏️ 2. Book Temporary Accommodation
You’ll need a place to stay for your first 2–4 weeks while you explore long-term rental options.
Consider:
Airbnb
Short-term serviced apartments
Staying with friends or community members
📌 Ensure your accommodation is within reach of public transport or Glimmer of Hope activities.
03
🏡 3. Research Where You Want to Live
You’ll need a place to stay for your first 2–4 weeks while you explore long-term rental options.
Consider:
Airbnb
Short-term serviced apartments
Staying with friends or community members
📌 Ensure your accommodation is within reach of public transport or Glimmer of Hope activities.
✅ Suggested suburbs (for newcomers and families):
Campbelltown, Paradise, Klemzig, Morphett Vale, Seaford, Noarlunga
💡 Use: realestate.com.au or domain.com.au
04
🎒 4. Prepare Children’s Schooling Documents
To enroll your child in a South Australian school, you may need the following:
Child’s passport and visa details
Proof of address in South Australia (e.g. rental agreement or utility bill)
Immunisation history (translated if needed)
Previous school reports or records
Birth certificate or identification documents
For more information and to find your local school, visit:
👉 https://www.education.sa.gov.au
05
🤝 5. Reach Out to the Community
Connecting with someone who already lives in South Australia can make a big difference:
Ask if they know rental agents or property managers
Join WhatsApp or Facebook groups
Email Glimmer of Hope to be connected with someone local
✅ This helps overcome the rental application challenges faced by newcomers with no history in Australia.
Bonus Tips
“Reach out to community members before you arrive – they often know trusted rental agents.”
Bonus Tips
“Don’t rush into long-term housing – it’s OK to take 1–2 months to find the right place.”
Bonus Tips
“Buying used furniture? Start with Facebook Marketplace!”