Setting Up Your First Home in Australia – A Simple Guide for New Arrivals

Setting up your first home in Australia is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming when everything is new. Different stores, different prices, unfamiliar appliances and new living styles can make your first week feel a little confusing.

This guide helps you settle in smoothly, comfortably and confidently, without the stress of running around for forgotten essentials or wasting money on things you do not need.

Whether you are moving into student accommodation, a shared house or your own apartment, here is everything you should know.

1. Understanding Australian Homes

Most Australian rentals are unfurnished unless you are in student accommodation. This usually means your home will not include:

• Bedding
• Kitchen tools
• Bathroom basics
• Storage items
• Cleaning essentials

Knowing what is and is not included makes your first week much smoother.

2. Bedroom Setup Essentials

Your bedroom is the space where you rest, recharge and feel grounded. Getting this right helps your whole transition feel better and more organised.

Bedding

• Fitted sheet
• Flat sheet
• Pillow and pillowcases
• Blanket or quilt
• Mattress protector

Note: Australian bed sizes can differ from other countries. Check whether your bed is Single, Double, Queen or King before buying anything.

Small comforts that help you feel at home

• A lamp
• Hangers
• Laundry basket
• Extra pillow
• Soft throw

Tone must remain supportive, not sales-heavy.

If collecting all these items one by one feels frustrating or time consuming, many newcomers prefer having their essentials organised before arriving.

SettleBox SmartPacks include bedroom, bathroom and kitchen basics that make your first week more comfortable and less stressful.

Exploring pre-packed essentials can take a lot of pressure off your move-in day.

3. Bathroom Setup Essentials

Arriving without bathroom basics can create unnecessary stress, especially after a long flight.

Towels

• One or two bath towels
• One or two hand towels

Hygiene essentials

• Handwash
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Body wash
• Skincare items

Basic necessities

• Toilet paper
• Garbage bags
• Cleaning wipes
• Toilet brush

Most homes do not provide these, so having them prepared in advance is helpful.

4. Kitchen Setup Essentials

Cooking becomes difficult without the basics, and buying everything after arrival can be overwhelming.

Tools and utensils

• Frypan
• Saucepan
• Tongs
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Can opener
• Serving spoon
• Spatula

Tableware

• Dinner plate
• Side plate
• Bowl
• Mug
• Glass
• Cutlery

Small items newcomers often forget

• Tea towel
• Dish sponge
• Detergent
• Leftover container
• Storage clips or zip bags

Having these from day one makes it easier to cook simple meals and avoid expensive takeaway.5.

5. Smart Shopping Tips for Newcomers

Here are simple ways to avoid overspending or buying unnecessary things:

• Start with essentials
• Buy only what you need for the first month
• Keep packaging and receipts
• Choose items that match your space
• Avoid buying too much too soon

Setting up slowly and thoughtfully helps you budget better.

6. Making Your Space Feel Like Home

A few small touches can transform your room and help you feel settled emotionally.

• Add one or two cushions
• Use warm lighting
• Place a small plant
• Add a soft rug
• Use a scent you like (if allowed)
• Keep your space organised

Your home environment has a big impact on how quickly you adjust to your new life.

7. First Week Home Checklist

Once you move in, here are things to check:

• Test your appliances
• Find rubbish and recycling days
• Locate your nearest supermarket
• Set up your WiFi and SIM
• Save emergency numbers
• Understand how your windows and doors lock
• Introduce yourself to housemates or neighbours (optional)

Getting organised early helps your first week feel smoother and less overwhelming.

8. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common newcomer challenges:

• Buying too many items too soon
• Forgetting cleaning supplies
• Not checking bed size
• Skipping a mattress protector
• Eating takeaway every day
• Leaving essentials for later when you are tired

Being prepared saves you stress, time and money.