Leaving Melbourne checklist

When you came to Melbourne as an international student you probably expected to be in the minority, and that making friends would take some time. So returning home should be easy you have your friends and family there, and you know the culture. But remember, just as you have changed, so have things at home, and the environment may not be as familiar as you expect.

When you return home, you may have similar emotions to those you experienced when you first arrived in Australia. You will look forward to catching up with family and friends, and eating home-cooked meals.

Just as your emotions in Australia fluctuated, there will be ups and downs back home too. The picture of home that you have carried in your head while in Australia may not be quite as realistic as you think! While in Australia, you may have experienced different levels of personal freedom, developed new relationships, and changed your views on your future employment. So be prepared for emotional highs and lows, excitement and disappointment, and you adjustment phase should be a lot easier.

TO DO

Participate in the VU Farewell Program titled 'Your Next Steps'
Check regulations for sending and taking goods back to your home country
Have any vaccinations recommended by the doctor
Check with the doctor to ensure that any medications you are currently using are available in your home country
Return any borrowed items e.g. books, videos, furniture or household items

VISAS, APPLICATIONS AND FORMS

Apply to graduate
Apply for your degree and academic transcript to be forwarded to you
Ensure that your visa is valid for any extended stay in Australia
Complete and hand in the relevant taxation return forms or superannuation entitlements

CONTACT DETAILS

Ensure that the University has your correct name and home address for mailing items to you

USEFUL WEBSITES TO SUPPORT YOUR MOVE

Moving hints and tips: www.movingservices.com.au/plan _your_move/
Organising utility accounts: www.movingservices.com.au /Organise_utility_accounts/Dis _Con_utilities/
Managing your mail: www.movingservices.com.au /manage_your_mail/

TIMELINE OF TASKS

Six weeks before departure:

Start making arrangements to book your flight home. If you plan on visiting any other countries on your way home, make sure you have the correct visa for that country if required
Start sorting through your possessions and decide what you want to take home, sell, advertise for sale,give away or donate to charities
If you have children, notify the school or childcare centre when you will be leaving

One month before departure:

Give 28 days notice to your landlord or housemates

One week before departure:

Request a final bill or a reading from the gas, electricity, phone and water companies
Ensure housemates have your correct home address for returning mail
Redirect your mail (do this at any post office)

At time of departure:

Clean your property and complete the Condition Report
Arrange for your accommodation premises to be inspected before returning the keys and request the return of your bond
Ensure that you and your landlord have signed a Bond Claim Form and the landlord has mailed it to the Bond Authority, or you have signed a Bond Transfer Form and mailed it to the Bond Authority

FINANCIAL MATTERS

Finalise all accounts including those to the University. Ensure that all library fines, student loans and accommodation fees are paid. Any debts to the University will prevent you from receiving your results or obtaining your degree
Pay for academic transcripts at the Student Service Centres if you do not take advantage of the free period
Submit any OSHC claims that are still outstanding.
Identify the various companies that can freight things home for you and the costs of these services
Arrange for the refund of any accommodation bond owing to you
Close your bank account in Australia once all refunds are received or organise alternative banking arrangements to keep your account open
Check that the bank has your permanent address for mailing

GOODBYES AND TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS

Make sure you make time to say farewell to friends and University staff
Perhaps buy souvenirs for family and friends at home
Advised anyone of your arrival details
Make arrangements for transport to the airport on the day of your departure