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Apply for a Medicare card free of charge and you will be able to access hospital and medical services for the duration of your stay in Australia. Medicare covers care at certain public medical institutions, providing treatment by doctors, specialists and occasionally dentists and other health practitioners.

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It is always a little overwhelming choosing from the seemingly infinite options available in the way of mobile phone contracts. I was lucky enough to receive a recommendation to opt for a Vodafone contract, which has proved very useful during my stay so far.

I chose a SIM only contract, which costs $42.25 a month and includes unlimited national calls, unlimited texts in Australia and overseas, unlimited international calls in selected countries , 90 International minutes to selected countries and 4GB data per month. This contract can be terminated at any time, making it ideal for backpackers, students .

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One of the first things on my to-do list (and perhaps the least appealing) upon arriving in Australia was to set up a bank account. I was directed towards Commonwealth Bank as a good choice for backpackers. You can open an account 3 months in advance, picking up your card from a branch when you arrive. In addition, Commonwealth has an online app, which makes managing your accounts and transferring money incredibly quick and easy.

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Located right across the road from Flinders St Station in Central Melbourne is Federation Square, better known as Fed Square. It’s an entertainment and cultural centre which you should make sure to visit. The main attraction here is the Australian Centre for the Moving Image which is full of hands on exhibits and is definitely worth spending a couple of hours in. Fed Square is also where you’ll encounter a part of the National Gallery of Victoria called the Ian Potter Centre which is the world’s first major gallery dedicated exclusively to Australian art. When you’re here you might even be lucky enough to be treated to some free entertainment. It’s also good to note that free WiFi is available throughout the entire square.

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When people say Melbourne experiences ‘four seasons in one day’, believe them! The weather can fluctuate daily from sunny and warm to rainy and cold. Melbourne begins to warm up in December, with a dry heat that usually lasts until February. June and July are known as being the coldest, whilst October usually experiences the most rainfall.

The changeable weather is just one of the many things which makes Melbourne unique, so pack for all weather conditions and be prepared for every eventuality.

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1. There are two main modes of public transport

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1. There are two main modes of public transport

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There are two main modes of public transport in Melbourne. First of all you’ve got trains which serve both inner and outer suburbs. Secondly, and more famously, are the city’s trams which can be seen transporting people all over the city. By far the most popular tram though, is the free City Circle tram. This tram, which is route number 35, loops the CBD stopping at or close to many of the city’s best known attractions. Along with this free tram there is also a free shuttle bus in operation.

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Melbourne is one of the most incredible cities in Australia, but it’s also somewhat of a mystery to those who have never been. Australia’s second largest city is home to beautiful architecture, wondrous art and delicious food. All over Melbourne you’ll find culture, and hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. To help you out a little, here are 5 facts about Melbourne you should know before going!