Arriving and settling in
New UTS airport reception services
Lounge Link
UTS International now offers a complimentary airport shuttle service from the airport to either UTS or a convenient CBD location. Lounge Link is available to new international students who arrive between 30 January and 14 February 2012.
When you exit the Terminal 1 Arrivals Hall, look for the Travel Concierge desk. You will see a UTS Link Lounge banner. The friendly staff will give you a complimentary UTS welcome pack and organise your transport on the next available shuttle. All you will need to do is show the staff a copy of your UTS COE (Confirmation of Enrolment) and passport to confirm your identity and university place. You may even meet some other UTS students on your trip!
If you have not already organised temporary accommodation, the Travel Concierge can assist you with this and book on your behalf.
Connections Lounge
UTS International is pleased to advise that we now offer the Connections Lounge at UTS; a space to relax, recharge and make your important first connections with other UTS students on arrival. You can enjoy refreshments and snacks while you gather key information to help you kickstart your journey at UTS.
Connections Lounge will be open between 8 am and 3 pm weekdays from 30 January and 13 February 2012. Find Connections Lounge at the UTS Tower, Building 1, Level 3A.
We look forward to seeing you there !
Transport and accommodation
Travel Concierge staff at Lounge Link can help you find and book temporary accommodation when you arrive.
If you’re not able to arrive between January 30 and February 13 and utilise the complimentary shuttle service, there are some other transport options available to you.
You can take the train directly from the airport to the city for A$15.80. Central Railway Station is near the UTS City campus and all Sydney train lines connect at Central.
Alternatively, you can take a taxi which will cost between A$15 and A$50 depending on the length of ride. There are also privately run minibuses to take people to inner-city hotels. Ask at the desk for assistance.
Money
It is a good idea to have sufficient funds ready for the first few weeks of your stay.
You can change money at the airport. You may receive a better rate in the city so only change enough to last you a few days.
Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) are available at the Sydney Airport, and throughout Sydney.
Safety
Sydney is a fairly safe city; however, you should be aware of your surroundings especially if you travel at night. You should make sure you keep all you belongings in a secure place and do not leave them unattended. If you travel at night by public transport, it is best to travel with someone or wait in well lit areas when waiting for the bus, train or ferry.
If you need to contact the Police, Ambulance or Fire Department you should call 000 any time of the day or night. You can call this number from any phone free of charge.
Safety on campus - 24 Hour Emergency Number
UTS has 24-hour security staff patrolling at both the City and the Kuring-gai campuses.
In an emergency, you can dial 6 from any campus phone (there are some in the common areas too) or 1800 249 559 from any phone to contact Security. Program this number into your mobile phone. You can, and should ask for help at any time if for any reason you feel unsafe or unsure of your surroundings.
Carry the Safe at UTS card with you. You can pick one up from the International Student Centre.
Safety off campus
While you make the most of your time in Sydney, trying new activities and experiences, it’s important to keep these safety tips in mind.
On the Beach
Swim only between the flags on patrolled beaches. Do not swim at night, and remember to wear sunscreen!
Surf Life Saving (opens an external site).
Bushwalking
Inform someone if you set off on a bushwalk and make sure you take a map, plenty of water, wet weather gear, warm clothes and a phone. It is preferable to walk with a few friends and take an emergency beacon, available from camping stores. Always inform someone of where you are going and when you intend to be back.
Staying safe in national parks (opens an external site), Environment, Climate Change and Water Department, NSW.
Driving and alcohol
In Australia, it's illegal to have more than a small amount of alcohol before driving. Don’t drink and drive or get into a car with a driver who has been drinking. Share a taxi home instead. To learn more about blood alcohol limits for drivers, visit:
Blood alcohol limits (opens an external site), Road and Traffic Authority, NSW.
