Moving to a new country on your own can feel intimidating, new housing, new internship, new routines. The good news? Australia is famous for its friendly and welcoming culture. Here are some practical tips to help you make friends and feel at home quickly.

1. Start with a simple “hi”, Australians are friendly

People in Australia are generally open and relaxed. Whether it’s at the office coffee machine, in a bar, or even while waiting in line, a simple “Hey, how’s it going?” can spark a conversation.
👉 Tip: Ask about hobbies, sports, or travel, they’re always popular topics here.

2. Get involved at your internship or school

Your workplace is one of the best places to connect. Invite colleagues for lunch or join any social events organised by the company.
👉 Tip: If you’re connected with a school or student program, join their international student activities too.

3. Join clubs and community groups

Sports, yoga, surfing, hiking, music, dance… Australia is full of clubs and community groups that welcome newcomers at all levels.
👉 Tip: Check out Meetup and Facebook Groups to discover local events.

4. Connect with international communities

Australia’s big cities host thousands of students and interns from around the world. International meetups or language exchanges are perfect to meet people living the same adventure as you.
👉 Tip: Search for “Language Exchange” or “International Student Meetups” in your city.

5. Say yes to invitations

Even if it feels a bit out of your comfort zone, accept that afterwork drink, weekend barbecue, or spontaneous road trip. Those moments often turn into lasting friendships.
👉 Tip: Don’t limit yourself to your native language circles, branching out will make your experience richer.

6. Try social apps for friends

Beyond Tinder or Bumble (which also has a “BFF” option), apps like Patook or Friender are designed to connect people looking for new friendships. Perfect if you’ve arrived alone and want to build your circle quickly.

Building a social network in Australia takes a bit of initiative, but the country’s relaxed and multicultural vibe makes it much easier. By staying open, joining activities, and saying yes to new experiences, you’ll quickly create a circle of friends that turns your stay into an unforgettable adventure.