As one of Australia’s most vibrant and multicultural cities, Melbourne attracts students from all over the globe. Whether you're arriving from overseas or travelling domestically, we want to make sure your arrival is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

To help you get started, it’s useful to understand the airports that service Melbourne and Victoria and how to find your way to your student city or nearby destinations.

Victoria has 2 main airports for passenger flights:

1. Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine): This is Melbourne's main airport, where most international and domestic flights arrive and depart.
2. Avalon Airport: Located near Geelong, this airport primarily connects Melbourne with other Australian cities like Sydney, Adelaide and the Gold Coast.

Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine)

Melbourne Airport, sometimes called Tullamarine by locals, is the city’s primary international airport. It’s a convenient gateway for international and domestic travellers.

Melbourne Airport is conveniently located 20 kilometres north-west of Melbourne's Central Business District (CBD), making it the closest airport to the city. The airport is well-connected to the city centre and metrolpolitan airport through the Tullamarine Freeway, offering quick and easy access by bus, taxi, ride-share, or car.

Getting to and from Melbourne Airport

You can easily travel to and from Melbourne Airport by car, taxi, or bus.

Bus services

1. SkyBus: Offers a seamless bus connection to Melbourne city with frequent services between Melbourne Airport and Southern Cross train station in Melbourne’s city centre.
2. Free Shuttle Bus: 24/7 service between the Value Car Park and airport terminals.
3. Private Shuttles: Connect passengers to the surrounding off-airport car parks and hotels.
4. Public Buses: Timetabled services operated by Public Transport Victoria (PTV).
5. Regional and Charter Buses: Direct services to regional destinations like Geelong.

For detailed bus schedules, fares and ticket information, visit the Melbourne Airport website.

Taxis

Taxis are located outside all airport terminal exits, with clear signage directing passengers to designated taxi queuing areas. Melbourne taxis are fully registered and operate under strict guidelines to ensure safety and fair pricing.

How taxi fares work:

1. Flagfall (starting fee): A fixed charge applied when your journey starts.
2. Distance charges: Additional fees calculated based on the kilometres travelled at set rates.

Taxis are a great option if you prefer a direct route to your destination or need additional room for luggage.

Rideshare services

Melbourne Airport makes it easy to use rideshare services like Uber, DiDi, and Shebah. Dedicated pick-up and drop-off zones are available at all terminals, making it a flexible and affordable option for many travellers.

How rideshare works:

• Book through the app: Download and use the rideshare app of your choice to request a ride.
• Get directions to your Pickup Zone: The app will provide step-by-step instructions for locating your driver. Melbourne Airport has clearly marked Pickup Zones to make access easier.

For more details on rideshare fees or other information, visit the official Melbourne Airport Rideshare page.

Driving to Melbourne Airport

If you're driving to Melbourne Airport, be aware that some parts of the Tullamarine Freeway require toll payment.

Prepare ahead:

• Use the Toll Calculator on the CityLink website to see if toll fees apply to your route.
• You can pre-pay tolls by purchasing a pass online before you travel. Visit the Passes page for more information.

By planning ahead and purchasing a toll pass, you'll enjoy a seamless drive to and from Melbourne Airport.

Avalon Airport - navigating domestic travel as an international student

As an international student, Avalon Airport can be a great choice for domestic travel within Australia, with flights to major Australian cities such as Sydney, Adelaide  and the Gold Coast. This makes it an ideal gateway for exploring the diverse landscapes and cities of Australia during weekends or holiday breaks.

Getting to and from Avalon Airport

Avalon Airport offers several transport options to accommodate different needs:

Bus services

• SkyBus: A reliable airport shuttle from Southern Cross station in Melbourne’s CBD and from Werribee.
• Local and regional transport options: Services like MyBus Airport Transfers link Avalon to Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula, and the Surf Coast. Pre-booking is required.

Taxi and rideshare services

Taxis are readily available, with services like Geelong Taxi Network, 13 CABS, and Black & White Cabs providing seamless connections.

Rideshare services such as Uber also operate at Avalon Airport. Check pick-up/drop-off locations and confirm fees directly with your service provider.

For updated information on transport services, timetables, and pricing, visit the official Avalon Airport website.

Driving to Avalon Airport

Driving is an easy option, with toll-free roads providing access from Melbourne, Geelong and surrounding areas:

• 25 minutes to/from Geelong CBD.
• 50 minutes to/from Melbourne CBD.

Parking is simple, with designated pick-up and drop-off zones located close to the terminals.

Start your study journey and stay connected through Melbourne’s airports

Whether you're arriving to begin your studies or exploring Australia's incredible cities and landscapes, Melbourne's airports provide convenient and accessible travel options to support you throughout your journey. With world-class facilities and excellent connectivity, flying in and out of Melbourne as an international student has never been easier.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)