Arriving in Melbourne for the first time? This guide covers everything you need to know about getting from Melbourne Airport to your accommodation — safely, comfortably and without the stress.
Arriving in a new country for the first time is exciting — but it can also feel overwhelming. After a long international flight, you're dealing with jet lag, unfamiliar surroundings, heavy luggage, and the challenge of navigating a brand new city.
Whether you're arriving late at night, travelling with family, or heading to student accommodation in the outer suburbs, this guide will help you understand your transport options and make a confident, informed decision.
International Arrivals
Terminal 2 & 3
24/7 Transport
Always available
23km to CBD
35–45 min drive
Student-Friendly
All suburbs covered
Here's an honest comparison of your main options — so you can choose what works best for your situation.
Pros
✓Budget-friendly
✓Runs to CBD regularly
✓No booking needed
Cons
✗CBD only — no direct suburb drop-off
✗Extra transfer needed for outer suburbs
✗Limited late-night services
✗Luggage handling required
Best for: Solo traveller, light luggage, CBD destination
Pros
✓Door-to-door to any suburb
✓Ideal for heavy luggage
✓Available 24/7
✓No extra transfers needed
✓Licensed & regulated
Cons
✗Higher cost than SkyBus
✗Fare varies with traffic
Best for: Families, groups, outer suburbs, late-night arrivals
Pros
✓App-based booking
✓Can be cheaper off-peak
Cons
✗Surge pricing at busy times
✗Driver quality varies
✗Verify vehicle before entering
Best for: Experienced travellers with app access
Pros
✓Very affordable
✓Myki card system
Cons
✗Limited late-night services
✗Multiple connections needed
✗Difficult with heavy luggage
Best for: Daytime travel, light luggage, experienced travellers
Budget-conscious, CBD-bound
⚠️ Keep in mind: SkyBus drops you at Southern Cross Station in the CBD. If your accommodation is in Clayton, Bundoora, Burwood, Point Cook or Tarneit, you'll need an additional transfer — which adds time and cost.
Direct, door-to-door, stress-free
💡 A pre-booked taxi takes you directly from the airport to your accommodation — no connections, no extra transfers, no stress after a long flight.
A student arriving at 11pm heading to Monash University in Clayton takes SkyBus to Southern Cross Station. From there, they need a train to Clayton — but late-night train services are limited and may require a taxi or rideshare for the final leg anyway. A direct pre-booked taxi from the airport to Clayton accommodation would have been more practical, less stressful, and potentially similar in total cost when factoring in the additional transfer.
Melbourne is a safe city. These simple tips will help you travel confidently from the moment you land.
Use official taxi ranks inside the terminal or verified pre-booked transport services.
Confirm rideshare vehicle details, driver name and photo in the app before entering.
Be cautious of unsolicited transport offers inside airport terminals. If unsure, politely decline and use official systems.
Keep your booking confirmation and driver contact details accessible on your phone.
Confirm approximate fare expectations before travel when possible.
Use official airport pickup systems and verified pre-booked services whenever possible.
Good to know: If you're ever unsure about a transport offer at the airport, it's always safer to politely decline and use official airport transport systems or a verified pre-booked service. Licensed taxis in Victoria display driver identification and are fitted with in-car security cameras.
Some Melbourne universities offer airport transport assistance or digital Cabcharge options for eligible international students.
RMIT University
CBD / Bundoora
Monash University
Clayton / Caulfield
University of Melbourne
Carlton / Parkville
La Trobe University
Bundoora / CBD
Deakin University
Burwood / Geelong
Swinburne University
Hawthorn / Wantirna
Current eligibility criteria for airport transport assistance
How to access or activate digital Cabcharge if offered
Spending limits or expiry conditions that may apply
Specific booking instructions for your program
Whether the benefit applies to your campus or course
Contact details for international student services
Note: Policies and benefits vary between universities and may change each year. Always check directly with your university's international student services office for the most current information. Vammy Taxi Services is not affiliated with any university.
Direct Communication
Speak directly with your driver before arrival
Luggage Assistance
Help loading and unloading your bags
Direct Drop-Off
Straight to your accommodation address
Less Stress
Relax after a long international flight
Late-Night Arrivals
Available at any hour, any day
Families Welcome
Space for family and extra luggage
Fixed Arrangements
Confirmed pickup — no waiting or uncertainty
Licensed & Regulated
Professional, insured, traceable service
Simple things you can do to make your arrival smoother.
Charge your phone fully before landing — you'll need it for maps, contacts and transport apps.
Melbourne Airport has free WiFi — connect as soon as you land if needed.
Save your accommodation address and check-in instructions before you fly.
Keep emergency contact details and your university's international student support number accessible.
Organise transport before arrival — especially for late-night flights.
Confirm late-night check-in arrangements with your accommodation provider in advance.
Have some Australian dollars or a working card ready for immediate expenses.
Label your luggage clearly with your name and Australian contact number.
We provide Melbourne airport transfers to all major student suburbs and university campuses.
Clayton
Monash University
Bundoora
La Trobe / RMIT
Carlton
University of Melbourne
Melbourne CBD
RMIT / Multiple
Burwood
Deakin University
Footscray
Victoria University
Docklands
CBD Adjacent
Point Cook
Western Suburbs
Tarneit
Western Suburbs
Don't see your suburb? We service all of Melbourne and surrounding regions. Call us for a fare estimate to your specific address.
Tell us your flight details and accommodation address. We'll arrange a comfortable, on-time pickup — so you can focus on starting your Melbourne adventure.