Published 22 July 2025
4 minute read 
Modified 22 July 2025
by Journal Student Living
When you’re new to Australia, that means you get to experience Aussie classic food for the first time. No worries, we’re here to help with a list of the top things international students should try. It’s time to eat like a local. Aussie food might seem a bit random at times, but that’s half the fun. From iconic snacks to pub classics, here are some must-tries while you’re studying (and snacking) down under.
The ultimate Aussie comfort food. Hot, flaky pastry. Rich, meaty filling. Tomato sauce on top (never inside!). Grab one from a bakery or servo and you’re living the Aussie dream.
Controversial? Absolutely. But it’s a rite of passage. Pro tip: don’t spread it like Nutella. Just a thin layer on buttered toast = chef’s kiss (or at least, less of a shock).
Chocolate biscuit perfection. Try a Tim Tam Slam: bite off both ends diagonally, use it like a straw with hot tea or Milo, and prepare for the magic.
Sponge cake dipped in chocolate and rolled in coconut. Sometimes with cream or jam inside. Basically, a national treasure in dessert form.
Photo by Eiliv Aceron on Unsplash
A golden crumbed chicken schnitty, topped with Napoli sauce, ham and cheese. Every pub has one. Every student should try one.
Light, fluffy meringue topped with cream and fresh fruit. Perfect for summer BBQs or pretending you’re fancy. (Also: don’t bring up New Zealand. It’s Australian okay?)
Photo by Deborah Rainford on Unsplash
Crispy battered fish, salty chips, maybe a potato cake or two… eaten out of paper with your mates and some seagulls trying to steal a bite. Iconic.
Yep, we eat our national animal. It’s lean, high in protein and surprisingly tasty. Try it grilled or as a burger. Don’t knock it ’til you try it.
A slice of white bread. A sausage. Some grilled onions. A splash of sauce. Often found outside Bunnings on weekends or at community events. Cheap, cheerful and 100% Aussie.
Whether you’re brave enough for Vegemite or just here for the sweet Tim Tams, Aussie food is full of surprises. Try them all, find your favourites, and embrace the weird and wonderful world of local eats. It’s on all international students bucket list. Happy snacking!
Source: Arnott’s official website – Tim Tam page
Journal offers all-inclusive student accommodation in Melbourne and Brisbane. It’s the ideal choice for international students or Australian students moving out of home or interstate. Our locations are super close by to the major universities like the University of Melbourne, Monash University, Trinity College, Monash College, RMIT or Queensland University and Griffith University and easy access to other campuses via public transport. Book your room today and live at the only student accommodation which focusses on community, connection and creativity. We have a range of styles to suite every student from cosy studios to large shared ensuite apartments. Take your pick!
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