Your first shopping trip after moving to Melbourne
Buy what you need to wash, sleep and eat tonight. Check bedding measurements and delivery access before placing larger orders.
Key points
- 1Cross off what is supplied
- 2Measure mattress depth too
- 3Buy food you can store safely
- 4Arrange someone to receive orders
1Look around before you shop
Check the inventory, bed, kitchen and laundry equipment.
Ask whether bedding and cookware are included, then check quantities and condition in the property.
In a share house, agree which items are shared and how joint purchases will be paid for.
Photograph appliance instructions and measure bins and storage so later purchases fit.
2Keep the first trip manageable
Buy what you can carry and arrange delivery for heavy items.
Check allergens, dates and storage directions. Choose food that needs no cooking until you know how to use the appliances.
Refrigerate chilled food promptly. Build up supplies once you know your schedule and cooking facilities.
| Need | Buy if missing | Check first |
|---|---|---|
| Washing | Toiletries, towel and toilet paper | What you packed |
| Sleeping | Sheets, pillowcases and missing bedding | Dimensions and pack contents |
| Next meal | Food you can safely store and prepare | Appliances, allergens and dates |
3Choose bedding by measurements
Record mattress length, width and total depth in centimetres.
Check the fitted sheet's maximum mattress depth. Include a topper if the sheet will cover it.
Match covers to the quilt and pillows. Read the pack contents to see which sheets and pillowcases are included.
Ask management for measurements if you do not have access yet, or measure after collecting the keys.
4Who will receive the order?
Arrange a recipient and access before entering the full unit address.
Ask management whether reception can accept it. Give the recipient the order details and official contact channel.
For bulky goods, check the delivery point and book building access, unloading or a lift where required.
Share access instructions privately. Check the rules for the delivery service and arrange an authorised recipient for signed parcels.
5Add the rest after using the home
Choose laundry and cleaning products that suit the equipment and surfaces.
Measure storage and bins first. Start with cookware for meals you know how to prepare.
A wrong size or change of mind depends on the shop's returns policy. Faulty or misdescribed goods involve consumer rights; keep the receipt.
Record existing damage in the condition report as well as photos. Return the signed report within 5 business days after moving in.
Frequently asked questions
What should I check before my first shopping trip?
Check the inventory, bed, kitchen and laundry equipment. Ask whether bedding and cookware are included, then check quantities and condition in the property. In a share house, agree which items are shared and how joint purchases will be paid for. Photograph appliance instructions and measure bins and storage so later purchases fit.
What should I buy on my first supermarket trip in Melbourne?
Buy what you can carry and arrange delivery for heavy items. Check allergens, dates and storage directions. Choose food that needs no cooking until you know how to use the appliances. Refrigerate chilled food promptly. Build up supplies once you know your schedule and cooking facilities.
Which measurements do I need before buying bedding?
Record mattress length, width and total depth in centimetres. Check the fitted sheet's maximum mattress depth. Include a topper if the sheet will cover it. Match covers to the quilt and pillows. Read the pack contents to see which sheets and pillowcases are included. Ask management for measurements if you do not have access yet, or measure after collecting the keys.
How can a parent arrange delivery when ordering remotely?
Arrange a recipient and access before entering the full unit address. Ask management whether reception can accept it. Give the recipient the order details and official contact channel. For bulky goods, check the delivery point and book building access, unloading or a lift where required. Share access instructions privately. Check the rules for the delivery service and arrange an authorised recipient for signed parcels.
Sources (checked 2 Nov 2026)
- ACCC: Repair, replace, refund, cancel
- Consumer Affairs Victoria: Owners corporation rules
- Consumer Affairs Victoria: Condition reports
- Food Standards Australia New Zealand: Food safety basics
This is general information, not legal advice. The rental information covers ordinary residential rentals in Victoria. Check which rules cover other accommodation agreements.