u/cindyxlouwho

I am a 32F moving to Melbourne sometime next year for 2 years. I won't know anyone in Melbourne, and I haven't been to Melbourne before, only to Brisbane for one month. I am from the US and currently living in Germany for the past couple years, so I have an idea of what I should expect in terms of making a big more. I do have a few questions just to help me better prepare for the move and start to understand the Aussie life. Any answer/advice is appreciated!
Thanks in advance!

1. Any advice for how to meet others and befriend people? If there are any recommended expat groups, please feel free to share!
2. Which areas should I look for living and that are safe? As of right now, I don't plan on having a car, so I would like to have close access to the trains and prefer not to live too far out from the city. I also would like to live in an area with people around my age. My base for my job is located on Collins Street for reference.
3. What is the average weekly rent for a furnished apartment? And the likelihood of being able to find a fully furnished apartment? Ideally I would like to have at least one separate bedroom from the living space and have enough room for a desk as I will be a hybrid worker.
4. Based on #3, about how much is the average basic living expense (l.e. rent, utilities, food, etc.)?
5. Is it a safe city for a single female?
6. Anything else you wish you knew as an expat moving to Australia!