Congratulations on getting into the program! The best source for books is from the syllabus for your program, or the planning library if they have one. I was trained in the US, and my experience in Europe taught me that although the big concepts are universal, there are many aspects of planning that are not transferable to another country. So books I might suggest might not be suitable for you in Australia.

What areas of planning are you interested in? Of course, you will be exposed to alot of new stuff in school, and that is how it should be. Go in with open eyes and mind and see what you like.

If at all possible, I would suggest not working at least for the first semester in order to put as much of yourself as possible into your studies and to figure out what subtopics you are interested in. No sense in working in a housing finance agency if you are really interested in wetlands management, for example. If you must work (and I had to), the program that you will be attending will have good sources for part-time jobs in the field. Once you are comfortable with your studies, then working part time and during the breaks is a great way to make professional contacts and learn about what it's like in the 'real world'.

Lifesgreat mentioned cyburbia--lots of good sources and links, although a bit overwhelming at first.

It's great to prepare for informational interviews to get information about a firm, topic area, or whatever. It might even lead to a job, but the point is to network and get information. I'd definitely suggest setting up some informational interviews and see where they lead you.