I applied for US visa from Melbourne in 2008. I took following documents. But the visa officer didn't see any documents and told me they will issue me short term visa. I happily said ok as didn't need longer one anyway. Later found they have 5 yrs visa. :)
1. Proof of your residency in Aus (university letter, employer letter or other). I took university offer letter as I didn't have time to make a new letter just for this purpose. You should be able to talk about this clearly in interview. I was student and told what I was studying and where I was studying.
2. Letter from sponsor in USA. I got invitation letter from my brother in USA stating he will bear my cost during my stay in USA.
3. Australian bank account.
Above on you should be confident on what you say. Do not buy ticket before you get visa. This is stated by embassy. And be on time. I spend AUD 45 for taxi coz I got up late and hd to rush to visa office. lol
Take interview through online service. You should pay the visa fee in postal office and take the draft.
I was asked that "if you get job in USA, will you work?". I was honest and told, "yes may be if I get it legally" and gave smile. My brother told me that I should have not told this. But later found I got visa.
I heard that US Visa officers can read psychology of person. I think it is true. I was traveling to USA and I had no intention to stay back to USA.
Hope this helps.
