Why Study in Australia?
- Australia has one of the best education systems in the world, with over 22,000 courses across 1,100 institutions to choose from.
- Australia is the closest English-speaking western country to Indonesia.
- Australia is at the cutting edge of the new innovations and advancements. By studying in Australia, students can derive benefit from the country’s spectacular technology and research assets.
- Degrees obtained from Australian schools are recognized by institutions and employers all over the world, making Australian graduates exceptionally sought after.
- Students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week while they are studying in Australia. This gives students the opportunity to gain work experience and help cover their living expenses while they study.
- Australian people are known for their friendliness and relaxed attitude, and very welcoming to international students.
- Australia is a safe, harmonious, and multicultural country, with a low crime rate and culturally diverse society.
- Australian wildlife is remarkably diverse as is the landscapes, with countless natural attractions to explore.
- Australian government give international students with an eligible qualification at degree-level or above the chance to work in Australia temporarily with Temporary Graduate Visa.
Australia at a Glance
Australia is divided into six states: New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Tasmania, Western Australia, and South Australia, and two territories: Northern Territory and Australian Capital Territory. Australia has developed into a globally competitive, advanced market economy. Australia also has diverse wildlife and landscapes, with natural attractions sprinkled all over the nation. Most areas in Australia are 2-3 hours ahead of Asia, 4-5 hours ahead of the Indian subcontinent, 9-10 hours ahead of Europe and 16-20 hours ahead of the Americas. Daylight saving (Summer time) operates in most Australian states from late October to late March.
States
Home to popular tourist spots like the Blue Mountains and the Hunter Valley, New South Wales is Australia’s oldest and most populated state. It is located on the east coast of Australia, perfectly positioned to capitalize on all of Australia's rich resources. Sydney is its largest and oldest city and is renowned for its idyllic beaches, great walks, and world-class dining. As a sophisticated multicultural city full of choices, entertainment, shopping, sightseeing or relaxation can be found in Sydney. The vibrant city is most famous amongst tourists for its Sydney Opera House and iconic Harbour Bridge.
Despite being the smallest of the mainland states, the country’s second most populous city, Melbourne, is located in Victoria. Known as the country’s counter culture capital, Melbourne is a source of inspiration for artists, writers, and musicians. The city is famed for its graffiti laneways, fashion-forward boutiques, and booming café scene. Victorians' enthusiasm for sport is also legendary and this is where Australian Rules football began. The only thing more sacred than the footy is Melbournians love of coffee, and here you’ll find the flat white an Australian-invented favorite.
From the splendid lights of the Gold Coast to the vivid underwater universe of the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s most extensive subtropical rainforest, Queensland has a piece of paradise to suit each voyager. As the second largest Australian state, Queensland occupies nearly one-fourth of the continent. Brisbane, the third most populous city in Australia, is the capital of Queensland. Often referred to as the "Sunshine State", tourism in the state, fuelled largely by its warm tropical climate, is a major industry.
Tasmania, the smallest Australian state, is an island state of Australia. Hobart, its capital city, is the least populated capital city, and is home to one of the world's most intriguing art galleries. One-fifth of Tasmania is covered by national parks and wilderness – abundant in driving routes and walking trails – and it is one of the world’s most mountainous islands. From the heavily grazed grassland of the dry Midlands to the tall evergreen eucalypt forest, alpine heathlands and extensive areas of cool temperate rainforests and moorlands in the rest of the state, Tasmania has extremely diverse vegetation.
Western Australia lies in the southern hemisphere, covering one-third of Australia’s total landmass. Here, you can experience Australia’s sunniest capital city, Perth, home to 75% of the state's population. Perth sits aside the winding Swan River. Completely surrounded by Australian nature, Perth has the Indian Ocean on one side and the Australian outback on the other. Not surprisingly, water sports such as surfing, swimming, and sailing are part of everyday life.
Home to Kangaroo Island, South Australia is an internationally renowned wildlife haven. South Australia has a thriving arts scene and is known as the ‘Festival State’, with more than 500 events and festivals taking place there each year. Also famed for its wine, the Barossa Valley is Australia's richest and best-known wine region. Its capital city, Adelaide, is reportedly the home to the biggest display of Aboriginal Culture and artefacts. Popular tourist attractions include the cultural precinct of North Terrace with its museums, galleries, and carefully preserved historic gems; the Adelaide Central Market, a shopping institution; and the impressive line-up of performances and events at the Adelaide Festival Centre.
Territories
Northern Territory is home to UNESCO World Heritage area Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. The two spectacular natural rock formations, Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), which are sacred to the local Aboriginal people, have become major tourist attractions. Australia's only tropical capital city, Darwin gazes out confidently across the Timor Sea. The city seems removed from the rest of the country since it is closer to Bali than Bondi, which is just the way the locals like it.
Situated in the south-east of the nation and enclaved within the state of New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory is Australia’s federal district. Containing Australia’s capital city, Canberra, the Australian Capital Territory is conveniently nestled between Sydney and Melbourne. It offers sophistication and style without the inconveniences of a large metropolis. A flourishing food and wine scene, a variety of galleries and museums and access to a series of beautiful national parks make it the perfect base for a little indulgence and adventure.
Accommodation
Homestay is a type of accommodation for students from another country staying with a local Host family whilst they are studying abroad. Homestay is a popular option for students who need a safe, economical and convenient place to stay. Students can adjust quicker in a new environment with the friendly support offered by Host families. They have the opportunity to make new friends, experience the Australian lifestyle, culture, weather, and society and practice their English and participate in the daily routine of the Host family’s life.
Meridian Homestay Services is a Sydney based Homestay provider with more than 25 years experience finding homes for students from all over the world.
All Host families are inspected by Meridian Homestay Services to ensure they meet Federal Government supported standards. It is mandatory for all Host families to have a Working with Children Check, and commit to Host insurance. They also offer a 24-hour, 7-days a week Emergency Support Service, for students and Host families.
Only few steps to apply Homestay through MHS:
- Click on the the online application form.
- Fill out the form and submit.
- If you have any questions refer to Meridian Homestay’s website.
- Or feel free to email Meridian Homestay Services: MHS@meridianhomestay.com.au.
Find out more on here.
More information here.
Check Real Estate and Domain for further information. Some useful information, such as: where to look for a property, the costs of renting, applying for a property and understanding tenancy agreements, can be found at LJ Hooker.
Also check Gumtree for shared places. Other useful websites : Flatmates, Furnished property, and Flatshare.
Transport
Banking
Australia’s major banks are:
- Commonwealth Bank of Australia
- Westpac Banking Corporation
- National Australia Bank
- Australia and New Zealand Bank (ANZ)
Most banks will charge you for having an account with them. If you make a withdrawal from another banks ATM you will pay up to $2.50 per transaction. Have a look at Info Choice.
Other Information
- Health Care and Insurance
- Safety
- Social Activities & Events in Sydney
The nearest medical and dental clinics from Sydney City are located at:
- Dr Gloria Xu Medical Practice Shop QG 1, Prince Centre, 8 Quay St Haymarket, 02 9212 2839
- Healthpac Medical Centre – Sydney LG, 59 Goulburn Street Sydney, 02 9282 9725
- Macquarie Street Medical Centre – Level 4, 195 Macquarie Street Sydney 02 9238 0800 or Macquarie Street Medical Practice 02 9221 1933
- Dentist: 580 George Street SYDNEY NSW 2000 Telephone: 9267 7569
Also see OSHC World Care. Overseas Student Health Cover is a compulsory requirement of DIBP– all student visa holders must have Overseas Student Health Cover.
Australia is considered to be one of the world’s safest countries. However, like all countries and major cities, undue risks should not be taken in Sydney so:
Personal security
- Avoid poorly lit park areas after hours – walk with purpose and confidence
- Do not provoke undue attention to yourself with loud behaviour
- Take care of your valuables and belongings at all times
- If you are going out on the town to bars and clubs keep a careful watch over your drinks/or have a designated person to watch over everyone.
- Do not Hitchhike (do not get into a car with someone you do not know)
- If you are in a major accident or you feel your life is in danger use your cell phone and contact police, fire or ambulance 000.
Beaches
- You must swim inside the flags, swimming outside these flags can be dangerous and the lifeguards maybe not to be able to see you if you need help. Wave towards the beach or at a lifeguard if you need help.
- In summer the UV can be extreme. Remember: Slip on a shirt, Slop on some Sun Screen (maximum strength), Slap on a hat.
- Drink plenty of water and sports drinks to replace salt if playing sport in the sun.
Bushwalking or Camping
- Don’t leave your shoes outside where spiders can crawl into them. Shake them upside down before putting them on. Ph: 13 11 26 Poisons line
- Never put any part of your body anywhere you can’t see what’s there beforehand, Don’t go walking barefoot , Keep to paths
- If you see a snake, don’t approach it or harass it.
There are many fun things to do in Sydney a lot of them can be free! Have a beach party or Picnic in the large parks around the city and suburbs; attend the free music festivals, such as opera or rock in the park at the Domain in the centre of the city, there are often free festivals on at Darling Harbour. Or see free shows such as Vivid where Sydney puts art and light shows on buildings or do some great walks around the beach fronts, see sculpture by the sea which is one festival that happens every year. Most all art galleries and Museums are free.
There are websites such as meet up where you choose something you would like to do and join a group of bush walkers, diners or theatre goers.
Choose where and what you would like to join at MeetUp.
Tours and things to do. Read more at Viator.
Free things to do in Sydney, find out more about it here.
Social Events: www.sydney.com/event.
In Sydney: www.your-rv-lifestyle.com/things-to-do-in-australia/
- Types of Student Visa
- Emergency Services (24 hours)
- Interpreter Services
Student visa (Subclass 500)
All of the following types of study are included on this visa. For more information about student visas, visit Department of Home Affairs:
- independent ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students)
- schools (primary and secondary)
- secondary school exchange program
- vocational education and training (VET)
- higher education
- postgraduate research
- non-award courses
- international students sponsored by the Department of Foreign Affairs or Defence.
Familiarise yourself with the Emergency services numbers: Useful phone numbers are:
ORGANIZATION | PHONE |
Emergency Services – POLICE. FIRE. AMBULANCE. (free call) | 000 |
PoliceLevel 3, SPC, 151-241 Goulburn Street DARLINGHURST 2010 Fax: 02 9265 4104 | 9265 4144 |
Fire Station 113 George St, Redfern 2016 | 9698 1161 |
Hospital St Vincent’s, 390 Victoria St, Darlinghurst | 8382 1111 |
Dentist Sydney Dental Hospital, 2 Chalmers St, Surry Hills | 9293 3333 |
Poisons Information Centre | 13 11 26 |
The Head of Operations / Counsellor will help you with any interpreter assistance. We have access to an interpreter twenty four (24) hours a day.
Be aware of Telstra’s twenty-four (24) hour interpreter service.
Telephone 131 450 – if anytime you are having difficulty communicating in English.