Living in Australia
Cost of Living
Living in Australia can vary in cost depending on your location and lifestyle. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses:
- Rent: Costs differ greatly between cities. Expect to pay more in Sydney or Melbourne compared to regional areas. Shared accommodation is a cost-effective option.
- Food: Groceries and eating out vary in price.
- Transport: Public transport costs are reasonable. Owning a car is more expensive due to fuel, insurance, and parking.
- Utilities: Electricity, gas, water, and internet costs should be factored into your budget.
- Personal expenses: Include entertainment, clothing, and mobile phone bills in your budget.
Overseas Student Health Cover
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is a mandatory health insurance policy for international students studying in Australia. It ensures that students have access to essential medical and hospital care during their stay, providing financial protection against unexpected healthcare costs. This insurance covers doctor visits, hospital stays, emergency ambulance services and limited prescription medication. Ensure you have this before arriving in Australia.
How to get your OSHC:
To obtain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), start by choosing an insurance provider that offers OSHC, such as Bupa, which is our college’s preferred partner. You can either arrange your OSHC directly through the provider or contact our college staff for assistance with the arrangement. For those who prefer to check quotes and compare plans independently, use the provided link https://www.bupa.com.au/health-insurance/oshc to explore options and find a policy that best suits your needs. Having OSHC is essential for meeting visa requirements and ensuring you have access to necessary healthcare services while studying in Australia.
Work Rights and Opportunities
1. Work Rights:
International students on a student visa can work up to every two weeks while studying and unlimited hours during study breaks. It’s crucial to monitor your hours to comply with visa regulations Work in Australia
2. Taxes:
You must obtain a Tax File Number (TFN) from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) to work in Australia. For detailed information, visit the ATO website. Australian Taxation Office (ATO)
3. Fair Work Rights:
Under the Fair Work Act, you have rights including fair pay, safe working conditions, and protection from unfair dismissal and discrimination. For detailed information, visit the ATO website Fair Work Ombudsman
Cultural Insights and Etiquette
Australia is known for its multiculturalism and laid-back lifestyle:
- Cultural Diversity: Australia is home to people from various backgrounds, making it a culturally rich environment. Embrace the diversity and be open to learning from others.
- Social Norms: Australians value equality and fairness. It’s important to be respectful, punctual, and straightforward in communication.
- Public Behaviour: Observe local customs, like queuing politely and keeping noise levels down in public spaces.
Safety and Wellbeing
Your safety and wellbeing are top priorities while studying in Australia:
- Personal Safety: Australia is a safe country, but it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Use well-lit paths and avoid isolated areas.
- Online Safety: Protect your personal information online and be cautious about scams targeting international students.
- Emergency Services: Dial 000 for police, fire, or ambulance in emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital and medical centers.
Leisure and Recreation
Australia offers a wealth of leisure activities to enhance your study experience:
- Beaches: Australia is famous for its beautiful beaches. Always swim between the flags and be aware of surf conditions.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy national parks, hiking, and camping. Many cities have
botanical gardens and scenic spots for picnics. - Cultural Events: Explore museums, galleries, music festivals, and cultural events
that reflect Australia & diverse heritage.
Safety and Wellbeing
Australia provides extensive support to ensure your success and wellbeing:
- On-Campus Support: Universities offer academic support, career counseling, and
mental health services. Reach out to student advisors for help with any challenges. - Student Associations: Joining clubs and societies is a great way to meet new
people and immerse yourself in campus life.