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Why study in Australia

Australia is a leading global education powerhouse with some of the world’s best facilities and educators providing local and International students with a range of quality study options but do not just tak our word for it. Here are some intrestiong statistics from the experts showing why australian educatin system is so highly regarded golobally.Here are some other intresting points.

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  1. Australia is the biggest Island in the world , the sixth- bigges country in the world in land area.
  2. The only nation to govern an entire continent.
  3. Five of the top 40 cities with the best urban infrastructure in the world are in Australia .
  4. 4th happiest country in the world.
  5. +23000,000, population 47% born outside of Australia or one parent otn outside Australia.
  6. Australia is multicultural multi ethnic country with over 260 languages spoken most common are English , Italian , mandarin, Arabic , canonese and greek .
  7. +20 years of continued economic growth , weathrng the 2008 global financial criis better than most advanced economies.
  8. 3rd most popular International student destination in the world despite , having a population of only 23 milion.
  9. 22,000 courses , 1,100 institutions .
  10. 7 out of 100 top universitites in the world are Australian .
  11. University system ranking 8th in the world ahead of the Uk, Germeny, Japan and the Netherlands.
  12. 5 out of 30 best student citites in the world are in Australia.
  13. Australian universities feature in the top 50 ranked universities in the world in the following study areas, Rrts and Humanaties, Clinical , Pre Clinical & Health, Engineering & Technology , Life scinces, Physical Sciences , Scial Sciences.
  14. 2,500,000 international alumini of Australian institutions are making a difference around the world.
  15. Australia has produced 15 noble prize laureates and every day over 1 billion people around the world rely on Australian discovieries and innovations – including penicillin.IVE.Ultra sound, wi-fi , the Bionic Ear ,Cerivial cancer vaccine and Black Box Flight recorders – to make their lives and the lives of others , better.

World Class Education

Australia is recognized as a great place to live

 but did you know? Australia also offers a world class education! 

 

About Australian Education and Eeducation system

Australia offers a diverse range of study options for international students, with more than 1,200 institutions and over 22,000 courses to choose from. You can study at all levels of education from primary and secondary school, to vocational education and training (VET), from English language courses to higher education (including universities). And regardless of what you are studying or how long you are studying for, Australia’s laws promote quality education and protection for international students.

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This includes the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000(opens in a new window) and the National Code of Practice(opens in a new window) for Registration Authorities and Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students 2007 (National Code). These provide nationally consistent standards for providers of education and training for international students. As an international student on a student visa, you must study with an institution and in a course that is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). CRICOS registration guarantees that the course and the institution at which you study meet the high standards expected by international students. You can search for courses and institutions here on the Study in Australia website. Along with the ESOS Act and National Code, there are also regulatory and quality assurance organisations for higher education and VET institutions. These government organisations are responsible for registration/re-registration of institutions and accreditation/re-accreditation of courses. These organisations are: Higher education- Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA)(opens in a new window) VET – Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA)(opens in a new window)

 Australian education system

The Australian education system provides primary, secondary and tertiary education.

School education (Primary and Secondary)

School education is similar across all of Australia with only minor variations between states and territories.

School education (primary and secondary) is compulsory between the ages of six and sixteen (Year 1 to Year 9 or 10). School education is 13 years and divided into:

  • Primary school– Runs for seven or eight years, starting at Kindergarten/Preparatory through to Year 6 or 7.
  • Secondary school– Runs for three or four years, from Years 7 to 10 or 8 to 10.
  • Senior secondary school– Runs for two years, Years 11 and 12.

Tertiary education

Tertiary education includes both higher education (including universities) and vocational education and training (VET).

Language of instruction

English is the official language of Australia and the main language of instruction in the education system. Many schools offer bilingual programs or programs in other languages.

Australian Qualifications Framework

The Australian education system is distinguished from many other countries by the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).(opens in a new window) The AQF was established in 1995 and is a national policy that covers qualifications from the tertiary education sector (higher education and vocational education and training) in addition to the school-leaving certificate; the Senior Secondary Certificate of Education. The AQF has 10 levels and links school, vocational and university education qualifications into one national system. This allows you to move easily from one level of study to the next, and from one institution to another, as long as you satisfy student visa requirements. It allows for choice and flexibility in career planning. All qualifications in the AQF help prepare you for both further study and your working life. If you are studying an AQF qualification, you can be sure that your institution is Government-authorised and nationally accredited, and that your degree or other AQF qualification will be genuine. Our institutions are linked across the country and across the world, which makes it easy to move throughout the education system between courses or institutions and formal agreement and recognition frameworks mean every step of the path will contribute to your future no matter what your study or career goals.

Transfer institute or course

There are a number of things to organise and check before you make the decision to change either your course of study or your institution. You should first ask your student support services on campus or other advisors for help and advice. And make sure that you first check your student visa requirements and ensure you follow the correct procedures to maintain your visa. Don’t assume that the advice you get from friends, fellow students or education agents is correct. And you should also make sure you keep a copy of your course cancellation and enrolment paperwork. Remember, if you change your institution or course at any time you must contact the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP)(opens in a new window) and provide an electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE) certificate from your new institution.

Changing your course

If you want to change to a new course at the same institution you are currently studying and at the same level of qualification, you do not need to apply for a new student visa unless your current visa is about to expire.

Changing your level of qualification

If you want to change your level of qualification, for example from a Diploma to a Bachelor Degree, you may need to apply for a new student visa because your visa subclass may change. You should visit the DIBP(opens in a new window) website to find out more information.

Changing your institution

If you are thinking of moving to a different institution you need to speak with your current institution for information on doing this. In most circumstances the new institution will be restricted from enrolling you if you have not completed 6 months of the main course of study (at your current institution) for which your visa was granted. If you want to change institutions before completing the first six months of your main course of study you must contact your current institution for permission. You will require a letter of offer from the new institution in order to apply for a letter of release from your current institution.

Course credits and exemptions

In Australia, you can use course credits you have already earned to build on your studies. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), or credit transfer, refers to the recognition of previous informal and formal training, work experience, professional development, professional licensing and examinations, and other work-based education and training. Credit transfer is available in both undergraduate and postgraduate programs, at the discretion of the institution. Credit can also be given for previous vocational education and training (VET) studies. Australia has a system to recognise qualifications from other countries. The Australian Government organisationNational Office of Overseas Skills Recognition (NOOSR)(opens in a new window) helps Australian institutions to recognise qualifications from overseas, allowing for recognition of your previous studies. Below is a brief explanation of the difference between credits and exemptions.

Credits

  • You need an overall number of units or subjects during a course to earn your qualification.
  • If you bring work or study experience from somewhere else, your new provider may allow credit that contributes to your total, so you don’t have to repeat classes.

Exemptions

  • An exemption also means you’re excused from attending a unit or subject.
  • If you get an exemption rather than a credit, you might have to take another unit or subject to earn credits and contribute to your overall qualification.

How do you get a course credit or exemption?

The requirements and process vary by institution and course, but generally details of your work experience can be anything that proves your experience – from a workplace reference to a published work. Study experience will usually be an academic transcript or qualification documents from your last education institution, as well as a description of the curriculum you covered. Once you have decided on a preferred course and institution, contact one of their course specialists and tell them about your study plan.They will be able to give advice about the best education pathway that allows for credits or exemptions and suits your goals.

Education costs in Australia

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The costs of studying in Australia depend on the institution and the level of study you choose.

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As an international student, your tuition fees are payable before you study. You can use the Course Search on this website to find courses and see details such as their tuition fees. There may be additional costs for your course, including course materials and access to institution facilities. The list below gives you an indication of the range of course costs for different types of qualifications. School- $7,800 to $30,000 English language studies- Around $300 per week depending on course length Vocational Education and Training(Certificates I to IV, Diploma and Advanced Diploma) – $4,000 to $22,000 Undergraduate Bachelor Degree- $15,000 to $33,000* Postgraduate Masters Degree- $20,000 to $37,000* Doctoral Degree- $14,000 to $37,000* * Note: This does not include high value courses such as veterinary and medical. Please visit institution websites directly to see costs for these courses. All costs are per year in Australian dollars. To convert to your own currency, visit http://www.xe.com(opens in a new window) In May 2014 the Australian Government announced possible changes to university fees from 2016. If implemented, these changes would only apply to fees for domestic students, and are not expected to apply to international students. The announced changes relate to new policies applicable todomestic students only. These policies are not expected to have any implications for the fees charged to international students. From 1 January 2016, the limits on domestic student fees will be removed and the Government subsidy paid toward the cost of the course will be reduced. Universities and higher education institutions will be able to determine the fees they charge domestic students. The Government has announced changes to the repayment thresholds and interest rates for the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) to the ensure the HELP scheme is sustainable into the future. HELP eligibility is restricted to Australian citizensand holders of permanent humanitarian visas. More information about these changes is available at:http://www.education.gov.au/higher-education-and-research-budget-information(opens in a new window).

English courses

Studying English in Australia is about much more than reciting words in a classroom. Our teaching approach focuses on critical thinking, as well as group and project work – all drawn from real-life experiences, which means you will not only be learning the language, you will be learning how to use it in everyday life.

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By studying English in Australia, you will gain a huge range of life skills you cannot get at home. Invaluable skills like problem-solving, leading diverse teams of people, and applying your English to real-world situations – abilities you will draw on for the rest of your life. With a multicultural mix of students in our educational facilities, you will learn the world’s language in a truly international environment. Our English language teaching maintains a consistently high quality – no matter where you study or what course you choose. As the only country in the world with mandatory national standards and a comprehensive, industry-led quality support framework (see English Australia) you can be confident that you’re getting the very finest English education.

Types of English Training

Australia offers a range of English courses to suit a range of study needs.

General English

  • Your Goal– To improve general proficiency to access higher level courses; to improve your English for everyday use; to improve your English for travel; to improve your English for work purposes or to do casual work in an English speaking country
  • Course description– Focusing on communication skills with emphasis on speaking and listening

English for Academic Purposes

  • Your Goal– You want to study in an Australian school, vocational college or university
  • Course description– Preparing you for study at an English-speaking university, higher education or vocational institute

English for Specific Purposes (ESP)

  • Your Goal– You want to learn the spoken and written English needed for a specific context and perhaps want to consider an internship
  • Course description– Focusing on practical English for specific course areas such as business, aviation or tourism

Examination Preparation

  • Your Goal– You plan to take an exam such as IELTS, TOEFL, TOEIC, or the Cambridge First Certificate
  • Course description– Preparing you for English language proficiency examinations

English for Teaching

  • Your Goal– You want to teach English in schools in your own country
  • Course description– These courses include TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, EfTC (English for Teaching Children.)

Study Tours

  • Your Goal– You want to have a short holiday, study English and have fun or study English and undertake work related training
  • Course description– These courses are a combination of General English with sporting, social, tourist, cultural or professional training activities.

Australia quality assurance

Australia has national regulatory and quality agencies for international education – the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA)(opens in a new window) and the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA).(opens in a new window)  They were established by the Australian Government to monitor quality, and regulate university and non-university education providers against a set of independently developed standards to regulate courses and education and training providers to ensure nationally approved quality standards are met. These two bodies share responsibility for monitoring national standards for English language colleges(opens in a new window). In addition, the following student rights are protected by law under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS):

  • The wellbeing of all international students.
  • The quality of students’ education experience.
  • The provision of up-to-date and accurate information.

English Australia

English Australia(opens in a new window) is the national peak body for the English language sector of international education in Australia.  English Australia represents over 100 member colleges throughout Australia that provide quality English language programs to students and professionals from around the world.

English Australia’s focus is on:

  • Delivering the highest quality English language programs;
  • Providing a range of support services for a secure learning environment; and
  • Assuring tuition protection for students of all visa types.

    English Austarali

    English Australia(opens in a new window) is the national peak body for the English language sector of international education in Australia.  English Australia represents over 100 member colleges throughout Australia that provide quality English language programs to students and professionals from around the world.   English Australia’s focus is on:

    • Delivering the highest quality English language programs;
    • Providing a range of support services for a secure learning environment; and
    • Assuring tuition protection for students of all visa types.

 

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Living in Australia

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Living in Australia will be a new experience, but there are support services in your institution as well as from other organisations to help make adjusting to life in Australia easier.

As Australia is the fourth happiest country in the world (Prosperity Index 2012) and we have five of the 30 best cities in the world for students (Top University Rankings 2012), you are sure to enjoy your time here.

No matter what type of study you are doing in Australia, whether you are here for a few months or a few years, some research and planning will help you have a safe and rewarding study experience. Important considerations and planning includes:

  • Planning your departure.
  • Arriving in Australia.
  • Accessing support services.
  • Remaining visa compliant.
  • Working while you study.
  • Living costs and finding accommodation.
  • Health and safety.
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    Plan your Departure

    images (7) Once you have been accepted to study at an institution and have received confirmation of your student visa, the next step is to start planning for your arrival. Here is a checklist to help you plan your departure:

    • Passport and Visa– Check that your passport is valid for at least 6 months prior to your entry arrival in Australia, and that you have all your visa documentation. It is also a good idea to make copies of your passport in case you lose your passport.
    • Student enrolment and orientation documents– You will need your electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE) and student information pack, which you will have received from your institution.
    • Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)– This is a requirement for entry to Australia, so make sure you have your health cover policy arranged before you leave home.
    • Travel Insurance– You should also consider travel insurance, which covers things your OSHC may not – such as cancelled flights, lost documents, dental or optical care, etc.
    • Airfares– Make sure you are aware of the date and time of your flight. Keep your flight details in a safe and secure place, with your passport and visa.
    • Contact details– You may want to have a list of emergency contact details for family, as well as your embassy, accommodation and institution details. If you have used an education agent, keep their contact details on you, in case you need to contact them once you arrive in Australia.
    • Australian currency– There are money exchange places available at Australian airports and in cities, but it is recommended to have some Australian currency on you prior to leaving your home country.
    • Transport from the airport– Whether you are taking public transport, a taxi, or you are being picked up from the airport by your education provider, it is important that you have all the details including the time, the route and, if your travel has been arranged by your institution, their contact details. If you need a map to assist you in getting to your accommodation from the airport, they will be available at the airport, or you can print one prior to leaving.
    • Accommodation details– Make sure you have the address of where you will be staying as well as their phone number and payment confirmation (if you have already paid for your accommodation).

    Customs and Border Protection

    You need to be aware of what you cannot bring into Australia(opens in a new window) and therefore what you should not pack. It is illegal to carry drugs including marijuana, cannabis, heroin, cocaine and amphetamines in and out of Australia. There are a number of items that you must declare upon your arrival in Australia including:

    • Firearms, weapons and ammunition.
    • Currency amounts of A$10,000 (or foreign equivalent).
    • Some medicines.

    You should also be aware that as a routine part of their work, Customs and Border Protection officers may question travellers at any time, and trained dogs may also be used to detect illegal drugs or prohibited imports. If you are in doubt, declare your goods or ask a Customs and Border Protection officer for advice. Declaring goods does not necessarily mean your baggage will be examined. People who deliberately break Australian Customs and Border Protection regulations could be fined(opens in a new window) or taken to court. You can also find information at the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service(opens in a new window) website.

    Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

    Students are often surprised by how strict the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) biosecurity requirements can be. Live animals and plants, plant material, animal products and some food from overseas could introduce some of the world’s most serious pests and diseases into Australia, devastating our valuable agriculture and tourism industries and unique environment. So it’s important to remember that when you’re packing to not bring fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, poultry, pork, eggs, nuts, dairy goods and live plants and seeds, as they will not be allowed into the country. You can also find information on what you can bring or send to Australia at the DAFF web site(opens in a new window). If you’re in doubt about whether your goods are prohibited or not, declare them on the Incoming Passenger Card which you will receive on the plane. On the spot fines can apply for not declaring items.

    Arriving in Australia

    Students from Japan arrive in Brisbane Clayfield College 2013 600px-resized-600 When you arrive at an Australian airport, you will first need to go through immigration and customs clearance. If you need help finding your way around, just ask the airline staff or one of the border officials in the arrivals area. A clearance officer will check your travel document and 286688_13102208040017074064_STDvisa, and once cleared you will be able to collect your luggage to go through customs and quarantine clearance processes. More information on what to expect when you arrive at the airport is available at the Department of Immigration and Border Protection(opens in a new window) website or Australian Customs and Border Protection(opens in a new window) website.

    Getting to your new home

    You should arrange accommodation before you arrive in Australia, even it is just for the first few days. Have your accommodation address written in English ready to show the taxi or hire car, or detailed directions if you are using public transport. If your institution is picking you up from the airport they will take you exactly where you need to go.

    Orientation Week

    Some institutions run an orientation week (also known as ‘O Week’) for new students. This is typically held at the start of the year and during the week; you will learn about your institution, take tours of facilities, and meet people who will also be studying at your institution. You can usually find more information about your institution’s orientation week on their website, such as a full schedule of activities. If your institution has an ‘O Week’ it is important that you attend to learn how to get the most out of your institution and study experience.

    Seeking Help

    Remember, if you have any problems or questions once you leave the airport, call your institution’s international support staff. These details will be in your enrolment and orientation information.

    Accommodation 

    Once you have confirmed where you will be studying, you can look for accommodation that suits your needs and budget. Some tips when searching for accommodation include:

    • The costs will vary depending on your chosen state, city, and type of accommodation.
    • Always confirm the total cost and any other expenses you may be required to pay, such as a bond and utility fees.
    • Consider how far it is from your campus and whether it is easily accessible by public transport, such as bus or train.
    • Find out what shopping centres, hospitals and emergency service facilities, and other amenities are nearby.

    Short-term accommodation

    Short-term accommodation options you might want to consider when you first arrive in Australia include:

    • Hostels and discounted rates on hotels.
    • Temporary housing which may be offered through your institution while you get settled. Talk to your institution’s international support staff or check their website for details.

    Rental

    You can rent or ‘lease’ a property by yourself or with friends. This can be done through a real estate agent or privately. When renting a property you will need to pay a security deposit or ‘bond’ (which is usually four weeks rent), as well as rent in advance (also usually four weeks). The bond is held to repair any damage that you, your house mates or house guests cause to the property while renting. Some, or all, of this amount may be refunded to you once your tenancy agreement has terminated. For more information on your rights and obligations when renting in Australia you should visit the relevant government Fair Trading agency in your state/territory.

    On Campus

    Campus living can be a great option to minimise travel. Most universities have comfortable and furnished apartment-style living on campus or close by, sometimes with cleaning and meals included. Contact your institution directly to find out the accommodation options they have available and how the costs compare with organising your own accommodation.

    Homestay

    With homestay, you will live with a family in their home. Homestay can be a good option for younger students as you will have all the comforts of an established home, often with meals and cleaning included. Families offering homestay accommodation to international students are thoroughly screened to ensure they can provide a suitable living environment for students.

    Legal protection

    You have certain responsibilities to meet when it comes to paying accommodation expenses on time, cleaning and maintenance. You also have the right by law to feel secure in your property, maintained with working facilities. If there are any problems with your accommodation, talk to your agent or landlord (if renting), your international student support staff for on-campus living or the service where you found your homestay. There are also organisations such as tenants unions and consumer advocates that can provide assistance. To find out more visit the relevant government Fair Trading agency in your state/territory.

    Support services for students

    There are many consumer protection and support services available for international students. This includes services provided directly by institutions as well as those provided by a range of state, territory and federal government departments.

    Consumer Protection

    Australian has a strong consumer protection framework to protect the rights of Australian consumers, including international students in Australia. The Australian Consumer Law includes a national law guaranteeing consumer rights when buying goods and services. You should contact the relevant government trade and consumer agency in your state or territory, if you:

    • Would like information about your consumer rights.
    • Have a problem with a consumer good or service that you have bought or are considering buying.
    • Would like to know how a business should behave under the law.
    • Would like to make a complaint about a business.

    Visit australia.gov.au(opens in a new window) or www.consumerlaw.gov.au(opens in a new window) to find the relevant government agency for where you are living and studying.

    Overseas Students Ombudsman

    The Overseas Students Ombudsman (OSO) investigates complaints about problems that overseas students have with private education and training institutions in Australia. The Ombudsman’s services are free, independent and impartial. You can find out more about this service on their website: www.oso.gov.au(opens in a new window) The OSO also produces an email newsletter for international students. You can subscribe to the newsletter on the OSO(opens in a new window) website. If you are studying at a public institution, such as TAFE colleges and many universities and schools, you should contact the Ombudsman in the state or territory in which you are studying to lodge a complaint.

    Tuition Protection Service

    The Tuition Protection Service (TPS) is an initiative of the Australian Government to assist you if your institution (referred to as ‘Education Provider’ under the TPS) is unable to fully deliver your course of study. The TPS may also assist you if you have withdrawn from, or not started, your course and are eligible for a refund of tuition fees and the institution has not paid them. The TPS will make ensure that you are able to either:

    • Complete your studies in another course or with another institution, or
    • Receive a refund of your unspent tuition fees.

    Under the Tuition Protection Service international students have a number of rights and obligations. For more information visit the Tuition Protection Service(opens in a new window) website.

    Support services

    Institution support services

    Student support forms a large part of Australia’s education system. Institutions provide specialist services to help international students adjust to life and study in Australia, and to achieve their goals. This includes student services such as:

    • Language and academic support.
    • Designated international student advisers.
    • On-arrival reception and orientation programs.
    • Childcare, health and counseling.
    • Student accommodation.
    • Employment services.
    • Prayer and worships rooms.
    • Banking, shopping and food outlets.
    • Clubs, societies, sport and fitness facilities.

    Many Australian education institutions are like mini communities, so not only will you be able to undertake your studies amid world-class learning facilities, you will also be able to enjoy the social side of studying as well. You can join a club or society, improve your health and fitness in the gym, join a sports team, attend a social event, or volunteer for community service. To find out full details of what your institution provides please check their website directly.

    Student associations

    Australia has a number of student associations representing and assisting students from Australian institutions. National associations include:

    Most institutions in Australia also have their own student associations – you can visit your institution’s website for more information.

    Disability Support

    Australia has laws that protect individuals from discrimination in many areas of public life, including education. A person with a disability has just as much right to study as any other student. This means that institutions cannot:

    • Refuse admission on the basis of disability.
    • Accept a student with a disability on less favourable terms than other students (for example, asking for higher fees).
    • Deny or limit access to a student with a disability (for example, not allowing access to excursions, or having inaccessible student common rooms or lecture facilities).

    Many institutions offer services for students who require assistance with their studies because of a disability or chronic medical condition. These may include voice-recognition software, hearing aids or note-taking services. You should contact your institution several weeks before you arrive to make the appropriate arrangements for your specific needs. Institutions must make every effort to accommodate a student with a disability. However, the institution is not legally required to make modifications if the changes involve major difficulties or unreasonable cost. The institution has to prove the changes are unjustified and, before making such a claim, must have direct discussions with the student and seek expert advice. If you are experiencing a problem with your institution, you should first talk to staff at your institution. If informal discussions do not resolve the problem, you have the option of lodging a formal complaint. Institutions are required to have a process for students to register complaints. If you feel you have a legitimate complaint that is not being recognised by your institution, you should approach the Australian Human Rights Commission. Confidential enquiries can be made by telephone but a formal complaint must be lodged in writing before the commission can take action. Find out more about disability rights in Australia at the Human Rights and Equal Opportunities Commission(opens in a new window).

    Childcare

    While many larger institutions have childcare facilities with trained staff, there are also a wide variety of private and not-for-profit childcare centres available around Australia. The Australian government provides financial assistance to help parents with childcare costs. International students who receive direct financial assistance from the government, through a government scholarship, may be eligible to receive the child care benefit. To find out if you are eligible for child care financial assistance, read more at the Australia.gov.au(opens in a new window) website.

    Other support services

    Some other support services that may be useful to know while you are studying in Australia are:

    Emergency matters

    • Contact details– 000
    • Service details– Life threatening situations, such as a car crash or a fire.

    Local police – non urgent matters

    • Contact details– Call 131 444 (everywhere except Victoria). In Victoria you need to call your local police station (consult your local Telephone Directory)
    • Service details– Police attendance for non-urgent matters.

    Lifeline(opens in a new window)

    • Contact details– 13 11 14
    • Service details– Lifeline provides crisis support, suicide prevention and mental health support services across Australia. These can include stresses from work, family or society and physical and mental wellbeing. Lifeline offers support services by phone or through their online chat available on their website.

    Kids Helpline

    • Contact details– 1800 551 800
    • Service details– If you’re between 5 and 25 and you’re feeling depressed, worried, sad, angry or confused about things like your studies personal relationships, Kids Helpline offers free 24 hour, 7 day telephone counseling support (anonymous if you prefer).

    Poison Information Centre

    • Contact details– 131 126
    • Service details– Provides advice on the management, assessment and treatment of poisonous products including non-prescription pharmaceuticals, household and industrial chemicals, and plant and animal venom.

    Sexual Assault counseling service

    • Contact details– Search online for ‘rape crisis centre’ in your home state

    Service details – If you, or anyone you know, has experienced or is at risk of sexual assault, call one of the state-based sexual assault counseling services. These provide a free 24 hour, 7 day a week telephone counseling service (anonymous if you prefer). Many are connected to hospitals or government health departments to help you if the assault has left you with injuries

    Visa Compliance

    Once you have received your visa, there are requirements you must meet in order for it to remain valid, including;

    • You must remain enrolled and maintain satisfactory course progress and attendance.
    • If you wish to change your qualification level you will need to apply for a new student visa.
    • Provide your Australian address to your institution so they can contact you, and let them know if you change address.
    • You must continue to be able to support yourself financially while you’re in Australia.
    • Do not breach the working conditions applicable to your visa.

    Visa help and Assistance

    Education agents can also help with your visa application and paperwork (as well as your course application).

Work while you study

Working while you study in Australia can help complement your study and living experience. There are a number of reasons you might want to undertake part time work while studying in Australia, including assisting with living expenses and gaining work experience in your study area.

Most student visas allow you to work for up to 40 hours every two weeks while your course is in session, and unrestricted hours during any scheduled course break, but before you undertake any paid work you need to make sure your visa allows you to work. Find out more at the Department of Immigration and Border Protection(opens in a new window) website. Below you will find more information.

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Paid work

Australia has a wide range of industries and many have part time employment opportunities, including:

  • Retail– supermarkets, department and clothing stores.
  • Hospitality– cafes, bars and restaurants.
  • Tourism– hotels and motels.
  • Agricultural– farming and fruit-picking.
  • Sales and telemarketing.
  • Administration or Clerical roles.
  • Tutoring.

If you have existing qualifications and/or professional work experience, you may be able to secure casual or part time work in your field.

Internships

Paid or unpaid internships can be a great way to get exposure to the professional, financial and creative industries. Learn more about getting an internship on the Internships page in the Education System section of this website.

Volunteering

There are many charities and non-government organisations (NGOs) in Australia and they always need volunteers to help out. It can be a great way to meet friends, get some hands on work experience and give back to the community. To find out more about volunteering, start your search at: http://www.govolunteer.com.au/(opens in a new window)

Your Rights

Everyone working in Australia, including international students or those on working holiday visas, have basic rights at work. These rights protect entitlement to:

  • A minimum wage.
  • Challenge of unfair dismissal from the job
  • Breaks and rest periods.
  • A healthy and safe work environment.

Most employers in Australia are covered by an ‘award’, which sets minimum wages and conditions for a given field of work or industry. To find out more about your work rights visit the Australian Government’s Fair Work(opens in a new window) website. You will also need to get a tax file number to work in Australia. Visit the Australian Taxation Office(opens in a new window) website to find out more information on getting a tax file number, as well as information about paying taxes in Australia.

Finding Work

There are plenty of ways to find work that suits you, including:

  • Newspapers and online job sites.
  • Some institutions provide job notice-boards on campus and online. Contact your institution’s international student support staff to find out what options your institution offers.
  • Register your details at a recruitment firm; many of them help place people in casual or short-term work.

After Graduation

After your graduation, you have several options available to you whether you stay in Australia or head home. You may be able to continue your studies in Australia to pursue a higher level qualification or another field of study, you may be eligible to undertake post study work to put your newly gained knowledge to use and gain work experience in Australia, or you may choose to go home to undertake further study or work there.

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If you decide you want to undertake further study or work in Australia you will need to check whether your visa allows this or whether you need to apply for a new visa. You can go to the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP)(opens in a new window) website to check your visa conditions and find out what your options are. Wherever your path leads, think about joining an alumni group from your institution. It will help you stay in touch with your classmates, and can provide you with great benefits and opportunities.

Preparing for home

If you’re returning home after study, here are some steps to consider:

  • Shipping goods back home.
  • Getting exam results, which aren’t part of your academic qualification, from your institution.
  • Claiming the security bond back from your rental accommodation.
  • Joining relevant alumni organisations.

Many institutions run information sessions or seminars with advice on returning home and adjusting to life outside of Australia. Ask your international student support staff for more information.

Alumni groups

Alumni associations and networks are a great way to stay connected with friends and classmates. You can find and join alumni associations both in Australia and back home based around your particular institution, the course you studied, or other students from your country.  Most groups and clubs are online, so it’s easy to be an active member. Some of the reasons to join an alumni group are:

  • Keep in contact– After study, you and your classmates will join the workforce or go on to further study all over the world with your Australian qualifications, and regular social events will allow you to stay touch.
  • Support– Family and friends at home will welcome you home, but an alumni network is full of people who’ve been where you are and have grown from the experience personally and professionally.
  • Employment and career– Fellow alumni who work in your field can be a great resource when you’re establishing your career. They can provide guidance on your industry and who’s hiring through alumni newsletters and publications.
  • Benefits– Your provider is home to services that will still be valuable when you graduate. Whether it is libraries and laboratories or the coffee shop, alumni membership often gets you a discount.
  • Give Back– Alumni groups are great to match peers and mentors among former and current students, and being an alumnus gives you the chance to help another student navigate life and study the way you once did. Alumni groups organise many charity and community activities, so being a member makes it easy to take part.

Employment

Your Australian qualification will make you an attractive employee, not just to employers at home, but those in Australia and around the world as well. If you are considering staying in Australia and working after your current visa expires, you’ll need to get a new visa that lets you do this.  There are a number of options, so work out what best fits your situation. If you completed a Bachelors, Masters or Doctoral degree, you may be eligible for the Post-Study Work stream of of the Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa. Alternatively, a new employer may be able to sponsor you for a new visa– talk to their Human Resources or Recruitment staff. If you want to stay in Australia independently of employer sponsorship for a longer term or professional career, you can submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect(opens in a new window). You can find out more about your visa options at the Department of Immigration and Border Protection website(opens in a new window). Wherever your post-graduation path leads, think about joining an alumni group from your institution. It will help you stay in touch with your classmates, and can provide you with great benefits and opportunities.

Extending Your Stay

A student visa is a temporary visa that allows you to come to Australia for a specified period of time to study at an Australian educational institution.

It is important to be aware of the expiry date of your student visa as you must either depart Australia before it expires, or lodge a new visa application.

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If your visa does expire you need to contact the department immediately. If your visa has expired for more than 28 days an exclusion period may be imposed which means you cannot return to Australia for three years. See: Community Status Resolution Service If you are eligible, you may extend your stay in Australia for reasons such as further study, graduation, a holiday, work or migration. You can only extend your stay in Australia if you do not have a ‘Further Stay Restricted’ condition (8534 or 8535) on your current student visa. You can find out if you have this condition by looking in your visa grant information or through Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) See: Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) In general, you can only hold one visa at a time. A new visa (other than a bridging visa) will generally cease any other visa held and come into effect as soon as it is granted. You should contact the department before lodging a visa application if you have questions about how a new visa would affect your existing visa.