It is estimated that it costs $24,505 per year for accommodation food, transport, clothing, medical and entertainment. Married students must also add an additional 35% for a spouse, and 15-20% per dependent child.
In cases where a student has school aged dependants, there are schooling obligations for their school aged dependents to study with either a government or non-government school which will incur school fees.
International students can access accommodation that suits their personal needs including but not limited to homestay, sharing with other students or renting an apartment or home.
International students have permission to work up to 40 hours per fortnight during term time. In the term breaks, students may work additional hours.
It is compulsory for all international students to have Overseas Student Health Cover as a requirement of your student visa. Students must have private health insurance for the duration of their stay in Australia as per the Australian Government policy.
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is insurance that provides cover on the costs for medical and hospital care which international students may need while in Australia. OSHC provides 85% of the scheduled (government recommended) fee for consultations with private doctors (including specialists) and emergency ambulance transport. It will also pay all the charges for a shared ward and treatment in a public hospital if a doctor appointed by the hospital treats you.
OSHC does not pay for pharmaceutical drugs, dentists, physiotherapists, spectacles or contact lenses, pregnancy related services during the first 9 months of cover or pre-existing conditions. Additional coverage for these purposes can be purchased separately from OSHC world care or any other private insurer.
Sydney has a modern, convenient transport system including trains, buses and ferries. Students will find that no matter which suburb they live in, there is a direct form public transport that goes directly to and from the city. Students using public transport will need to purchase an Opal Card from the NSW Government. Further information is available on line at www.opal.com.au
Brisbane’s public transport is one of the best ways to get around the city. With the TransLink go card students can travel seamlessly on all TransLink bus, ferry and rail services across south-east Queensland. Students can get the go card from selected retailers and QR stations, online or over the phone, and top up the card balance like a prepaid mobile phone whenever it is suitable.
The Translink website has updated its online translations to include public transport information in 17 different languages.
Melbourne’s public transport is the easiest and best way to get around the city. Students need to buy a Myki smartcard for flexible travel between trains, trams and buses. Students will be able to use public transport in and around the city for just a few hours or all day.
Students can plan a trip, buy or top up the Myki card online and download maps and timetables from Public Transport Victoria, the one-stop shop for information about travelling on public transport (phone 1800 800 007).
Sydney’s weather is moderate throughout the year with mild winters and moderate summers, making it an attractive destination for students from all around the world.
Brisbane’s weather is also moderate throughout the year with mild winters and moderate summers also making it an attractive destination from students from all around the world.
Melbourne’s weather is known for being fickle and described as having four seasons in one day – but it can still be enjoyed by students all year round.
Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne all have many major shopping centres and there are cultural pockets in different suburbs where students can purchase groceries and goods from their country of origin.
Sydney has a world class harbour with exciting facilities and activities to do such as the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, Darling Harbour, Aquariums, Museums and beautiful beaches are just some of the many beautiful places in Sydney. You can enjoy free entertainment that includes Sydney’s famous fireworks on the harbour and the Vivid light spectacular.
There is no shortage of major attractions to visit and explore in Brisbane. Across the river from the CBD, South Bank is home to Brisbane’s Cultural Centre with the world-class galleries and entertainment. Besides the big cultural attractions, Brisbane has two major sports stadiums, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and the Story Bridge to climb. Further afield the regions including the Scenic Rim, Somerset and Lockyer Valley have no shortage of waterfalls, lookouts and mountains to climb, while Moreton Island is the place to feed wild dolphins and snorkel around an old ship wreck.
Melbourne is vibrant, elegant, and multicultural and frequently tops the list of the world’s most liveable cities. With its hidden laneways, tree-lined promenades, and grand Victorian buildings, Melbourne has a distinctly European feel.
Melbourne’s biggest claim to fame however is sports. The world renowned Melbourne Cup horse race is held on the first Tuesday in November which brings the entire nation to a standstill. Australian Rules football is the most important sporting code. Students can catch a game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground; experience the diverse galleries, chic cafes, and shops; stroll through beautiful botanic gardens; cruise along the Yarra River; or get aboard a heritage tram to discover Melbourne’s magic.
