Life in Australia

Australia is one of the most popular destinations for international students, with over 500,000 international students from over 200 countries studying in Australia. This is due in part to the country’s welcoming attitude towards international students, as well as its excellent educational opportunities.

Studying in Australia offers international students exposure to a wide range of cultures. Australians have a reputation for being tolerant and accepting of those from all walks of life, so international students can rest assured that they will quickly feel at home in their new country. 

A FEW FACTS

• Population over 24.5 million.
• The only country that is also a continent, Australia is situated in the Southern Hemisphere in the south-west Pacific Ocean. Nearest neighbours to the north are Papua New Guinea and Indonesia (about an eight hour flight from Sydney). New Zealand lies to the east, about a three hour flight away.
• Almost one in four Australians were born overseas. You will meet people from all around the globe who have settled in Australia – from Europe and Asia, to Africa, the Middle East and the Americas.
• Australia has six states and two territories, each with its own distinctive history, personality and attractions. The six states are New South Wales (NSW), Victoria (Vic), South Australia (SA), Queensland (Qld), Western Australia (WA), and Tasmania (Tas). The two territories – the Northern Territory (NT) and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) – are partly self-governing, and partly controlled by the Federal Government.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

There are many transport options in Australia that will get you around town or across the country. Australia’s public transport system is comparably safe and affordable – and, in some cases, it’s even free. Depending on where you live it can include trains, buses, trams and ferries.

Sydney: For transport information including trip planning on buses, ferries and trains, visit www.131500.com.au

TRAVELLING INTERSTATE

Australia is a big country. International visitors often think they can get on a bus to get from Sydney to Melbourne. While that’s true, the trip will take about 13 hours. Most people prefer to fly. On domestic routes, Australia has two major airlines, several low cost airlines, and a number of regional carriers. You can book tickets through a travel agent, over the phone or through the Internet.

GOING TO THE DOCTOR

Australia has a very advanced health system and the doctors in Australia are highly skilled and well educated. You can visit most medical centres without an appointment, however private medical general practitioners (GPs) or specialists usually require an appointment.

Please see reception for a list of medical centres or specialists.

SAFETY IN SYDNEY

Australia is a safe and secure study destination with a very low crime rate. However, as with anywhere in the world, it is important to always be alert and aware of your surroundings and to avoid dangerous areas and activities, particularly at night.

Australia’s emergency phone number is 000 (zero zero zero).