Welcome to Australia-China International Education Exchange Associate Pty Ltd
In most Australian cities, there are four main types of housing: houses, townhouses, units, and apartments. Renting accommodation typically involves signing a formal rental lease, usually for an initial period of six or twelve months. Shorter-term leases can be harder to find. Properties are generally rented unfurnished, although furnished options may be available or arranged. It’s crucial for students to carefully consider and thoroughly inspect the property before signing a lease.
Companies such as Unilodge, Urbanest, and Iglu provide apartments exclusively for students. These apartments are often located near university campuses and are conveniently close to public transport and supermarkets. Students can choose from a variety of room types and enjoy facilities like gyms, swimming pools, and pool tables.
On-campus accommodation offers a community lifestyle where international students can form new friendships and gain experiences essential to university life. This setup fosters a good understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures by mixing international students with local Australians. International students interested in on-campus accommodation can find detailed information on university websites. They should contact individual colleges or halls of residence directly. Given that places are limited and often competitive, students should apply early, ideally 6-12 months in advance.
Homestay provides international students with the opportunity to live with a local Australian family. This can be an interesting and enjoyable experience. Homestay hosts help international students adjust to life in a new country and build important social networks in Australia. Living with a homestay host is an excellent way for international students to improve their English and gain an understanding of Australian culture in a safe, welcoming environment. All international students under 18 years of age are required to live with an approved homestay or with immediate relatives in Australia. Homestay arrangements are typically made through the Australian institutions the students will attend, or students and parents can contact private homestay agencies directly. The placement fee generally ranges from A$200 to A$300.
Mobile phone services in Australia are provided by several companies, each offering a variety of phones and payment options. Depending on their home country's network, students might be able to use their existing mobile phone in Australia by simply installing a new SIM card. However, mobile call costs can be higher than those for landline calls. Many students find it more convenient to purchase prepaid mobile phone packages, which also help in managing their phone expenses.
To make an international call from Australia, students need to dial 0011, followed by the country code, area code, and the desired phone number. Overseas phone cards, which offer cheaper rates for international calls, are also available. These can be purchased at most newsagents and convenience stores. Additionally, students can make a collect (reverse charge) international call, where the person being called pays the charges. To do this, they can contact Telstra at 1300 362 162, where an operator will assist them. More information about collect calls can be found on the Telstra website and the 1800 Reverse website.
When opening a bank account, students should bring personal identification such as their birth certificate, passport, and student visa. For students under 16, a parent or guardian must accompany them to the bank, bringing along their driver’s license or passport. The bank may also request a Tax File Number from students, parents, or guardians.
Australia has four major banks: Australia and New Zealand Banking Group (ANZ) Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) National Australia Bank (NAB) Westpac Banking Corporation In addition, there are several smaller banks, including Adelaide Bank, Bank of Queensland, Bank of Melbourne, Bankwest, Bank SA, Bendigo Bank, ME Bank, and Suncorp. Examples of foreign banks operating in Australia include HSBC, American Express, and Bank of China.
Living in Australia is sure to be an exciting new experience for you. Don’t worry (you’ll hear this phrase often once you arrive), as there are plenty of student support services at universities and organizations like Australia-China International Education Exchange Associate to help international students like you adjust to life in Australia. Australians are known for being friendly and welcoming, and they’ll be more than happy to help if you’re unsure about something. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance when you’re here.
Australians are generally relaxed and informal. For example, many local students address their lecturers and tutors by their first names. However, it’s important to be punctual in Australia; it’s considered rude not to call ahead if you’re going to be late for an appointment.
There isn’t a single, typical Australian lifestyle. Some Australians opt for a relaxed, laid-back life, while others prefer the hustle and bustle of cosmopolitan areas. No matter where they live, Australians enjoy a high standard of living. On weekends or holidays, they often unwind at the beach, enjoy outdoor activities, dine at top-notch restaurants, or take trips.
In Australia, there’s always something happening. In Sydney, you can look forward to events like the New Year’s Eve fireworks, the Sydney Royal Easter Show, and Vivid Sydney. Melbourne hosts the Melbourne Festival, the Emirates Melbourne Cup Day, and the Formula 1 Grand Prix. In Queensland, there’s the Brisbane Festival, the Ekka Royal Queensland Show, and the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair.
The Australian government encourages everyone to learn as much as possible about their new country, including its heritage, language, customs, values, and way of life.
Most international students find studying and living in Australia to be a rewarding experience. You’ll be impressed by the welcoming and conducive learning environment here. As an international student, you’ll have access to numerous opportunities, services, and facilities designed to support self-learning at Australian schools.
Schools in Australia focus on developing creative and critical thinking skills, which are invaluable not only in academic settings but also in professional and everyday life. It’s crucial for students to demonstrate their ability to apply theoretical concepts in practical scenarios, engage in critical analysis, and use the knowledge gained from their coursework to construct well-founded arguments. Reviewing material before lectures is important, as many lecturers expect students to actively participate in class discussions.
Assignments are often structured to encourage students to solve problems independently and to apply the knowledge they've gained from their studies. This approach is intended to help students enhance their reasoning skills and foster independent learning.
You might experience some culture shock or struggle with your English at first, but with the continuous support of your university and the friendly staff at Australia-China International Education Exchange Associate, you’ll soon adapt and begin to enjoy your time in Australia.
One of the key benefits of studying in Australia is that international students are allowed to work part-time while pursuing their studies. This opportunity can help with living expenses, provide valuable work experience in their field of study, and allow them to make new friends. Many international students take advantage of this by working part-time while they study in Australia.
Getting Prepared
The first step in securing a job is to have a well-prepared resume. Before beginning the job search, students should create a resume. Many educational institutions offer career services that can assist students in writing and formatting a professional resume that includes their education, skills, interests, previous work experience, and references.
Check Eligibility
International students are permitted to work with their student visa. Once they have commenced their course, they can work up to 40 hours every two weeks while their study program is in session, and unlimited hours during semester breaks or holidays. It’s essential for students to verify that their visa allows them to work before starting any paid employment.
Tax File Number (TFN)
To work in Australia, students must obtain a Tax File Number (TFN). They can visit the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) website at https://www.ato.gov.au/ to learn more about how to apply for a TFN and the requirements for paying taxes in Australia.
Basic Rights
Everyone working in Australia, including international students and those on working holiday visas, has basic workplace rights regardless of how long they stay. Students are entitled to:
Australia-China International Education Exchange Associate Pty Ltd
