Aussieguide

I N T E R N AT I O N A L

STUDENT GUIDE TO MELBOURNE

Australia ? nsfer a r t o me ? ave t Do I h eant to help re ? he sm Who i phone work y Does m

Introduction & How to use this Guide . . . 05 Accessories . . . 05 Before you Leave . . . 05 At the Melbourne Airport . . . 05 Accommodation . . . 05 Your School . . . 05

INCLUDED 5 MINUTES PH ONE CHIP + ONLINE SLAN G TRAINING

Communication . . . 05 Finance . . . 05 Transport . . . 05 Health & Safety . . . 05 Working in Australia . . . 05 Legal Services, Law, ESOS, Under 18 18 . . . 05 Sport & Leisure, Travel in Australia . . . 05

101 Things you must

know before you go ! tips, links,

aussie slang and much more...

About Melbourne and Australians . . . 05 Index . . . 05

A few rough statements to help international students

D

Adelaide

Hobart

Melbourne

Camberra

Sydney

Gold Coast

Brisbane

Perth

average January (oC) temperature

23

17

20

20

22

24

25

25

average July (oC) temperature

17

8

10

6

13

14

15

13

wet season

winter

winter

winter

uniform

uniform or summer

summer

summer

winter

average cost of living (AU$/week)

430

400

500

450

560

450

450

420

population (millions)

1.2

0.2

3.8

0.3

4.4

0.5

1.9

1.6

low cost & heritage rich

low cost, wilderness quite & pretty

multicultural & heritage rich

Australian capital city

Australian most visited city

outdoors & beach culture

good sise,lots to do, multicultural

origin of most foreign students total no. of foreign students reasons to stay

The table above will give you a quick idea of the most popular destinations. For more specific information, visit the following sites: www.southaustralia.com www.discovertasmania.com www.thatsmelbourne.com.au www.visitcanberra.com.au www.sydneyaustralia.com www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au www.ourbrisbane.com www.cityofperth.wa.gov.au www.travelNT.com www.abs.gov.au

good sise good valu for mone

D.I.Y. Important dates

e& ue ey

www.aussieguide.com/diy

This check list is the most important item of this book as it will guide you directly to t h e o t h e r c hapters of the book (where you w i l l f i n d m o r e d e t a i l s a n d e x p l a n a t i o n ) .

Dealing with the items here will mean a considerable amount of saved time and money to the student!

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̆​̆ ̆​̆ ̆​̆ ̆​̆ ̆​̆ ̆​̆ ̆​̆ ̆​̆ ̆​̆ ̆​̆ ̆​̆ ̆​̆ ̆​̆ ̆​̆ ̆​̆ ̆​̆

Do I know enough about ALL the sections of this Guide ?

Internet access.

̆​̆ ̆​̆ ̆​̆ ̆​̆ ̆​̆ ̆​̆ ̆​̆ ̆​̆ ̆​̆ ̆​̆ ̆​̆ ̆​̆

Did I book to see my doctor, ophthalmologist (should bring spare glasses/lenses) and dentist to resolve or document any possible issue ?

Do I have the following documents up to date and ready ?

Passport and correct visa valid for the duration of my stay

Copy of the Confirmation of Enrolment and any other letter of offer sent to you from your educational institution

Travel Insurance for required period (this is different to your Travel Insurance)

Compulsory Health Insurance for required period and any medical information regarding your health

Is my accommodation confirmed at least for the first 2 weeks? Copy of agreement and details

Valid International Drivers License (if you are going to drive)

Do I have an itemised account of what is included in my payments towards the school, towards accommodation and agent ?

Do I have a good understanding on the cancellation policies of the school and accommodation, and how would this affect my visa ?

Have I booked flights and checked that my arrival location, school and accommodation are in the same city ?

Have I checked whether I need to transfer planes and terminals on arrival in Australia ?

Is an airport pick up and delivery to accommodation arranged? Do I have their details ?

Is my accommodation close enough to my school ?

Is my accommodation near to infrastructure, services, facilities ?

Do I know what facilities/amenities are provided with my accommodation ? Do they meet my needs ? Eg fast, affordable and reliable

Do I know enough about the town/city that I am going to be living in? Will it meet my needs ?

Do I have the details of the International Student Services at my school in Australia ? (Refer to the DIY Form and your School leaflet).

Do I have originals and scans of my academic results as required by the school (for visa or further studies in Australia)?

Have I resolved my financial requirements ?

Credit Card

Local Currency for arrival

Prepared monthly budget

Have I prepared for all the types of weather at this time of year ? (see table on page XXX) Have I checked the airlines luggage restrictions ? (see yellow note on page

XX)

Have I checked Australian Customs restrictions to see what can/cannot be taken into Australia ?

Have I checked that my mobile phone will work in Australia ?

D.I.Y. (do-it-yourself) Survival Information, also found online.

www.aussieguide.com/diy

Here is all the information you will need to have handy. We also recommend you download that information on your phone.

Your Name Surname Nick Name Telephone no. at home e-mail address: Passport no.:

Notes

(

) Country:

Address in Australia: Town: Tel. no. in Australia

State: ( )

Post Code:

School / University in Australia: Name of your course: Your CoE no.: Address of school / campus: State: Town: Contact name at “Student Services”: Tel. no. at “Student Services”: Web address: www.

Educational Agent: e-mail address: Contact no.:

(

)

Contact person in Australia (at arrival): Tel. nos. ( )

( ) Mobile no.: e-mail address:

Post Code:

A few rough statements to Adelaide

Hobart

Melbourne

Camberra

average January (oC) temperature

23

17

20

20

average July (oC) temperature

17

8

10

6

wet season

winter

winter

winter

uniform

average cost of living (AU$/week)

430

400

500

450

population (millions)

1.2

0.2

3.8

0.3

low cost & heritage rich

low cost, wilderness quite & pretty

multicultural & heritage rich

Australian capital city

origin of most foreign students total no. of foreign students reasons to stay

The table above will give you a quick idea of the most popular destinations. For more specific information, visit the following sites: www.southaustralia.com www.discovertasmania.com www.thatsmelbourne.com.au www.visitcanberra.com.au www.sydneyaustralia.com www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au www.ourbrisbane.com www.cityofperth.wa.gov.au www.travelNT.com www.abs.gov.au

o help international students

a

n

Sydney

Gold Coast

Brisbane

Perth

22

24

25

25

13

14

15

13

uniform or summer

summer

summer

winter

560

450

450

420

4.4

0.5

1.9

1.6

Australian most visited city

outdoors & beach culture

good sise,lots to do, multicultural

good sise & good value for money

?

* Before you Leave, DIY Checklist * School Details * Resources *

* Am I independent * Am I ready * What to expect from my agent * * Who will I met at the airport * How do I make a call * Transport *

* Homestay * How do I get my bond back * What if I wish to move *

* Make the most out of the school * What if I want to change school * * How do I get the Internet ready * Can I get a cell chip for Australia * * Money issues * How do I open an account transfer money * * How will I get around * How can I drive in Australia *

* Is it safe in Australia * What if I get sick * My health cover *

* Can I work in Australia * How do I find work * Do I pay tax * * What if I break the law * What if I get abused * My rights *

* What is a good way to get to know people * Things to do *

* Is it easy to mix in * What are Australians like * Jargon & Tips * * General & Web Index * Lists of Credits *

LIST OF

CONTENTS

?

Introduction & How to use this Guide . . . 05 Accessories . . . 05 Before you Leave . . . 05 At the Melbourne Airport . . . 05 Accommodation . . . 05 Your School . . . 05 Communication . . . 05 Finance . . . 05 Transport . . . 05 Health & Safety . . . 05 Working in Australia . . . 05

Legal Services, Law, ESOS, Under 18

. . . 05

Sport & Leisure, Travel in Australia . . . 05 About Melbourne and Australians . . . 05 Index . . . 05

How to make the most of this guide 1... 2 ... 3...

1

Try to fill in the “Check List”

The Accessories and Check List Sections have the most important items of this Guide: • Your Check List • Your DIY and Notes Form • Your School A4 Insert • Instructions on SIM CARD for Mobile Phones • Instructions on the Online Training

materials and resources.

These symbols indicate the section you are at, they are colour coded to be found quicker.

If a section makes reference to other sections, other symbols will be shown at the top left.

2

Go to the Contents page or to the Index

3

Indispensable notes Tips & tales Aussie slang

Go to the section with the answer to your question!

Notes are coloured like traffic lights. Green will get you going with Aussie slang, yellow for tips & tales, the red are for the life saver stuff!!

BEFORE YOU LEAVE

•

1. Am I independent enough?

•

•

Can I live with strangers? Of any sex?

• From other countries??

• Can I cook? Can I clean up (after myself)?

• Can I wash and iron, buy groceries, pay household bills?

• Have I lived by myself before? In a different town or country?

• Can I find my way around by using maps (or google maps) and directions?

It helps to talk to someone who has already gone through this experience, but if you are not sure how independent you are, you SHOULD consider “homestay” for at least the first 3 months in Australia!

2. What are my expectations and are they realistic?

There may be many differences between life in Australia and in your country, so be prepared for all possibilities. Remember that no matter how much you plan, you may experience some difficulties during your time in Australia. However, there are some things you can do that will help you to deal with possible problems: • Carry this guide with you at least during your first month in Australia;

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•

• Carry this guide with you at least during your first month in Australia; • Be flexible in your perceptions and acceptance of new experiences; • Find someone you can talk to (a member of the school staff or friend)

at gn t si a id h wt l Gu I sa rriva A the

Visit www.getReadyMate.com for a range of online

whenever you find it too difficult on your own.

3. I’m under 18, will there be any restrictions?

This is an “arrival guide”, you must ask your agent and education provider (before arriving) about all the issues or requirements for student under 18. Such as: • Specific visa requirements (of age applicable to your country of origin); • Permission from parent or legal guardian to travel to Australia;

de

When you are in Australia and of you are under 18 years of age, there are important requirements and restrictions on: • Travelling within Australia; • Change of accommodation; • Change of education provider; • Change of visa.

arrangements if I am less than 18?

5. Can I change my school or accommodation?

It is your right to find adequate accommodation and welfare arrangement independently of your age.

If you feel that you need to change you accommodation, your school or even your guardianship arrangements, you will need assistance from one of the following: • • Your family or legal guardian; • • Your educational agent; • Your school’s student adviser; • An Australian immigration adviser or member of staff (Go to http://www.immi.gov. au/contacts/australia/ where you can look up their office address in your town and book an appointment free of charge during working hours).

Before BeforeYou youLeave Leave Tabtabtabtab

• Accommodation and welfare arrangements approved by the authorities.

This guide can help you with advice and information which are applicable to all ages.

Nonetheless, any students training resources under 18 will need all the support provided by his/her Australian legal guardian along with the support from their education Australian cities are cove provider and local red by government. If you ‘streetview’ on Google Ma ps. It are under 18, spend allows you to view the ne some time looking ighbourhood of your school at the following web or site: the accommodation that has www.immi.gov. been arranged for you . au/students/ Go to the Google help site ww students/575-2/ w. eligibility-student-18. maps.goog le.com.au/help/maps/ htm

4. Can I change my welfare

streetview/.

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6. For how long should I book my accommodation?

Unless you are completely sure about your accommodation, do not book for a long period of time, as it is not a good idea to commit to something you have not seen in person.

Arrange temporary accommodation before you leave home (for around 3-5 weeks), so that when you arrive you have some time to consider your long-term options. Once you settle into your life in Australia, it will be easier to know what types of living arrangements are best for you. Your school should be able to advise you about different options for accommodation close to your school, as well as the best times of year for availability.

Australia . (if necessary) As a rough guide for Melbourne you will need (bear minimum per week): 180.- Furnished Accommodation 90.- Food and personal use 20.- Telephone and internet 10.- Electricity, gas, water 20.- Transport 320.- TOTAL/week Remember that you also need to make allowances for: • Going out; • Travelling; • Cloths; • Extra houseware; • Buying things...

Here are a few sites that

7. Do I have enough money?

Maybe the question is “Do I tend to spend too much money”?. ‘How can I control my spending so I have enough until the Buy a Student Identity Ca rd (ISIC). It end of my stay?’. If you gives you discounts on you r flights to did not have enough Australia and within, privat money to come to e bus travel and boat tickets. It offers Australia, you would not discounts in shops ,restaurants, touris be granted a student t attractions, visa! Thus, what hat museums and cinemas. Av ailable to all full you really need to know time students in an Austr alian School or is how to budget and through the Student Trave l Association how to find work (for (STA) office in your countr the extra money you y. Details at: http://isic.org/home.aspx might want to spend in .

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The official government web site for International Students www.studyinaustralia.gov.au suggests that an average international student in Australia in 2010 will spend around A$360 a week on accommodation, food, clothing, entertainment, transport and telephone There are national variations in the cost of living, so it is important to check (before you leave) the sites above or contact your education provider for further advice about costs in that region.

8. What am I going to miss – should I take it with me?

You are going to miss your family and friends, so first of all make sure you have all their contact details. Load (or upload online) photos and contact details onto digital storage devices (which will also be useful later for your study data storage needs).

In Australia students use

Facebook as the main web based social networking tool: http://www.facebook.com/ There you can have your own site in English and/or in your own language for free.

You are also going to miss personal items that remind you of home, for example, music, musical instruments, sports gear and food. Check with your airline for weight and size limitations to assess what you can take (for example, some musical instruments might use natural materials that will require quarantine by the Australian Customs). Instead of taking food items to Australia, consider taking your favourite recipes instead. Remember that larger Australian cities have a variety ofinternational cuisine.

It can also take some time

Before BeforeYou youLeave Leave Tabtabtabtab

will help you to do some budgeting: www www Do a ‘Google Search’ of “International Student Living Costs Australia” and you will find web sites of major educational institutions in Australia, most offering advice on budgets for living as an International Student.

Select the ones from the area you are going to.

make friends A good way to to cook a fain Australia is eal and invite vourite home m few of your people over. A like to learn guests will also ose meals. how to kook th to find the right place to buy essential everyday items, and then to recognise different products in the shops, so it may be better to take items such as shampoo, cosmetics, creams, a hair dryer, medications (make sure to place liquids with your main language and NOT

17

YOUR HAND LUGGAGE, in doubt, check if approved

by Australian Customs – XXXwww.) and medical requirements, eg., Contact lenses or glasses.

Picture of what is allowed in hand luggage A few things to consider taking with you: • Bath towels and even a blanket (if you think it is going to be cold on your arrival); • A camera (and photos of home to show new friends in Australia); • MP3/iPod player, mini speakers; • Your laptop and DVDs; • Alarm clock (your mobile phone may have an alarm clock); • Your pillow, favourite blanket, slippers; Adaptors, transformers (It is important to consider that Australia

If you are bringing electrical equipment to Australia, check first if they use they same voltage as Australia (most items work on 100-220V which is fine for Australia!).

Most cities have department stores and second hand shops where you can buy household items, transformers and adaptors at a low cost.

Make sure to sign up with Skype for cheaper international calls, interstate and mobile phone call, as well as for free calls between computers (www.skype.com) You can bring desktop or laptop computers and other similar electronic equipment duty-tax free into Australia.

Make sure to tell the customs (or to declare on customs forms) that you will be taking these items out of Australia when you leave!

e a well Most unies hav . Also, a priced IT shop specialised shop that sells s wholesale electronic item re will have in the city cent than am apbetter prices a shopping pliances shop in centre.

uses 240/250 volts, AC 50 Hz cycle); Multiple power boards for items with different plugs; Bilingual dictionary (available on some phones); Some books in your language (which may be hard to get in Australia).

18

Items you cannot take to Australia. For information (in many languages) on what you cannot bring into Australia and what your family and friends at home cannot send by mail, visit the AQIS web site www.daff.gov.au/aqis/travel/ entering-australia/cant-take

9. What should I expect from my agent? How do I deal with my Agent?

•

Your agent is paid a good commission by

Check the arrangements made by your agents. Don’t assume that everything has been organised correctly.

A Chinese student was suppose to be picked up from Hobart Airport but she never arrived. Her agent made accommodations and pickup arrangements for Hobart whilst she was actually flying into Launceston’s airport (a Town 200 kms away, with a university campus where she was enrolled). With the accommodation booking for Hobart, the student assumed she was meant to go to Hobart and she found her way by bus..

When we met her in Hobart and we were able to explain what went wrong, she was very stressed and angry! She had to spent a lot of extra time and money due to a “simple”mistake from her agent.

Before BeforeYou youLeave Leave Tabtabtabtab

IT HAPPENS . . .

be dealt by your school. the education providers Nonetheless, make to make the necessary direct contact with your arrangements for your school if you feel that stay in Australia, and some will even charge you service Bring a power-board from fees in your country so you will only addition to need one Australian power receiving the commission. adaptor in order to connect They should several foreign items at once! therefore (as image below). be able to answer all your questions about the school or your accommodation, and if they do not have the answers they should have the contacts to find out. Do not be afraid to ask questions, even if you think your agent seems to think they are not important or if they suggest that the above issues will

19

•

•

you are not receiving enough information You will from your agent.

Feeling home sick is normal. nt and When you arrive be in a different environme in Australia, make your will miss what you love from sure you know the sickness quickest way to home. The feeling of home ars as contact your agent usually lessens and disappe (eg. via phone, roundyou settle into your new sur e-mail, skype or experiings. The schools will have msn). help Also, if your agent enced student counsellor to is accredited by you through. the AEI - Australian Education delays. If International, your your agent is making these agent should be well arrangements, ask to see aware of the National written confirmation.

Code of Ethics (http:// • You can have refer to aei.gov.au/AEI/ESOS/ the online calendar from NationalCodeOf http://www.timeanddate.

Practice2007/National_ com/calendar/print.html Code_2007_pdf.pdf).

• Regardign the weather

10. Do I arrive during working hours, on a weekday or weekend?

In some destinations, many services such as transport will not be available after working hours or on weekends. (and potentially not particularly safe). If you are arriving at these times, it is advisable to arrange an airport pick up before you leave.

If you are arriving at a late hour and you have made pick up arrangements, make sure you confirm that the person meeting you knows your arrival time and will be available, and that they will be prepared to pick you up if there are flight changes or

20

•

in Australia, have a look at: http://www.weather. com.au Your school and agent should be aware of any local events and climate paterns for your arrival.

11. Do I have any contacts in Australia?

It is worth asking your family and friends if they know anyone in Australia. Looking up a ‘friend of a friend’ can be one of the most enjoyable parts of travelling, and can be a rewarding experience for both parties. Usually you will not be given a contact unless the person is known to have an interest in meeting people.

People in Australia have often travelled themselves and have experienced hospitality

By: ilawled

Before BeforeYou youLeave Leave Tabtabtabtab

from ‘friends of friends’ in other countries, and will therefore give visitors a warm welcome. There is a common saying in Australia “what comes around goes around”.

21

SERIOUS FLYING

AT THE AIRPORT

12. Do I have the right documents ready for Australian Customs?

Just before your arrival in Australia the cabin crew will give you an Incoming Passenger Card to fill in before you land. The documents will be in English (refer to photo with translation). The Incoming Passenger Card is a declaration that explains what you are bringing into Australia. Answer all the questions truthfully. It is important to remember that if you have any animal or plant item with you, or packed in your luggage, you must declare it on your incoming passenger card.

The penalties for false declarations are very heavy and the goods will be confiscated as well.

You will need to

24

present this completed document with your passport (with the visa issued in your country) at the Entry Control Point for non-Australian passengers. Your documents will be returned to you after processing. You may then collect your luggage from the baggage hall and proceed to the exiting point where your incoming passenger card will be checked by an officer before passing through Customs and Border (photo) Protection and the Australian Quarantine Inspection Service. You may be stopped and your luggage may be opened and inspected at anytime. There are heavy penalties for not declaring as required. You must declare for inspection all food, plant material and animal products to ensure they are free of pests and diseases. It is a requirement to throw away any food items you have in

At the Airport Tabtabtabtab

your on board As you arrive at Melbourne luggage or Airport, get your free Welcome high-risk items Bag from the Welcome Desk in in quarantine bins in the the International Arrivals Hall, airport terminal.

Terminal 2. The bag contains a We strongly free guide to Melbourne, maps, acrecommend g, you read the commodation information, bankin information on employment information... If no the Australian . one there call free 1800 056 449 Quarantine web site: http://www.daff. gov.au/aqis/travel/ entering-australia/ cant-take  What if my flights are changed/delayed and I miss my connecting flights?

You will need to go to the service counter of the airline you are you with instructions and travelling with. If there is no phone numbers. If you still staff member at the counter, have problems finding a you will have to keep asking representative of your airline, and keep looking for ANY some Australian airports staff member of that airline have traveller information (with the airline name and counters or airport staff who logo) who will take you to are generally willing to help. the right person or help You will need to arrange a seat on the next available flight. You will need to find your luggage as this would have been tagged to transfer to the connecting flight. You may possibly have to pay part of or the full amount of the ticket for the new flight.

If there is a long wait for the next flight, most major airports in Australia have accommodation in close proximity to the airport.

Some offer ½ day rates and

25

a free shuttle bus to and from the airport. You can normally find contact information and pamphlets for hotels at the baggage collection/exit area.

If you have collected your luggage, you may not be able to check your luggage in until XXX before your flight. Most major airports have luggage storage facilities. For example, the cost of luggage storage at Melbourne airport for example is $10 for hand luggage, $14 for suitcases and backpack and $20 for skis, surfboards, bicycles (rates are based on 24hours).

Keep the receipts of the costs associated with missing your flight and check with your travel insurance provider as soon as possible to make a claim to reimburse the cost.

You will need to contact your pickup and accommodation provider to let them know of your delays and new arrival times.

How do I transfer from International to Domestic Flights in Australia?

Sydney, Perth & Brisbane airports in Australia have separate terminals for International and Domestic flights. If you are transferring to a domestic flight in Australia, it may be necessary to catch a bus,

26

train or taxi to transfer to the domestic terminal. You will need to proceed through Australian Customs with your luggage and then look

for the signs indicating the terminal number you need to go to and for the terminal transfer options (refer to Airport Guide at the end of this chapter). Melbourne International Airport (also called Tullarmarine) has both International and Domestic flights operating in the same terminal. You may be required to provide a printed copy of your flight itinerary as evidence of your connecting flight?, without which travel on the Inter Terminal transfers may be refused.

How do I find my way around the airport?

Airport signas are designed for international recognition.

We have included some to familiarise yourself with them. Include photos of

Travelling with one large suitcase with wheels and one bag for hand luggage is more manageable when you are tired, going through customs, enquiry counters, transport providers, through doors, to the toilet. Even if you find an airport trolley, it may require coins you won’t have .

At the Airport Tabtabtabtab

airport signage.

You can do some e-training online at www. aussieguide. com/airport...

eg Proceeding through passport control &

Understand your accommodation location relative to the airport. Do a search of your accommodation address and airport location on Google Maps (maps. google.com). Here you are able to determine the journey route and distance between the airport and your accommodation with the ‘get directions’ option (photo).

Allow at least A$2.00 per km for the journey by taxi. It can be very difficult to use local public transport services (carrying your entire luggage) on your first day in a new country.

How do I make a call to my local contacts?

If you have arranged for your

customs, collecting luggage, flight transfers, airport transport, airport services, luggage storage.

What if my airport pick up is not there when I arrive?

This question emphasises the importance of preparing all contact You can change details before leaving foreign money home (refer to your DIY at airports, but for the first FORM – page XX where fe w d ay s an d less stress on you should fill in contact arrival, you shou details for assistance ld purchase at your arrival). Be Australian curren cy (at least prepared for the AU$300.- ) prio r to your depossibility that there parture to Austr may not be anyone to alia. meet you at the airport.

27

mobile phone to work in Australia, you can simply dial the number from the airport, so you will need to understand WEBLINKS the prefix numbers that Google maps – maps. may be needed. google.com Refer to Airport Guide for There are also public Contact throughout informationthe for phones Australia’s major airports airport, for which there Australian Customs are 3 options: coins,&a Border card Protection Service phone (for public - www.customs.gov.au/ phones only) or a major site/page.cfm?u=4443 credit card. www.what to take..... www.formula1.com.au.....

Using coins, a local call (hotel)40c (but more to a costs

mobile phone). You can buy a phone card (photo ) Words you for need know thetopublic and costs) Domestic Flights phones from a newsagency located within the airport (see photo of

The Australian Government require you notify your education provider of your address in Australia within seven days of your arrival. You also need to notify your education provider of any change of address within seven days.

The public phones (photo) have clear instructions (photo) in English on the display panel. The Communication (XXXicon section includes instructions on how to use the public phones and phone cards.

What transport options are there from the airport?

If no one is going to meet you at the airport, the transport options are detailed in the Airport Table on the back page. We also recommend that you check the options on your arrival airport website (refer Airport Table). Check the availability of these services at the time of your arrival, as they may be limited at smaller airports.

newsagency)

28

If you already know your accommodation location relative to the airport, you will

the option of taking a taxi to any destination. Check if the airport to city service provides a convenient public transport connection to your final destination.

Remember, travelling on After ar riving in public transport Au stay awa can be difficult if ke for th stralia try to e the day you have a lot of and go t remainder of luggage! o bed to

local tim accordin e, reduce t this may help yo g he effec u to ts of jet lag.

At the Airport Tabtabtabtab

be able to determine your best transport options. Major city airports in Australia have a link to the city centre by a direct bus service. Sydney and Brisbane

airport also have a rail connection to the city. You also will have

29

Important UTAS Contacts After hrs Emergency (Int. students only) Tel: 03 6226 7600 International Student Support Officer Tel: 03 6226 2706 CRICOS Code 00586B

ISA.Hobart@utas.edu.au

Emergency Accommodation

Central City Backpackers ..............................FREECALL 1800 811 507 138 Collins Street, Hobart http://www.centralcityhobart.com Transport

International Student Adviser Tel: 03 6226 2706 International.Adviser@utas.edu.au

FT

Montgomery’s Private Hotel & YHA Backpackers ....Tel. 03 6231 2660 9 Argyle Street, Hobart http://www.yha.com.au/

Hobart International Airport Tel. 03 6216 1600 http://www.hobartairpt.com.au/links.php

Airport shuttle bus to Hobart ...................Tel (mobile). 0419 382 240

Study Abroad and Exchange Coordinator Tel: 03 6226 7125

International.Exchange@utas.edu.au Accommodation Officer Tel: 03 6226 7116

International.Accommodation@utas.edu.au

A

Taxi service in Hobart ................................................... 03 6272 2555 Metro Tasmania (Local Bus Service) ............................. Tel. 13 22 01 http://www.metrotas.com.au/contact

R

Important 2010 Dates

Orientation ............. First Thursday of month ELICOS starts ............ First Friday of month

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Welcome party ....... First Saturday of month Useful Web Sites

Weather

http://www.bom.gov.au/weather/tas/ Interstate Bus Services

http://www.tasredline.com.au/ Visitors Information http://www.hobarttravelcentre.com.au General Information http://www.tas.gov.au/tasmaniaonline/about/ UTAS Hobart Campus Bank (BSB 067104) http://www.commbank.com.au

http://international.utas.edu.au

English Assist Coordinator Tel: 03 6226 2946 EnglishAssist.Hobart@utas.edu.au UTAS - Hobart Campus Hub

We all face surprises when arriving in a new country for the first time… different language, different food, different weather, different ways of doing things, different services and bureaucracy…As a tourist visitor we are often free from the impact of these differences, however when we are in the country to live, work or study, it is wise to be aware and prepared for the changes. The first few weeks and months are often the most demanding! We are faced with numerous tasks and decisions… getting to school, transferring money, resolving Internet connection, buying a phone (being able to understand and be understood on the phone), buying groceries, clothes and toiletries, getting to the shops, where and how to wash our clothes - all this and more, simply to satisfy the basic needs of day to day living.

Wouldn’t it be great if you had the answers to these questions before you leave to study in Australia?

This 3 step guide offers quick, practical and graphical answers to the questions International Students most frequently ask, allowing you to share the experiences of others along with the local jargon (local Australian vocabulary) and links to the most useful Australian websites.

... will you arrive during a public holiday? ... what if your school closes? ... will your mobile phone work locally? ... what do you take and what don’t you take? ... did you make the best choice of accommodation? ... do you know who to contact for help in Australia? ... what is the best way to change money? ... what services have you already paid for? How much money should be returned to you at the end of your studies ? ... will I find work? Right now you may not know the right questions to ask!

This guide gives the answers to 101 common questions (asked by students coming to Australia), including a wide range of everyday subjects and 101 common “jargon” you will INEVITABLY come accross in Australia. The answers are provided by Marcos Gogolin, an Australian Teacher, AEI Accredited Student Agent and his partner, Kim Barker, an experienced traveller, with a diploma and extensive experience in hospitality management.

Learning the questions and answers in this practical, entertaining and easy to use guide will save you time, money, unnecessary inconvenience and stress!

This all-in-one, take anywhere guide, specifically designed for international students, has 14 tabbed sections filled with tips, graphics, web links and visual keys helping you to make a rewarding experience of living and studying in Australia.

© 2010 Look Before you Leap TM