Key Notes to Remember If You Will be Studying in Australia

Australian culture

• Australians are known to be casual and informal. A great example is that most Australian students refer to their lecturers on a first-name basis.
• Australians appreciate gratitude. If you are assisted or granted favor by service staff, it is customary for you to thank them, through words or small tips.
• Time is gold in Australia. Australians value time and it is considered polite to call if you will be late for your appointment.
• Public smoking is not allowed in bars, restaurants, train stations, and other public-covered areas.
• Loitering is strictly prohibited in Australia. Drinking in public is also not permitted.
• Australians are very helpful. Most of them will be glad to help you if you need assistance in just about anything.

Living costs

Living costs mainly vary depending on different factors such as your lifestyle and location. Below is a guide on what to expect on your weekly living expenses as provided by the Australian Government:

• Groceries and eating out: AUD $80 to $280 per week
• Gas and electricity: AUD $35 to $140 per week
• Phone and internet: AUD $20 to $55 per week
• Public transport: AUD $15 to $55 per week
• Entertainment: AUD $80 to $150 per week

Sydney and Melbourne are two of Australia’s biggest cities that have the highest living costs. Meanwhile, smaller cities such as Adelaide and Hobart are considered the cheapest.

Safety

A multicultural country itself, Australia is very welcoming toward migrants and international students. It is a diverse nation that celebrates many cultures from different nationalities and religions. The country is generally safe, but it is not free of crime just like many other countries. Certain precautions should be observed to avoid getting yourself in harm’s way:

• Remember the general emergency number in Australia (ambulance, police, fire): 000.
• Remember your campus’s emergency and non-emergency numbers.
• Learn necessary information on your school’s crime prevention seminars.
• Use the services of campus patrol that accompany students between a campus location to another.
• If possible, walk with a friend. If you have somewhere to go, let someone know where you are going.
• Avoid dark shortcuts in secluded areas. It is best to walk in well-lit areas at night.
• Avoid jogging or walking at night, do it during the day instead.
• Keep the volume low if you enjoy wearing headphones in public. Stay wary of your surroundings.
• If you feel unsafe, take pepper spray with you.
• Do not let your valuables be seen in easy sight. Avoid bringing jewelry, a large amount of cash, and other expensive items.
• Avoid clothing in an expensive manner. It may be best to not wear a watch, necklace, or any shiny accessory that can easily attract attention.
• Be cautious when talking to a stranger.

A student hotline for international students who are concerned about their welfare is established by the Australian Government: 1300 363 079. If you need immediate assistance or if an emergency arises, contact Australia’s emergency hotline: 000.

Do you want to learn more about Australia? Visit our page, MSM Unify, and check some of our other articles about living and studying abroad in the land down under.