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International Student Guide | Melbourne | 2020 International Student Guide 2020 FREE Melbourne A guide by local experts
Forward thinking, career focused Futures shaped here Study at Australia’s number one university for graduate employment.* Today’s home for tomorrow’s leaders. We pride ourselves on providing international With more buildings to choose from, private studios and shared students with practical, industry-focused apartments designed perfectly for students, and Melbourne’s best courses that prepare you for a rewarding career. locations, choose a home that inspires you. • 12-week post-study internship program provided by Study Group Australia Pty Limited. • Two-year, 12-subject master’s degrees with the eligibility to apply for post-study work rights. • Located in the heart of Melbourne, ranked #2 of the world’s most livable cities,^ with additional centres in Brisbane and Sydney. Get the best head start at Scape. • Celebrating 25 years of success between Charles Sturt University Scape Student Living and Study Group Australia Pty Limited. P. +61 3 9977 8088 E. bookings.au@scape.com W. scape.com Learn more: csustudycentres.edu.au/insider *QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey 2019 ^The Economic Intelligence Unit, 2019 Charles Sturt University. CRICOS Provider Code: 00005F. ABN: 83 878 708 551. The Charles Sturt University Study Centres are operated by Study Group Australia Pty Limited ABN 88 070 919 327 under a services agreement with Charles Sturt University. 32951_11.19
OUR TEAM Contents EDITORIAL Content Manager - Gemma Kaczerepa Writer - Quyen Tran Setting up ACCOMMODATION 22 COMMUNICATION 36 Production Manager & Everything you need to Designer - Samuel Trezise know to get your new MONEY & BANKING 40 student life organised EMPLOYMENT 46 PHOTOGRAPHY and start enjoying the Samuel Trezise experience of being in a STUDYING 56 Visit Victoria new city. HEALTH & SAFETY 60 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Advertising - Bela Mitchell TRANSPORT 72 Areas Managing Director - James CITY CENTRE 82 Learn about the Martin different areas that make CARLTON & FITZROY 88 Marketing Coordinator - Melbourne an ideal place NORTH MELBOURNE & Portia Postlethwaite to live and study. PARKVILLE 94 BRUNSWICK & NORTHCOTE 100 ENQUIRIES AND FEEDBACK SOUTHBANK & SOUTH For all enquiries please MELBOURNE 102 contact hello@insiderguides.com.au If you have any feedback for Insider Guides, we’d love to Activities hear it. Please head to: Looking for something EVENTS 107 www.insiderguides.com.au/ to do on the weekend? feedback LIVE MUSIC 110 Want some new ways to make friends or explore CINEMAS 111 Co-branding partners: the city? Find out the FUN ACTIVITIES 112 best activities in and CAMPING 115 around Melbourne. TRAVEL 118 KEY CONTACTS AND SERVICES Need some help while you are in Melbourne? Find the All information presented is true and correct contact details of the various support services available. to the best of our knowledge. Current businesses and services mentioned were operating at the time of publication. We P. 120 apologise if any have moved, closed or their services have altered in the interim. 4 STUDYMELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU • MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU INSIDERGUIDES.COM.AU 5
A message from the Lord Mayor of Melbourne Welcome to Melbourne; I am settle in and set yourself up for delighted that you’ve chosen to make success. Sign up to develop your our city, one of the world’s most professional skills at the Melbourne liveable cities, your home while International Student Conference, you study. register for our International Student Did you know Melbourne is ranked newsletter or get involved in one of the best city in Australia for our many volunteer programs like students? And third best in the world, the City Ambassador International just behind London and Tokyo. We are Student program. I hope to see you at proud to be a home away from home the Lord Mayor’s Student Welcome. for our international students. While you’re here it’s very important Our city is a world-class education to us that you feel welcomed, JUST ARRIVED hub with top-tier universities and respected and safe. We want every many new innovative courses on student to have a positive experience. offer. We have nine universities We hope you build a lasting IN MELBOURNE? and more than 200 educational connection with Melbourne, and institutions and we offer a range I encourage you to experience of services, to help students feel everything our city has to offer. It is welcome. a great place to study and an even You have all come a long way to be better place to live. You’ll find so here and are now one of almost much to love here, whether your 60,000 international students who interests lie in the arts, sports, food The City of Melbourne runs a range of events have elected to study in Melbourne or socialising. and programs for international students. – or one of almost 30,000 who also call the city home. I wish you every success in your studies and hope you feel at home We pride ourselves on embracing with us during your stay. Do you want to: people from all walks of life; our • Make new friends? city is home to people speaking 260 Sally Capp different languages and dialects and Lord Mayor • Come to the Lord Mayor’s Student Welcome? practicing 135 faiths. • Attend free workshops, tours and performances? International students are an • Learn leadership, employment and job search skills? important part of the fabric of this city and we want you to get involved • Register for volunteer opportunities? and enjoy your new Melbourne life. City of Melbourne has a range of Sign up to our newsletter at events and programs to help you melbourne.vic.gov.au/internationalstudents Follow us on Facebook @cityofmelbourneinternationalstudents INSIDERGUIDES.COM.AU 7
You are invited to a welcome dinner Are you new to Australia? Do you want to meet local friends? Do you love tasting food from different countries? Want to learn more about Australian and other cultures? Join us at welcome dinners held across Melbourne! A message from Study Melbourne Welcome to Melbourne, An initiative of the Victorian Australia’s best student city Government, we offer free help and support, cultural experiences You’ll love studying in Melbourne. and social events, and programs to There are so many ways to get help you prepare for career success. involved, meet new friends, develop Our services are independent, new skills and prepare for the career confidential and free. of your dreams. Free programs and services for international students Stay in touch with are available through your education Study Melbourne: provider, your local council, • Subscribe to our monthly student student groups, and through Study A welcome dinner connects international students with Australian residents over newsletter Melbourne. delicious food and conversations. Cook your favourite food or bring a dish from your • Follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, culture and share it at a potluck dinner. Be touched and entertained by stories of life, Come and say hi to us at the Study love and change from the people you meet. Find out how much our multicultural and and WeChat Melbourne Student Centre, in the multifaith communities have in common. You will be surprised. heart of Melbourne at 17 Hardware • Join our Facebook group – Lane. Our multilingual team can help International students of Participation is FREE! you find trustworthy information Melbourne and Victoria and support services. They can studymelbourne.vic.gov.au/insider answer your questions about health, accommodation, safety, work rights, Connect with us for more information and event updates and managing your finances. There’s also free wi-fi, a quiet space to study, Website: www.welcomedinnerproject.org and plenty of activities and events. Facebook: www.facebook.com/wdpvictoria Instagram: www.instagram.com/the_wdp INSIDERGUIDES.COM.AU 9
“ As someone studying art and humanities, I could not have chosen a better city. Melbourne is the art and culture capital of Australia! “ Ethel, Philippines Studying at the University of Melbourne Quick facts Royal origins Melbourne was named to honour former British prime minister, William Tram central Melbourne’s tram network is the largest outside Europe. There Culturally diverse Around one-third of Melbourne’s population was born overseas. “ I love living in Melbourne because everyone is enjoying Lamb, who lived in the are currently 450 trams The most common their life, and there’s tiny English village of travelling over 244 birthplaces are the Melbourne. kilometres of track. UK, India, China and a friendly and diverse Vietnam. culture where people respect each other. Home of invention There are several everyday items that were Sporting capital Melbourne is the birthplace of the Australia’s first pizza Toto’s was the first pizza restaurant to open Felycia, Indonesia Study Melbourne “ invented in Melbourne, Australian sport AFL in Australia. Setting student ambassador including aspirin, the and is the only city in up shop in 1961, the bionic ear, the black box the world to house five restaurant is still located flight recorder, dim sims, international standard in Carlton, an inner and Australia’s favourite sporting facilities. suburb of Melbourne spread, Vegemite! known as ‘Little Italy’. 10 STUDYMELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU • MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU INSIDERGUIDES.COM.AU 11
Must-do in Melbourne There are so many fun things to do in Melbourne, but here are a few you can’t leave the city without doing. 1. 2. Get a caffeine hit Explore the laneways and arcades Melbourne is famous for coffee, so nearly every cafe will serve a very good While you’re here, check out the street cup of it. art, cute cafes and local shopping boutiques. 3. 4. Watch a live AFL match Take in some live comedy Pick a team and enjoy Melbourne’s Melbourne is famous for hosting live favourite sport from the spectator stands. comedy throughout the year and at the annual Melbourne International Comedy Festival. 5. 6. See the city from the top Get arty You’ll find plenty of rooftop venues The city is Australia’s art capital. Check and observation decks in Melbourne, out the National Gallery of Victoria, including Naked for Satan, Rooftop Heide Museum of Modern Art and Cinema and Eureka Skydeck. smaller galleries around Melbourne. 12 STUDYMELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU • MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU INSIDERGUIDES.COM.AU 13
Your first week in Melbourne Amanpreet, India 1. 2. 3. Studying at Monash University “ FOR COFFEE I am a huge fan of the laneway cafes. They offer the best combination of artwork and food that satisfies both your eyes and P. 73 P. 41 P. 37 tastebuds. FOR BREAKFAST Buy a myki card Set up your bank Sort out your phone account Higher Ground on Little You’ll need a myki card You can use your existing Bourke St. I love the to get around on public This is crucial if you’re phone or buy a new one Benedict eggs, dry cured transport. Buy one from planning to work in in Australia, with the 7-11 stores and other Australia, but is also option of going prepaid ham, Emmental, bearnaise, selected retailers, as well useful for paying rent or signing up for a plan. sourdough and vinegar as some train stations. and other expenses. “Melbourne is a well-organised powder. city and just taking a walk FOR DINNER in the city on a sunny day is Grand Lafayette in Prahran 4. 5. 6. amazing. is the best Japanese on- table service buffet I have I like to try out different ever had. The scallops and cuisines, which are easy to find the fried chicken bao were in the restaurants situated in as good as they looked when P. 65 Southbank next to the Yarra the plate arrived. River. MAKE SURE TO Know the emergency Stock up your fridge Plan your studies CHECK OUT... number And nothing says Melbourne Once you’ve found Find out when classes better than Federation Square, Hosier Lane. With some If you need emergency your nearest grocery start, where your of the best artworks and assistance – police, fire store, stock up on basic campus is located (some which is also next to St. Pauls or ambulance – you can call Triple Zero (000), even when your phone ingredients and your favourite foods from home – they’ll help if you institutions are spread across several campuses) and when O-Week Cathedral and right across the road from Flinders Street Station.” Lane also offers a good shopping experience. “ graffiti in Melbourne, Hosier can’t get reception. get homesick during your kicks off. Make sure to store this first week! number in your phone. INSIDERGUIDES.COM.AU 15 14 STUDYMELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU • MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU INSIDERGUIDES.COM.AU 15
Make Study Melbourne part of your story Connect with Study Melbourne for everything you need to thrive as an international student in Melbourne and Victoria Visit the Study Melbourne Student Centre at 17 Hardware Lane, Melbourne Monday to Friday 9am-5pm 1800 056 449 (24 hour) Download the Unlock Melbourne app Subscribe to our monthly newsletter Get an iUse pass – 50% off public transport for eligible students Visit studymelbourne.vic.gov.au/insider and be part of a connected student community. Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne.
Improving your English If you’d like to continue improving your English during your time in Australia, there are a few tools and resources that can help. SPEAKING READING & LISTENING Join a conversation group. There WHAT RESOURCES ARE AVAILABLE TO Read in English every day. This are plenty of conversation groups HELP ME IMPROVE MY ENGLISH LANGUAGE SKILLS? includes websites, online news on Meetup.com, as well as at local outlets, newspapers, magazines libraries and community centres. and books. TITLE LINK WHAT IS IT? The City of Melbourne runs ESL Conversation Clubs. You can also Listen to English-language music A social way to practise your join English Conversation Clubs and podcasts, watch English- English skills. Run by every second English at the Study Melbourne Student language films, television shows www.refugeofhope.org.au Wednesday at the Study Melbourne Conversation Club Centre. and YouTube videos, and try to do Student Centre, 17 Hardware Lane, by so without subtitles! Refuge of Hope. Find a friend who also wants to Informal English language improve their English and only WRITING ESL Conversation www.melbourne.vic.gov.au conversation practice at City of chat to them in English - including Club Melbourne library branches. Write a daily journal in English. via text message, online, over the A platform full of English language It doesn’t matter what you write phone and in person. English Central www.englishcentral.com videos that progressively build your about, as long as it’s in English. comprehension. Make friends with people from Do little translation exercises. Watch well-crafted videos and other nationalities so you only Take a passage from a book or BBC Learning complete related activities to communicate in English. www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish article in your native language and English increase your knowledge of the Join a volunteer group or sports translate it into English, or do the English language. team so you can put your English reverse. Choose between native speakers and skills to good use. italki www.italki.com qualified tutors (more expensive) to have a 1-on-1 video chat with you. A website and mobile app, Busuu is a Busuu www.busuu.com social network of people learning new languages. 18 STUDYMELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU • MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU INSIDERGUIDES.COM.AU 19
GOING OUT EFTPOS (Noun/Acronym) Mozzie (Noun) Machine for electronic Mosquito Australian slang Arvo (Noun) Afternoon (card) payments. Stands for Electronic Funds ‘The mozzies are so bad in the summer.’ ‘Let’s catch up this arvo Transfer at Point Of Sale Rip-off (Adjective) for a coffee.’ ‘Luckily, the café has To cheat/something that’s EXPRESSING Keen (Adjective) EFTPOS, because I don’t Barbie (Noun) too expensive YOURSELF Excited for something have any cash.’ BBQ ‘This brunch is such a rip- ‘I’m so keen for the new ‘Let’s fire up the barbie Bottle-o (Noun) off - $18 for toast?!’ Aggro (Adjective) Quentin Tarantino film.’ Liquor store for dinner tonight.’ Servo (Noun) Angry, showing ‘I have to go and get some No worries (Idiom) Snag (Noun) Bathers (Noun) Service station/gas station aggression beer from the bottle-o.’ Don’t worry about it/it’s Sausage Swimming costume ‘On long drives I have to ‘He’s so aggro at the OK ‘For the best snags, I go to ‘Remember to bring your Macca’s (Noun) stop at the servo to buy moment, you should ‘You can’t come to the Bunnings Warehouse.’ bathers, my friend has a McDonald’s snacks.’ avoid him.’ party? No worries!’ pool.’ ‘I’m too tired to make Fair enough (Idiom) Shout (Verb) ______ as (Adverb) dinner, shall we go to Alright/OK Brekky (Noun) To pay for the next round Almost anything could go Macca’s instead?’ ‘You’ll be late? Fair Breakfast of drinks i.e. ‘it’s your here: busy as, awesome as, ‘I always have a big Mate (Noun) shout’ enough, traffic is bad tired as. To understand the brekky. I’m so hungry Friend (this can be used ‘I paid for the last round, today.’ speaker, just cut off the when I wake up in the passive-aggressively so it’s your shout this Feral (Adjective) ‘as’ and add ‘very’ to the Esky (Noun) though, so pay attention time.’ morning.’ Disgusting, something front and you’ll get what Ice cooler to the situation) repulsive they mean. ‘The esky will keep the Chemist (Noun) Spud (Noun) ‘I like her, she’s a good ‘I just saw someone ‘She’s been annoying as drinks cool while we swim.’ Drug store/pharmacy - A potato mate, she always has my drop their hot chips since she got back from ‘We should go pick up ‘I’d love a baked spud back.’ and then continue exchange – she won’t some Panadol from the with sour cream right to eat them off the stop talking about it.’ chemist.’ about now.’ ground - that’s so Heaps (Adjective) feral.’ A lot or very Hey? (Exclamation) ‘Wow, that show was Used at the end of Cuppa (Noun) WHILE STUDYING Good on ya (Exclamation) heaps good.’ Well done/good on you a sentence to ask if Hot beverage Chuck a sickie Full on (Adjective) Bludge (Intransitive Verb) ‘Congratulations on that someone agrees ‘A hot cuppa tea goes well (Phrasal verb) Intense/wild To not try your hardest HD! Good on ya!’ ‘You’re going out with biscuits.’ To fake a sick day from ‘Uni is so full on, I ‘He’s bludging uni, tonight, hey?’ work or study. How ya going/How’s it can’t keep up with my there’s no way he’ll ‘I can’t miss The Bachelor going? (Spoken phrase) She’ll be right (Idiom) assignments.’ graduate.’ tonight - I’ll just call work How are you? It will be fine SWOTVAC (Noun/ and chuck a sickie.’ ‘You missed the bus? Yeah, nah (Determiner) Reckon (Verb) Acronym) She’ll be right, there’ll – No Dodgy (Adjective) Think/figure/assume Study break/revision week be another one soon.’ Poor quality/not reliable/ ‘I reckon I’ll go for a run; Nah, yeah (Determiner) ‘I have so much revision Avo (Noun) suspicious I’ve been feeling lazy as.’ to do during SWOTVAC. – Yes Avocado ‘That website is dodgy, I shouldn’t have slacked Uni (Noun) ‘I love avo toast with I’m pretty sure it gave off so much during the University feta cheese.’ me a virus.’ semester.’ ‘Do you want to walk to uni together?’ 20 STUDYMELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU • MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU INSIDERGUIDES.COM.AU 21
Comparing your options Private rental $170-$550/wk This is true independent living; renting an apartment or a house, either alone or with housemates. Living with others is ideal for meeting new people and reducing your costs. However, if you decide to live alone, you will have to pay for everything and may get lonely (depending on your personality, of course). Rentals come either furnished or unfurnished. Note: Listed price is per room. Homestay $250-$350/wk Homestay involves staying with a family in their home with meals, internet and utilities covered by your host. It is a popular choice for a true Australian experience, and it also allows you to settle into your new life in Australia with the support of a family. Homestay can be both close to and some distance from your educational institution – make sure to check access and public transport options. Managed accommodation $200-$500/wk These large centres are full of apartments of varying sizes, generally one to five bedrooms. You will get a fully furnished bedroom with 24-hour support and internet included. Generally, student accommodation is conveniently located for students, is secure and safe, and boasts a real sense of community. The downside to this is the internet can slow down at peak times and the rooms can be on the smaller side. Residential college $450-$700/wk While they appear more expensive than other options, residential colleges do include a lot of extras. They’re usually located close to campus, your fully furnished bedroom will be cleaned weekly, study facilities and gyms are supplied, and the meals are included. The downside is that you often have to lock in a lease for 12 months and you may not need all the extras that you’re paying for. Accommodation LET US HELP YOU FIND YOUR ACCOMMODATION The Insider Guides website now has an accommodation finder. We can help you find the perfect place to suit your needs and budget. www.insiderguides.com.au/accommodation-finder 22 STUDYMELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU • MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU INSIDERGUIDES.COM.AU 23
THE Before you take out a lease on a property SIMPLE ENSURE YOU HAVE ENOUGH MONEY TO COVER THE BOND ARRANGE A REFERENCE OR GUARANTOR INSPECT THE PROPERTY BEFORE YOU SIGN A CONTRACT WAY OR PAY A DEPOSIT PHOTOGRAPH ANY EXISTING DAMAGE OR ISSUES TO GET MAKE SURE YOU RECEIVE, AND KEEP, A COPY OF YOUR RENTAL AGREEMENT AND RECEIVE A RECEIPT FOR ALL RENT AND BOND PAYMENTS CONNECTED PAY ATTENTION TO DETAILS REGARDING THE END OF YOUR RENTAL AGREEMENT Other factors to consider when selecting accommodation HOW CLOSE IS IT TO YOUR STUDY INSTITUTION? HOW CLOSE IS IT TO PUBLIC TRANSPORT AND WHAT WILL THE TRAVEL COST BE? Fast Connect offers a free service to get your phone, internet, WHAT IS NEARBY? (SHOPS, HOSPITALS, electricity, gas and Pay-TV set up for when you move POLICE STATIONS, PARKS) into your new home. 50 IS THERE ADEQUATE HEATING AND COOLING? — Free service $ IS IT NOISY? IS THE AREA SAFE AND IS THE BUILDING SECURE? — No lock-in contracts — Stress free and secure WHAT WILL THE INSURANCE COSTS BE? — Easy online application DOES EVERYTHING WORK? (SMOKE ALARMS, APPLIANCES, LIGHT SWITCHES) — Phone and email support CREDIT — Choice of top Australian retailers PROMO CODE: As Australia’s longest established IGVIC connections service provider Receive a $50 credit to your CONNECTING UTILITIES IN YOUR NEW HOME looking after many students account when you connect your electricity and/or gas through Companies like Fast Connect can organise your phone, internet, electricity, and their families, we can be Fast Connect in VIC.* gas and Pay-TV, all through a single service. trusted to get you connected. *Terms & conditions apply. www.fastconnect.net.au www.fastconnect.net.au 24 STUDYMELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU • MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU
Housemates’ code Sharing a house with others can be a really fun experience. Use these tips to ensure a happy and harmonious household. 1. 2. 3. Food Guests Cleaning Establish early on Communication with Consider creating a how groceries will be your housemates is cleaning roster, noting purchased and make crucial when it comes that some housemates it clear what food is to guests. Guidelines to may prefer certain shared. Avoid eating any consider include when/ tasks. You will still be food that isn’t yours or how long they should be responsible for doing designated as shared. there and which areas/ your own dishes and rooms are shared spaces. laundry, and keeping your room tidy. 4. 5. 6. Rent Bills Moving out Make sure rent is paid Have a plan for how bills If someone decides to on-time to the right are divided up and paid. move out, establish person. You might be One person is generally the process involved. paying rent to a head responsible for managing Determine how much housemate or making bills, but like rent, make notice they need to give individual payments to sure they’re paid on-time and whether you need the real estate agent or to avoid housemate to alert your property landlord. disputes. manager or landlord. 26 STUDYMELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU • MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU
What support services are available international students. IMCL has also created a series of illustrated stories, HOW MUCH WILL MY BOND BE? for renters in Victoria? specifically for international students You will need to pay a bond in advance that will be returned at the end of your Consumer Affairs Victoria can help you living in Victoria, to explain what to agreement if no damage has occurred and your rental payments are up to date. understand your rights when renting a do (and who to contact) in several This bond is not legally allowed to be more than one month’s rent if the rent is room, apartment or house in Victoria. common circumstances. $350 a week or less but can be more if the rent is more than $350 a week. Visit the Consumer Affairs Victoria website to learn about bonds, condition www.imcl.org.au Make sure you receive a receipt for all money given to your landlord or real reports and where you can ask for help Otherwise, Study Melbourne’s estate agent, including the bond, and a bond authority lodgment notice from the with accommodation issues before and International Students’ Housing and Residential Tenancies Bond Authority. after you arrive. Accommodation Legal Service is a free, www.consumer.vic.gov.au confidential and independent legal service, provided by lawyers, to help How to pay rent • The photos or description of the Inner Melbourne Community Legal international students. Call 1800 056 property don’t match the reality on (IMCL) provides free legal services to There are a few different ways to pay 449 to make an appointment. inspection rent in Australia. These include direct debit (bank), BPAY (a type of electronic • The landlord or agent makes excuses payment), or paying in person with that you can’t view the property, such Can I get a pet as an to it when you return home and the card or cash. Your real estage agent or as saying they are overseas international student? amount of money you have to properly landlord will sometimes offer a range of • The landlord or agent requests money take care of it should all be part of your options or request only one. If you are considering getting a pet, via money transfer you need to make sure you have done decision to get a pet. You also need Rental scams to make sure you know the rules and • The scammers may try to appear research into the type of pet that would genuine by providing photos, real requirements of pet ownership. They Unfortunately, rental scams can occur in be suitable to your situation. Pets can addresses of properties, copies of may be different from what you are Australia. But, there are a few things to be fantastic, however there are a few land titles, and even scans of stolen used to and you may get into trouble if look out for so you can protect yourself. things you need to think about before passports. Scammers also ask for getting one. Things like the size of your you don’t follow them. Be careful of offers that sound too good personal details – such as bank and pet, where it will live, how much time to be true. Ask advice from trusted credit card numbers – which they use you can spend with it, what will happen www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/pets friends, or your school or agent, if you for credit card and identity fraud see any of the following warning signs: • Make sure you always inspect the • The rent is a lot cheaper than other property in person (or via Skype if A message from Crime Stoppers Victoria & DELWP Victoria similar accommodation in the area you can’t attend) and don’t send any Victoria is full of cute creatures, many of which you’re bound to encounter during • You are asked to sign a lease or pay a money via money transfer your time here. Seeing a native animal for the first time is a special experience bond or deposit before you have seen and we kindly ask that you appreciate from a distance. Native wildlife in Victoria the property is protected for many reasons - including the safety of wildlife watchers - like yourself! Native animals are not to be taken as pets and serious penalties apply for keeping, selling or exporting Australian wildlife. If you have an exotic pet that has come from overseas or originates from overseas, Australia has strict importation COST OF LIVING CALCULATOR laws and serious penalties apply if you bring these exotic pets into Australia Want to work out your budget? Use illegally. For more information, please visit: our Cost of Living Calculator to receive www.wildlife.vic.gov.au a customised breakdown of your expected costs in Melbourne. www.insiderguides.com.au/colc 28 STUDYMELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU • MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU INSIDERGUIDES.COM.AU 29
Giveaway time! Want to enjoy Australia like a local? Win free tickets to events, sporting matches, experiences and more! Head to our website for more information INSIDERGUIDES.COM.AU/GIVEAWAYS
Setting up your house There are plenty of stores and online marketplaces in Australia offering affordable furniture and other home items. Here’s our guide to some of the best. FURNITURE STORES FACEBOOK There are two IKEA stores located Facebook is a great resource for in Melbourne (Richmond and buying (and selling) furniture Springvale), where you can find and homewares. Facebook reasonably-priced furniture and Marketplace is full of second- homewares. Fantastic Furniture hand furniture, appliances, and Amart are also good options decorative pieces, cookware, and for larger items, with locations even clothing, electronics, and around the city. hundreds of other items. SECOND-HAND STORES DEPARTMENT STORES If you’re looking for one-of-a- Look for your nearest Kmart, kind, affordable furnishings and Target, Big W or Spotlight – home items, second-hand stores these stores sell everything are fantastic places to look. from furniture and lighting to Melbourne is home to several kitchenware and bedding at low Vinnies, Salvos and Savers stores, prices. as well as independent second- BUY, SWAP, SELL hand shops and boutiques. You’ll find plenty of buy, swap, ONLINE MARKETPLACES sell groups on Facebook that are In Australia, Gumtree and eBay dedicated to particular suburbs are two of the biggest online around Melbourne. There are marketplaces for new and used also websites such as Ziilch and furniture and home goods. On Freecycle. Gumtree, you’ll often find people giving things away for free. 32 STUDYMELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU • MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU
Important steps Once you’ve moved into your new home, there are a few things you’ll need to do. 1. Notify your bank, employer, 3. Tell your friends and family education provider and OSHC back home where you’re living. provider of your new address. They probably want to know Your student visa requires that you’re in a safe place and you to update your education they may want to send mail provider within seven days of from time to time. arriving in Australia or moving 4. Think about home and to a new address. contents insurance. If you’re 2. Get to know your local area living in your own apartment and council. Find out where or house, or have joined an your nearest medical centre, existing share house, you shops, public transport hubs, might want to purchase home fitness facilities and more are and contents insurance to located. Learn about waste protect your belongings from disposal in your area, including theft or damage. recycling and composting 5. Check your home is in working options. Check out your local order. Make sure things like council’s website for more hot water, taps and switches information. work. If there are any faults or issues, notify your agent or landlord. 34 STUDYMELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU • MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU
Mobile phones Plan vs prepaid Prepaid involves buying credit for your phone and topping up each week or month. This way, you can control how much you spend. It’s a great option if you’re in Australia for a short time. If you’ll be here for over 12 months, you may want to consider a ‘plan’ or a ‘contract’, which is a set payment per month to use the network. Usually, you will get more phone calls and data this way than through prepaid options. What should I watch out for? Read your contract, or the terms and conditions, closely to make sure you understand any additional charges that can be applied. Another thing to be aware of is extra subscriptions that may come with the service. If the overall deals between phone providers are similar, then consider if you would save money by having free access to another service. For example, the plan may come with free sport streaming, Spotify or Netflix. How do I get started? • An Australian bank statement or rental agreement For both prepaid and plan options, head to one of the phone shops we’ve • Your student visa details listed below. To get started, you’ll need • Proof of identity, such as your some documents to prove who you are. passport Factors to consider before signing a phone contract WHERE CAN I BUY A HOW LONG IS THE CONTRACT? NEW MOBILE PHONE OR SIM CARD, OR SIGN UP HOW MANY MINUTES OF PHONE CALLS DO I FOR A PLAN? GET (AND ARE INTERNATIONAL CALLS INCLUD- ED)? There are several mobile phone providers in Australia WHAT IS THE MONTHLY DATA LIMIT AND HOW that sell phones and/or MUCH EXTRA WILL I BE CHARGED FOR GOING OVER THE LIMIT? SIM cards, offering both plans and prepaid options. HOW MUCH WILL I BE CHARGED IF I NEED TO Some of the most popular Communication END THE CONTRACT EARLY? providers include Vodafone, WHAT EXTRAS/DISCOUNTS/SUBSCRIPTIONS Telstra, Optus, Virgin Mobile, ARE INCLUDED? Amaysim, Boost Mobile and HOW GOOD IS THE NETWORK COVERAGE? Vaya. WILL I BE CHARGED EXTRA FOR PAYING BILLS IN A CERTAIN WAY (E.G. CREDIT CARD)? 36 STUDYMELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU • MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU INSIDERGUIDES.COM.AU 37
Internet How do I arrange home internet? After you’ve chosen an internet provider, setting up your home internet There are several home internet is easy. You can buy your own modem providers in Australia including Optus, or purchase one through your provider. TPG, Telstra, iiNet, Belong and more. They’ll then provide you with all of the Services like Compare Broadband are a necessary steps required to finish your good starting point if you are unsure of pricing and the options available in your set-up. Australia is gradually connecting to Streaming options area. Month-by-month and six-month the National Broadband Network contracts are becoming more common. (NBN), a process that is expected to Netflix (netflix.com) They work for students in regards to be completed this year. But, note that contract length but cost more than 12 Netflix provides on-demand access to a range of local and international shows. speeds in many locations are still quite or 24-month contracts. You can watch on smart TVs, gaming consoles, Apple TV and Chromecast, mobile slow, especially if you come from a country with fast internet. devices, and computers. From $9.99/month. www.comparebroadband.com.au Foxtel Now (foxtel.com.au/now) and Stan (stan.com.au) Both available on computers, smart TVs, Chromecast and gaming consoles. The Free wi-fi in Melbourne Foxtel Now app allows you to sign up for the subscription service, Foxtel, without Melbourne offers free wi-fi in certain parts of the city, including on CBD train any installation costs or contracts. Foxtel is a good choice if you want to access platforms. You’ll also find free wi-fi at Melbourne Airport – ideal if you’ve just live sport. Stan is an Australian subscription service that offers an extensive back arrived in Australia and need internet to navigate your way into catalogue of local and international content. From $25/month (Foxtel) & $10/ the city. month (Stan). Public libraries, museums (including the NGV) and community centres usually offer free wi-fi too, and you’ll find that many cafes around Melbourne give decent Sport streaming services internet access (either for free or with purchase). Kayo is the most popular streaming service for sport content, with over 50 sports The Study Melbourne Student Centre also provides free wi-fi, as well as several available. It works by streaming from popular sport channels including ESPN other study facilities. and Fox Sports. Prices start at $25/month. Optus Sport has the rights for the English Premier League and UEFA Champions and Europa Leagues. These games can be watched on mobile devices or on Chromecast, Fetch TV or Apple TV. It is How do I arrange mobile broadband? free for most Optus customers or $14.99/month for non-Optus customers. AFL (Australian Rules Football), A-League (Football/Soccer), NRL (Rugby League) and If you can’t get a hotspot using your phone and want a good connection for your Super Netball can be streamed on mobile devices through Telstra. These have device, an easy solution is mobile broadband. Visit a Vodafone, Optus or Telstra varying prices for non-customers but are free to Telstra customers. store and pick up a 4G modem - they start at around $15-20 per month, but prepaid options are also available. ABC iview, SBS On Demand, 7plus, 9Now, 10 Play Free! The main free-to-air stations in Australia all have apps available that allow you to watch their shows on demand. These apps are free to download and use, but most of them do contain advertising. 38 STUDYMELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU • MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU INSIDERGUIDES.COM.AU 39
Banks in Australia Why do I need an Australian from employment or a scholarship bank account? will need to be paid directly into an Australian account. Opening an Australian bank account will enable you to earn money in Additionally, you will easily be able to Australia. Any payment you receive access funds without attracting fees for international transfers. How do I set up You can use a basic day-to-day account a bank account? to pay for course fees, rent or daily living costs. This step is easy. There are several banks to choose from in Australia. What should I bring with me? When you arrive in Australia, simply PASSPORT OR BIRTH CERTIFICATE head to your chosen bank and let them NATIONAL IDENTITY CARD know you’re an international student (IF YOU HAVE ONE) and would like to open an account. You will need to bring some important PROOF OF AUSTRALIAN ADDRESS documents. You will be provided with (CAN BE A HOUSEHOLD BILL) access to a day-to-day account and an PROOF OF ENROLMENT online savings account. Once you have been identified, you will Note - It is not necessary to have a Tax be provided with a debit card, allowing File Number to get a bank account, but you to shop across Australia and online without one you will get taxed up to 48% without paying additional fees. (approximately) on the interest your money earns in the bank account. Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs), contactless payment and PayID Your debit card allows you to withdraw cash from most ATMs across Australia. Note that using an ATM that’s not from your bank may incur a fee. You don’t always need to use your debit card though; you can also set up contactless payments so you can pay for things using your mobile phone, meaning you don’t Money need to carry a card around. PayID is another way to make payments that uses either your mobile number or email address. Ask your bank for more information. & Banking Can I get an Australian credit card If you’re determined to get an Australian credit card, talk to your as an international student? nearest bank branch. In most cases, you It’s a little more complicated to get a will need to undergo a credit check and credit card as an international student, meet certain requirements. as most Australian banks require you to be on a particular visa and earning a minimum amount of money per year. 40 STUDYMELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU • MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU INSIDERGUIDES.COM.AU 41
Managing your money How do I manage don’t really need, like buying a coffee my budget? every day vs making one at home. Then, download an app like Pocketbook on The first thing you need to do is get an your phone, and sync up your bank understanding of your current financial accounts so you can start tracking and position. Predict and list all your setting goals for spending and saving. income and expenses for the next three to six months as best you can. Then, it’s Use ASIC’s free budgeting tool to get time to think about ways to improve it. started. Think about the things that add a lot www.moneysmart.gov.au of value versus what you pay for but What resources are available if I am facing financial difficulties? If you are having any difficulties with your finances, your first contact should be your educational institution. They have qualified staff available to help and can point you in the right direction for support. If you are experiencing financial hardship then you may be able to apply to pay your tuition in instalments. You can also use the MoneyHelp service if you need financial counselling. www.moneyhelp.org.au Where can I seek help for There are a number of resources gambling? available to help you beat your gambling addiction, including Gambling can be addictive, which Gambler’s Help Victoria, Gambling not only affects your health, but your Help Online and Chinese Peer finances too. To get an accurate picture Connection (for Chinese speakers). of how much gambling is costing you, use the calculator on the Gambler’s www.gamblinghelponline.org.au Help website. www.each.com.au www.gamblershelp.com.au THE COST OF LIVING PERSONALISE YOUR EXPENSES CALCULATOR COMPARE AUSTRALIAN CITIES Need to work out a budget ASSESS THE PRICES IN MULTIPLE for your time in Australia? The CURRENCIES Insider Guides Cost of Living Calculator lets you work out SAVE YOUR RESULTS FOR LATER how much you’ll likely be spending in Melbourne. www.insiderguides.com.au/colc 42 STUDYMELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU • MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU
Transferring funds Australia’s way to pay bills Setting up your new life in Australia is an exciting process, but it does come with a lot of expenses. You will need to pay course fees to your institution, buy textbooks, pay your accommodation costs, pay your bills every month, and have access to your money for everyday spending. This can mean a lot of transactions. There are many different ways to send and receive funds; with a little research, you can find the best solution to suit you. Send and recieve money from home PayPal is perhaps the most well- known money transfer system, but it If you have internet banking set up with does attract a currency conversion your bank, you can easily receive funds fee. Otherwise, you can check out from home or send money overseas. dedicated international money transfer Just make sure you have all the required services like Western Union, Cohort Go codes (SWIFT, Sort and, for Europeans, and Flywire. IBAN) and the correct account numbers. Bank accounts are best for A prepaid credit card is a great way transferring small amounts and paying to receive money from home for daily your everyday expenses. If you are expenses and not fall into the trap of transferring larger amounts of money spending more money than you have in and want a better exchange rate with your budget. Companies like Vasco Pay lower fees, you may want to consider offer prepaid cards designed just for When it comes to paying your bills think BPAY ®. other services. students, as well as additional services like weekly discounts so you can get a We are uniquely Australian and trusted by Australians. Money transfer companies provide a bit of extra spending power. fast option to send and receive money overseas in minutes. If you shop around, specialist international money transfer companies will often give you a better deal on currency exchange rates than How to pay with BPAY your bank. Pay your education expenses and BPAY is an electronic bill payment other bills system that enables secure payment for many different expenses, like your Student payment services are a secure monthly mobile phone or other utility Bill Bank Done! way to make payments to educational bills. Look for the BPAY reference Find the B PAY biller code Log in to your online Select B PAY, your preferred institutions, insurance, accommodation number on your bill and then select the and CRN on your bill. or mobile banking. account, enter the B PAY details, amount and or other education service providers, BPAY option on your internet, mobile payment date. or to your own bank account for living or phone banking account to make your expenses. Companies like Cohort payment. Go and Flywire offer great foreign exchange rates and make paying for Published by BPAY Pty Ltd (ABN 69 079 137 518) (Phone (02) 9646 9222; email: marketing@bpay.com.au). The BPAY Scheme is managed by BPAY Pty Ltd. B PAY Payments are offered by over 150 B PAY Scheme members. When you use B PAY the B PAY Scheme is paid fees relating to processing costs and B PAY your education expenses easy. Scheme membership. Contact your financial institution to see if it offers B PAY and to get the terms and conditions. Any financial product advice provided by B PAY Pty Ltd in relation to B PAY payment products is general advice only and has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on such advice, you should review the Product Disclosure Statement and consider whether B PAY payment products are appropriate for your personal circumstances. 44 STUDYMELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU • MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU
Employment basics Can I work while studying? While on a student visa, you can work up to 40 hours per fortnight during the semester and unlimited hours during semester breaks. A fortnight means 14 days. Australia has laws guaranteeing basic workplace rights, including minimum pay and conditions. We’ll go into these later in the guide. What do I need to know about tax? Before working in Australia, it is crucial to obtain a Tax File Number (TFN). Your TFN will ensure that you get taxed at the correct rate for the amount of work you are doing. Australia has a tax-free threshold of $18,200, meaning you will pay no tax if you earn less than this amount in one year. If you have any tax taken from your earnings, you will need to complete a tax return at the end of the financial year. Do I need an Australian Business Number (ABN)? You don’t need an ABN to work for an Australian employer. You only need one if you’re an independent contractor, like a freelancer. www.fairwork.gov.au/find-help-for/independent-contractors What is superannuation? Often known as ‘super’, it is a financial contribution towards a fund that you use to live on when you retire. You can contribute to your own fund, but most commonly your employer does this. If you are an employee, the law in Australia says you are entitled to receive super from your employer. If you earn over $450 (before tax) in the calendar month, your employer must contribute at least 9.5% of your earnings to your nominated super fund. This is in addition to your ordinary wage. You can also claim super when you leave Australia. www.ato.gov.au/individuals/super Internships and work experience Employment An internship may be a compulsory part of your degree, or you might just want a bit of extra professional experience to improve your resume. Check with your institution’s career centre for options for arranging an internship or work experience. 46 STUDYMELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU • MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU INSIDERGUIDES.COM.AU 47
WHY SHOULD I VOLUNTEER? Volunteering will provide you with a vast range of soft Learn How to Find a Job in Australia skills, improve your ability to communicate, allow you to make new friends, and help you integrate with your new community. Your university may have a volunteering office, but if not, seek help at the careers office. Off- campus volunteering may take you further into the local community and allow you to learn about Australian customs. The experience you develop through volunteering can be of great advantage when you apply for a professional role. Online training tailored to teach you how to: www.volunteeringvictoria.org.au Ê apply for part time work while studying Ê apply for an internship Ê apply for full time graduate work GETTING A JOB AFTER YOU GRADUATE After you graduate, you can apply for a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) which will let you live, study and work in Australia for a set number of years depending on the education level you complete. JOB READINESS TRAINING FOR In your final year you will be able to apply for graduate STUDENTS AND GRADUATES positions with a range of organisations. Employers have the opportunity to sponsor your visa, too. See the Department of Home Affairs website for more information. www.homeaffairs.gov.au FREE: 7 Steps to To learn more about employability skills, we recommend reviewing the International Education Association of Job Readiness Australia (IEAA) International Employability Guide. www.ieaa.org.au/research/employability Webinar WHERE SHOULD I international students to find LOOK FOR A PART-TIME/ appropriate roles while studying in REGISTER NOW AT: CASUAL JOB? Australia. successfulgraduate.com/ Many international students use the www.seek.com.au 7-steps popular website Seek to find jobs. Other large popular sites include www.careerone.com.au Career One and Indeed. OneShift au.indeed.com Jobs and Spot Jobs are also great places to look. These student- au.oneshiftjobs.com oriented sites make it easier for www.spotjobs.com 48 STUDYMELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU • MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU
How do I write a résumé? Prove yourself with your selfie. The basics of a résumé include your contact details, previous work history and, for students and recent graduates, information on your education. Include at least one reference; this should be a previous employer or someone who knows your work or study ethic. Speak to a friendly tutor if you need them to be a reference. Your résumé and cover letter should be targeted for a particular role; don’t use the same generic versions for all jobs. Keep it as concise as possible and get somebody to proofread it for you. The Study With Australia Post Digital iD™ , Use Keypass in Digital iD™ to enter participating licensed Melbourne Student Centre offers one-on-one résumé help sessions every Tuesday your identity has gone digital. venues or purchase alcohol in Vic, and Thursday if you need feedback on your résumé. Tas, ACT, Qld, and NT (excluding We have underlined the errors in the following résumé in red. Use your phone to prove you’re takeaway alcohol in NT). over 18 when heading out to Show your Digital iD™ to collect PERSONAL INFORMATION Avoid including your date of birth participating venues in Victoria. a parcel from the Post Office. or particularly personal information Ms Jane Lee like your height/weight, marital Prove who you are online 2019 Guides Street status or religion. You also don’t need wherever Digital iD™ is accepted. to include your visa status, as you X Email - iloveponies27@hotmail.com should have working rights anyway. Ph (01) 2345 6789 Make sure your email address is X DOB - 01/02/03 professional. X Height - 250cm Weight - 170kg Visa - Student Carefully proofread your résumé to X Marital Status - Divorced eliminate all typos and other errors. X Religion - Jedi Highlight your responsibilities in the role and, where relevant, showcase EMPLOYMENT HISTORY any significant achievements X Shop Asistant (awards, beating targets etc.). Insider Shop Jan 2017 - Present If you haven’t graduated yet, list Responsibilities: Handling Money your expected completion date. Key Achievements: Staff Award You certainly don’t need to include your primary school education. High school is definitely optional, but EDUCATION HISTORY won’t look out of place if you want to highlight your history of high Bachelor of Arts - Insider University achievement. X Insider Primary School Responsible Service of Alcohol Certificate Include short courses if you believe 2017 they are relevant or beneficial to the role you are applying for. Find out more at DigitaliD.com 50 STUDYMELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU • MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU
WORKPLACE Am I getting the right pay? Want to work while you study ? EXPLOITATION As an international student, you have the It’s important that you same workplace rights as all workers in Australia. The Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) Know your workplace rights understand your rights at work. There are a few things to be can help if you have concerns about pay, aware of to ensure you don’t leave or how you’re treated at work. end up being exploited by your www.fairwork.gov.au has information in ? employer. different languages to help you understand ending employment your work rights. Check if you are getting pay rates public holidays 1. Avoid job ads that look the right pay and entitlements using the Fair suspicious. Make sure Work Ombudsman’s Pay And Conditions breaks sick leave they mention the business Tool (PACT) at www.fairwork.gov.au/PACT. name and look it up on the penalties payslips Australian Business Name You can contact the FWO for help without cash-in-hand deductions fear of your visa being cancelled, as long as register (abr.business.gov.au) certain conditions are met. See unpaid work internships 2. Minimum wage is currently www.fairwork.gov.au/internationalstudents annual leave award coverage set at $19.49 or $24.36 for for more information. hours of work language help casuals, and may go up in July 2020. The FWO’s anonymous reporting tool at sham contracting www.fairwork.gov.au/tipoff lets you report flexible work 3. You should be paid at least a workplace issue without providing your once a month, receiving a personal information. It’s available in 17 payslip within one working languages. The FWO’s record my hours app day of being paid. makes it easy to record the hours you’ve worked. Download it now from the App 4. You should always be paid for work that you do, including Store or get it on Google Play! International students have the same training and trial shifts. Record your hours to make You can visit www.fairwork.gov.au or call the FWO on 13 13 94. To speak your language workplace rights as all workers in Australia sure you’re being paid in full. you can call the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) on 13 14 50. Tell the operator 5. Employers are not allowed the language you speak and ask them to The Fair Work Ombudsman is the government agency that can help you understand to give you goods or services call the FWO on 13 13 94. Contacting and Australian workplace laws, and resolve workplace issues. (including food) instead of getting help from the FWO is FREE! pay. The Fair Work Ombudsman provides FREE services to all employers and employees in Australia, including international students. STUDY MELBOURNE STUDENT CENTRE You can find more information at: If you think you need employment support, you can seek advice from Study Melbourne’s International Students Work Rights Legal Service. For more www.fairwork.gov.au or call us on 13 13 94 information, or to make an appointment: (13 14 50 for the Translating and Interpreting Service) Email info@studymelbourne.vic.gov.au or call 1800 056 449 facebook.com/ Your educational institution may also have an employment or welfare support fairwork.gov.au service – check their website for more information. @fairwork_gov_au FairworkGovAu 52 STUDYMELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU • MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU
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