Location:
Australia is an island nation that is located in the southern part of the Pacific Ocean. Australia is located to the southeast of the mainland Asian continent and to the southwest of North America
Capital:
Canberra
Major Cities/ Counties:
Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide
Main Language: English Climate :
The climate varies widely due to its large geographical size, but by far the largest part of Australia is desert or semi-arid. Only the south-east and south-west corners have a temperate climate and moderately fertile soil. The northern part of the country has a tropical climate, varied between tropical rainforests, grasslands and part desert.
Economy GDP:
1.205 trillion USD (2016) Currency: Australian dollar (AUD)
Government:
The Australian Constitution creates a democratic legislature, the dual Parliament of Australia which consists of the Queen of Australia, and two houses of parliament, the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Constitution provides for the Commonwealth Government’s legislative powers and allocates certain powers and responsibilities (known as “heads of power”) to the Commonwealth government. All remaining responsibilities are retained by the six States (previously separate colonies). Further, each State has its own constitution, so that Australia has seven sovereign Parliaments, none of which can encroach on the functions of any other.
Area:
7.692 million km² Distance from India: 10- 12 hours approx.
Population:
24.13 million (2016) Time Zone: UTC + 10 (Australian Eastern Time Zone)
Australia is currently the third most popular destination for international students in the English-speaking world.
For a country with a relatively small number of universities, Australia offers a truly world-class education and regularly features in global rankings.
Seven Australian universities placed in the top 100 in the latest QS World University Rankings Australia’s standard of living is amongst the highest in the world.
International students are able to work part time while they study, allowing them to offset their living costs. There is also the possibility of scholarships, which can help to lower the cost of studying in Australia for international students. Institutions in Australia offer a wide variety of courses and degrees, so international students can easily find the school and field that are right for them.
One of the most appealing aspect of the country for international students is the quality of scientific research. Australia is at the forefront of new technology and innovations.
Australian qualifications are recognized by employers and leading educational institutions in many countries around the world. Moreover, most courses and training undertaken by international students in Australia are covered by Australian Qualification Framework (AQF).
It is a system of learning which is authorized by the Australian government. Australia offers job facilities in multiple disciplines. Be it in agriculture or aeronautics, accounts or actuaries, Australia offer work permits to international students like none other.
Traditions & Culture:Australian culture is as broad and varied as the country’s landscape. Australia is multicultural and multiracial and this is reflected in the country’s food, lifestyle and cultural practices and experience. Australia has an important heritage from its indigenous people, which plays a defining role in the cultural landscape. This diversity of influences creates a cultural environment in Australia that is lively, energized, innovative and outward looking.
Food:
The meat pies and pasties had their connection to what was considered the staple foods of the 1800s: beef or mutton (the meat of adult sheep) flour, usually made into bread or damper, a dense, thick bread tea, considered a necessity, even when other items were scarce.
Safety:
While Australia is generally a safe place to live and study, it is still important that you take precautions to reduce the chance of an incident occurring. The 2011 OECD Better Life Index rated Australia 9.3 out of 10 for safety, one of the highest ratings awarded to any country. Following your common sense and best practices will ensure you remain safe and healthy, whether you are handling emergencies, personal and home safety, or natural elements such as sun, water, and fire.
Welfare: Universities provide free and confidential support and assistance to help students develop practical skills to better manage time, money and personal issues. Officials’ help students develop strategies to concentrate on studies and get the most out of university life.
Health: Healthcare in Australia has been steadily improving over the last ten years. Visitors in Australia under a student visa are required to take out Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) during their stay.
Transport: The transport options available in Australia include buses, trains, trams and ferries. Your access to these transport services will vary depending on where you live. You will also be able to access private and public car services from taxis to hired limousines, available to take you from door to door. If you hold a current drivers licence in your home country, you might be able to drive in Australia without sitting for any further driving tests. But remember that many state and territory governments require you to get an Australian drivers licence if you are there for more than three months.
Under Graduate Studies: A$ 30,000 – A$ 40,000 per year
Post Graduate Studies: A$ 30,000 – A$ 40,000 per year
Living Expenses as per the Australia High Commission visa guidelines: 21,000 A$ – 22,000 A$ approx
Basics:
Visa Requirement Good academics IELTS Score as suggested in the English language requirement Finances to support education as per the living expenses guideline given under living expenses
Genuine Intentions to Study in Australia Immigration on
Arrival: Your passport will be checked when you arrive at the airport to make sure you’re allowed to come into the country.
It must be valid for the whole of your stay.
Planning & Housing:
Whilst you are staying in the Australia, you will have a variety of accommodation options available to you. Your choices will depend largely on whether your college or university has halls of residence, what city you are located in, and the amount of your monthly budget. Various options includes Halls of Residence, Self- Catered Halls, Flats/ Houses.
Welcome week:
Welcome Week is your opportunity to make friends, learn more about studying at the university and living in the country. You will be invited to attend a number of events throughout Welcome Week – some of which are optional and others compulsory.
Travel to your institution:
If you are staying near the university, there is shuttle service available. Else, you may choose to travel by trains or buses. Opening a bank account: In order to open a Australian bank account, you will need two documents: one to prove your identity and one to prove your address. This applies both in branch and online. Proving your identity is simple. You just need your passport.
Can you work?
Yes What kind of work can you do?Many companies hire international students with no questions asked, especially if you are looking at retail, hospitality, tourism, agriculture, and administration jobs. You could also get an apprenticeship with a tradesman, or you may even be able to find a job at the university that you are attending.
Do you need prior approval when you work?
No About Tax?In order to work in Australia, international students need to get a Tax File Number (TFN). Students who wish to work during their studies in Australia should first visit the Australian Taxation Office to get their TFN.
Full Time:
The Post-Study Work stream offers extended options for working in Australia to eligible graduates of a higher education degree. Under this stream, successful applicants are granted a visa with a visa period of two, three or four years’ duration, depending on the highest educational qualification they have obtained.
How to find a job?
Career Services
Your university will offer a range of career support services to students, including some for international students such as yourself. They will be able to help you with your job search, resume, and applications. You should also be able to attend workshops that focus on skills that will help you to improve your employability, such as interview and communication skills. Your university may also offer special career events, such as expos or lectures where you can hear from employers in your area of study.
Networking
Keeping in touch with your classmates and instructors may be vital in finding a job, especially if they have connections to a particular employer and can recommend you. This way you will be more likely to hear about employment opportunities and receive advice about working in your field. A good way to start networking is to join clubs and societies on campus that are related to your field; this will also help you to gain valuable skills such as effective communication, teamwork, and accountability.
Average Salary?
A$ 45, 000- A$ 55, 000 per annum
Useful Links
www.oecd.org cricos.deewr.gov.au
www.topuniversities.com/university-rankings
www.topuniversities.com/city-rankings
www.australiaawards.gov.au
www.timeshighereducation.co.uk
www.smartestinvestment.com.au
http://www.australia.gov.au/
https://www.border.gov.au/