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International Student Population
Australia attracts international students from multiple countries around the world, making it a truly diverse nation. This is reflected in numbers too. In 2018-19, 1,07,673 Indian students enrolled to study in Australia. Of the total student visas granted by Australia in 2019, India stood at the second spot just after China.
Country and Cities Population
With a population of around 25,505,429, Australia accounts for 0.33% of the total world population. This means that the country is sparsely populated and offers a great lifestyle to its people.
Top Australian cities based on their population are:
1. Sydney
2. Melbourne
3. Brisbane
4. Perth
5. Adelaide
Demographic
Thanks to its top-quality health infrastructure, the average life expectancy of a person living in Australia is 83.94 years.
Domestic Travel
Despite being the sixth-largest country in the world by land area, it is easy for international students to move around in Australia. For domestic travel, you can either use planes, buses, trains, or ferries.
You can read more details about travel and transport here.
Air
Domestic airlines in Australia connect all major state capitals and regional cities. Air travel is the best mode of transport if you want to cover vast distances in a shorter time. If you are lucky enough to grab the window seat then you can witness the mesmerizing view of the ocean, the cityscape, and more.
Train
Affordable and convenient train travel lets you explore some of the most spectacular sights in Australia. Capture some of the most scenic routes down under while you travel through the wilderness.
Bus
Bus travel provides an affordable means of transportation to international students. Students opt for buses as they are the best means of public commute and keep you connected to the major parts of the city.
Ferry
Several ferry services operate in Australia to ease commutation across rivers. This is an experience in itself since Australia has so many serene visuals to offer when you take a ferry for your commute.
International travel
Being an island nation, the primary mode of international travel to Australia is by air. Several Indian airports also offer flights to some of the major Australian cities.
Air India is the leading direct flight provider between the two countries. You can check all the flights running between India and Australia here.
The following are some international airports popular among Indian immigrants.
Adelaide International Airport
Brisbane International Airport
Cairns Airport
Darwin Airport
Gold Coast (Coolangatta) Airport
Accommodation & meal
Being a welcoming nation, Australia offers a homely environment for foreign students. There won’t be any dearth of accommodation options if you come to study in Australia.
Homestays
Depending on the type of meals and utilities, you will have to pay between AUD 250 and AUD 350 per week.
Residential Colleges
You can expect to get snacks, library facilities, WiFi, and other utilities between AUD 200 and AUD 750, weekly.
Managed student apartments
Single or sharing rooms are available between AUD 200 and AUD 500 per week.
Hostels
It will cost you around AUD 90 to AUD 150 per week.
Halls of Residence
The rates of Halls of Residence start from AUD 320 and lead up to AUD 1,000/month.
Sightseeing
Australia is the 6th largest landfill area in the world with 4 different time zones. It thus offers a variety of landscapes, sightseeing opportunities, beaches, parks and forests. You can explore its captivating beauty while you are in the country for work or study and one of the best ways to do it is by booking a sightseeing tour.
Some of the most popular places to visit are:
1. Opera House
2. The Great Barrier Reef
3. Harbour Bridge
4. Blue Mountains National Park
5. Great Ocean Road
Weather
Living in Australia won’t be difficult for you as its climate is quite pleasant, and mild. You’ll experience different weather in different cities on the same day, here. The only thing you might find weird is that seasons in Australia are opposite to what you are used to. So you should plan your travel and stay accordingly.
Currency
The country uses the Australian Dollar as its currency. It is better to buy Australian Dollar from India itself for their initial expenses as exchanging the currency at airports can cost you a lot. You can check the current conversion rate here.
Religion
Although people from around the world choose Australia for study and work, one of the most common religions followed in Australia is Christianity. The people of Australia are friendly and you will find acceptance there. You are free to follow your religious beliefs and there are absolutely no restrictions.
Nightlife
It is rightly said that ‘All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.’
Australia also offers you varied forms of entertainment, including clubs, pubs, restaurants, malls and bars to spend your leisure time. Major student cities like Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth are known for their incredibly diverse nightlife to add some fun to students’ lives. You can go ahead and have the time of your life while being safe and secure, thanks to the amazing law and order system.
Why live and work here
Standard of Living
The top quality lifestyle in Australia makes it one of the best study abroad destinations in the world. No doubt, it has consistently been ranked among the top nations on the UN’s Human Development Index
In 2019, Melbourne was ranked third-best city for international students, followed by Sydney at the ninth position. Other Australian cities in the top 50 included Brisbane, Canberra, Adelaide, and Perth.
No matter which city you choose, you can be assured of a great lifestyle in Australia
Healthcare
Healthcare in Australia is one of the most comprehensive in the world. The country covers its citizens under a national health insurance program – Medicare. Under this plan, every Australian can receive medical care at public hospitals with little or no out-of-pocket expenses.
For foreign students, the rules and policies are slightly different. They need to purchase Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and keep their policy up to date while they are in Australia and holding a student visa. OSHC assists international students to meet the costs of medical and hospital care they may need while in Australia.
Economic Background of the Country
Australia is one of the wealthiest countries in the Asia-Pacific region.
It ranks 4th on Economic Freedom and, therefore, attracts significant foreign investments. Several MNCs have established themselves in Australia, thus you will have immense jobs to apply for after completing your studies and enjoy an excellent lifestyle in Australia.
Various sectors in Australia have played a major role in ensuring that the economy of this great nation remains constant and at the top. These sectors are Service Industry, Tourism, Healthcare, Media and Entertainment, Finance , Mining, Manufacturing Industry, Information Technology, Agriculture and Trade.
You can get more details about the major industries in Australia here.
Stay back after studies/work permit
There is no doubt that the lifestyle in Australia is addictive. As international students, it can be difficult for you to stay in a country after completing your study.
Australia has this sorted for you. It has post-study work visas that allow students to study, work, and live in the designated areas.
Student part-time jobs and wage rates
Australia offers international students the opportunity to work part-time during their studies in order to learn and experience the work culture and methodologies of the country. This further helps develop interpersonal skills and prepares them for future jobs. International students in Australia are eligible to work part-time for up to 40 hours/fortnight while the course is in session.
Some popular part-time jobs that you can take up in Australia are:
1. Retail sales jobs
2. Restaurant support staff
3. Sales and telemarketing
4. Mail Carrier
5. Farming related activities
The government defines the minimum full-time wages for adults in Australia as between $18.29/hour and $18.93/hour. For international students, these wages are scaled according to their ages.
How to find a part-time job
Having a resume makes it easy for international students to get a part-time job in Australia. Here’s how you can start your job search.
Enquire in your college’s careers service to help you get a job. Most of the institutions have one.
Visit local shopping centers and markets to find a suitable part-time job.
Make an account on Australian job search websites to find work.
Job culture ethics
Corporate culture in Australia may be quite different from what you are familiar with. Australian workplaces are quite informal. This applies to the relationships between colleagues and management, language used in meetings and social conversations and even the dress code at times (although this varies from company to company so ask before you start to be sure).
Australians also do a lot of work during their working hours and do not shy away from extra responsibility.
Learn more about the work culture in Australia here.
Popular student cities
Australian universities feature in the top 100 universities across the globe. While choosing a good university/college is a crucial decision, it is also important that you live in a city you love.
Some of the best student cities in Australia based on their quality of education, student diversity, employability and overall environment are listed below:
Canberra
Canberra has a relatively large student population. The Australian National University is top-ranked in the QS world university rankings and provides excellent study and job opportunities to international students.
Melbourne
One of the most livable cities in Australia, Melbourne, is also the country's educational and cultural center. There are at least seven world-class universities in Melbourne that offer extraordinary education and employment opportunities to their students.
Sydney
The financial hub of Australia, Sydney, has a strong international student presence, making it one of the best student cities in Australia. If you are looking for a city with a lot of Indian population, Sydney is the one for you. Nightlife, beaches, and fantastic scenery are other significant reasons why students prefer Sydney to study in Australia.
Brisbane
The city has some of the top universities in Australia including, the University of Queensland and Griffith University. Fantastic climate and great culture make it a perfect choice for international students.
Adelaide
The presence of four world-renowned universities has given Adelaide its unique student culture. Known for its churches, Adelaide is an architectural gem and attracts students interested in history and culture to study in Australia.
Perth
One of Australia's fastest-growing cities, universities in Perth, offers a wide range of choices to international students. Perth dominates the Western Australian economy, despite the major mining, petroleum and agricultural export industries located elsewhere in the state.
Gold Coast
While there are fewer universities here, the city's fantastic weather and low cost of living give it an advantage over the best student cities in Australia.
Peaceful and calm, Gold Coast is gradually becoming more popular among Indian students.
Wollongong
The University lifestyle in Wollongong is such that it attracts the highest proportion of international students. The natural environment and abundance of beaches are further win-win if you choose to study at any Wollongong university.
Newcastle
If you are looking for a relaxed and dynamic lifestyle near the beach, Newcastle could be your choice to study in Australia. Being a growing student city, it offers cheap and affordable options for students.
Hobart
The capital of Tasmania, Hobart, is considered one of the cheapest cities to study in Australia. Moreover, the University of Tasmania offers a wide range of courses for students and attractive scholarships to those involved in the research.
While these are some of the best student cities in Australia, your decision to move to the country will depend on several other factors like affordability, courses offered and connectivity..
Aussie People and Culture
History of Australia
The original inhabitants of the Australian continent arrived here at least 60,000 years ago. Later, starting in 1788, the British established their penal colonies in the country. The present culture of Australia is a gift of free settlers who began inhabiting the country, later.
Over the past 50 years, Australia has developed a highly diversified economy, particularly in the mining and agricultural sectors and manufacturing and services. This is the reason why people from around the world choose to work here and embrace the culture of Australia.
Demographic information
With an estimated population of 25,636,100, Australia is the 52nd most populous country in the world. The average life expectancy of a person living in Australia is 83.94 years.
Language
Australia has diverse cultures. The country doesn’t have any official language, but English has become its national dialect over all these years. So, if you are able to communicate in English, you will easily mix in the culture of Australia.
Other common languages spoken in Australia include Mandarin, Arabic, Italian, Greek, Cantonese, Hindi and Vietnamese.
National Events
From sporting events to art exhibitions, Australia hosts a large number of cultural events every year. Here’s a list of some popular events in order of the months that showcase the rich culture of Australia.
1. January – Australian Tennis Open, Australia Day
2. February/March – Adelaide Fringe Festival, Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras
3. March – Australian Grand Prix
4. March/April – Melbourne Comedy Festival
5. April – Rip Curl pro Surfing, Anzac Day
6. May – Australian Fashion Week
7. July – Lions International Camel Cup, Darwin Beer Can Regatta
8. August – Henley-On-Todd Regatta
9. November – Melbourne Cup
10. December – Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, NYE Fireworks
Being a nation that loves cricket, Australia organises several cricket events for fans. From T20 to ODIs, there’s a lot you can enjoy in Australia. Keep checking the official website for more details about the matches and tournaments.
Everyone can be a part of these events despite their nationality.
Main Festivals
One of the best ways for international students to immerse themselves in Australia’s exciting culture is to be a part of the country’s festivities while they study in Australia. Some of the famous Australian festivals that will give you a lifetime experience are:
Byron Bay Bluesfest
Melbourne International Art Festival
Parrtjima
Woodford Folk Festival
Vivid Sydney Winter Festival
Moomba Festival
Castlemaine State Festival
Ultra Australia
Indian festivals in Australia
The number of Indian students who choose to study in Australia has been rising every year. It has been ranked at the third-most preferred study abroad destination by Indian students.
Being a diverse country, you won’t miss Indian festivals in Australia. The Indian community here celebrates Diwali on a grand scale. Several companies also give their Indian employees a holiday on Diwali – one of the biggest Hindu festivals. Other Indian festivals celebrated in Australia include Lohri, Pongal, Holi, Baisakhi, Onam, Durga Puja, etc. In short, it’s a home away from home.
Health and Safety in Australia
- Australia's health system for international students
- Insurance & providers
- Student helping NGOs in Australia
Australia's health system for international students
Laws in Australia require international students to have health insurance for the duration of their studies. Unfortunately, most international students aren’t eligible for the national insurance program – Medicare. But even then, you can avail of several affordable insurance options for proper health & safety in Australia.
Insurance & providers
Those staying In Australia under student visas are required to purchase the Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Only students from the United Kingdom, Sweden, the Netherlands, Belgium, Slovenia, Italy, and New Zealand are covered under Medicare.
One of the best ways to arrange for your medical insurance while you study in Australia is via your university. You can also approach other insurance companies like Australian Health Management, Bupa Australia, Medibank Private, Allianz Global Assistance, etc. Some Australian universities also have agreements with these insurance providers to provide health & safety in Australia.
We aim to offer you all details about insurance policies in Australia before you decide to move there.
Student helping NGOs in Australia
As international students, you could face problems settling in a foreign country. There are several charities and NGOs in the country that offer support services to students coming from abroad and ensure their good health and safety in Australia.
Some of the most popular ones are:
1. Headspace
It provides early intervention and mental health services to 12-25-year-olds throughout Australia. Those who come to study and work here can avail services for general mental health.
You can get in touch with them on their toll free number – 1800 650 890
2. Study Australia
International students receive welfare support and funding from this organization. They can easily apply and avail valuable support for their academics.
You can contact these NGOs in emergencies for support. We also provide you with a list of other organizations that can be of help to you when you are in Australia. Our overall aim is to make your stay pleasant one.
Student Support Centers
It can be challenging to take up a course in a new country with an entirely different language, culture, and academic environment. However, you need not worry as Australia has plenty of support services for international students
International Student Hotline in Australia: 1300 363 079
The helpline number aims to provide support to international students who choose to study in Australia.
Dedicated to students, these centers are always working towards ensuring their health & safety in Australia..
This is the national body for international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and other specialized courses in Australia.
The organization helps international students make their experience in Australia a perfect one.
Dedicated to students, these centers are always working towards ensuring their health & safety in Australia.
Emergency Helplines
Emergency consular assistance is available 24 hours a day by calling the Consular Emergency Centre (CEC) in Canberra on:
1300 555 135 (within Australia)
+61 2 6261 3305 (from overseas)
The emergency services and public transportation in Australia will give you a sense of safety. Welcoming students from around the world, it is easy for students to adjust here.
The country’s work health and safety laws make it compulsory for organizations and companies to maintain the physical and mental health of their employees.
Best Places to Visit in Australia
Bestowed with rich natural heritage, Australia is home to a lot of beautiful places.
From islands to beaches and national parks, some of the best places to visit in Australia are:
The Great Barrier Reef
Just the mention of this should make you thrilled. It is, in fact, the only living thing on earth that is visible from space. Diving and snorkeling are some activities that will give you amazing views of the coral reef.
Great Ocean Road
From rainforests and rivers to beaches, the Great Ocean Road is one of the best places to visit in Australia. Just a 90-minute drive from Melbourne, the area spanning 400 km, is the perfect destination for nature and wildlife lovers.
Sydney Harbour Bridge
This iconic landmark is the largest steel arch bridge in the world. You can walk and cycle across the bridge or even climb atop for stunning views of Sydney.
Darling Harbour
Next to the city center of Sydney, Darling Harbour is the perfect getaway for students. From enticing shops and museums to zoos and aquariums, it has everything you need for recreational purposes.
12 Apostles
The magnificent rock stacks that rise majestically from the Southern Ocean on Victoria's coastline are dream destinations for many students. Visiting the place during sunrise or sunset offers you picturesque views of the limestone cliffs.
Whitehaven Beach
Stretching over 7 km, this beach boasts of white silica sand. The experience of sinking your feet in the sand as waters come offshore is pristine.
Kangaroo Island
Known as nature's island, it is impossible not to relax your body and mind when you are here. Depending on how many days you have, you can unwind yourselves on this island while you study in Australia.
Kings Park and Botanic Garden
One of the world's largest inner-city parks, this botanical garden is on the list of best places to visit in Australia. It is also of interest to students pursuing courses in horticulture, scientific research, and nature conservation.
Tasmania's Museum of Old and New Art
One of the best museums showcasing the history and culture of Tasmania, it is loved by students.
Opera House
Also considered as the eighth wonder of the world, this is an architectural marvel in Australia. The place deserves a visit when you are in Sydney.
Eureka Tower
Climbing at the top of this tower is one of the best ways to witness Melbourne's spectacular city and give you one of the most memorable experiences in Australia.
While these are some of the best places to visit in Australia, there are lots of other beautiful sites for you to explore when you choose to study in Australia.
Immigration & Citizenship in Australia
Student visa policy subclass 500
This visa allows international students to stay in Australia for up to 5 years and enroll in the course of study. Those possessing this visa can also bring their family members to live with them. Australia Immigration Rules require that you register in the OSHC to get health insurance coverage while you complete your study in Australia.
Learn more about the student visa on the official website of the department of home affairs.
The application for the visa mentioned above can be filed online on the official website which also tells you how to get Australian citizenship in future.
Extend your visa
According to the latest updates, there is no provision of automatic visa extension in Australia. However, if your visa is expiring soon, and you wish to continue your stay, then as international students, you have two options: apply for a new student visa or apply for a visitor visa.
You must apply for a new visa; otherwise, you could face deportation.
For more details on visa extension, you can contact our visa experts.
Australia's plans to invite immigrants
The coronavirus pandemic has halted the immigration patterns and procedures of Australia as of now. For a country that has been integrating thousands of immigrants every year, this is a big deal.
As of now, there’s no update on the plans to invite immigrants. We will keep you updated about Australia Immigration Rules and how to get Australian Citizenship.
PSW - 485/491
The Post Study Work Visa 485 is a work visa lasting between 2 and 4 years. It is useful for students who need to study in Australia at the Bachelor, Masters, or Doctorate level, which take at least two academic years.
It is also an excellent option for students who would like to extend their stay in Australia after their studies. It offers full education and work rights to immigrants.
You can get complete details about post study work visas on the official websites.
PR & Citizenship
There is a difference between a permanent resident of Australia and a permanent citizen. Being a permanent resident, you can live, study, and work in Australia without restrictions, but since you are not an Australian citizen and do not enjoy the rights of a citizen like voting, etc.
If you wish to gain permanent residency, you need to fulfill several requirements mentioned on the Department of Home Affairs’ official website.
Those willing to gain Citizenship can know more about how to get Australian Citizenship on the same website.
Spouse/ family members & dependents
Australia allows international students and professionals to call their families to Australia under the Dependent Visa program. This is a temporary visa requiring the applicant to be located outside Australia when applying for the visa.
We aim to offer you expert consultation for obtaining the dependent visa for your family.
Language requirements
Those applying for the Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482) are required to demonstrate that they meet specific minimum English language proficiency standards by taking and achieving a particular result in an English language test unless exemptions apply.
You can contact us to know more about exemptions and preparations for the English proficiency test. We will tell you how to get Australian citizenship and also help you gain one.