Adjusting to life in Australia In the first couple of months, you will most likely need to adjust to Australian life. You may need to look up things like cultures, laws, rules, exceptions etc. Australian life is fairly easy going, but may be hard at times; the cost of living may vary from your home country so you may need to manage your money properly.   Accommodation in Australia There are a wide number of accommodation opportunities available in Australia. The different types of accommodation includes: Home stay is popular with younger students who are under 18 years of age, for boarding student during school holidays, for those studying short-term and those studying English courses. Single or shared rooms are available and costs will vary. Two meals (breakfast and dinner) are usually included. Possibly extra cost for three meals. Shared accommodation and rental accommodation Student may choose to share with other students, when renting a house or apartment. Note: Generally the landlord (the owner of the property) will require the rent to be paid in advance along with the security bond equal to four weeks rent. The bond which you pay will be refunded at the end of your stay. However, if the property is found damaged, the cost will be subtracted from the bond. Boarding schools Many private secondary schools also provide accommodation, meals and laundry services for international students. You will live in a dormitory with other students which are separated by gender and during the holidays you need to make other accommodation arrangement. Campus accommodation Most universities and some vocational institutions offer a variety of accommodations in or near campuses, such as apartments, residential colleges etc. The cost varies depending on the type of accommodation. Residential colleges are slightly more expensive as they provide accommodation with meals, and may provide recreational facilities.

Banking In Australia there will be four main banks, these include: ANZ Bank Commonwelath Bank National Australia Bank (NAB) Westpac Bank Working hours for Australian banks is Monday to Friday, 9:30am – 4:30pm.   Money The Australia currency is Australian Dollar (AUD$). The coins available are 5, 10, 20, 50 50 cents and $1.00, $2.00 coins. Notes include $5, $10, $20, $50, $100.   Tax Australia tax is 10% of all goods and services that everyone pays. If student working part time job in Australia, they need to apply for a tax file number (TFN) which can be applied online.   Working Permits Student Visas granted after 26th April 2008 a working permit is included, The maximum working hours for student VISA holder is 20 hours per week.   Transportation There are many transportation services available in Australia; the most common are trains, trams, buses, and taxis. If you wish to rent a car, you may use your international driver’s license if you are staying in Australia under 3 months.   Telecommunication There are several Telecommunication companies in Australia, they offer different post paid plans and pre-paid options.   Food and Water There is a huge variety of food as Australia is a multi-cultural nation. You can drink water straight from the tap, but Australia is stricken by drought, so there are water restrictions currently in play. Be sure to check the restrictions level in your area.   Health In Australia, there is a law which states that students with a Student visa must have an Overseas Student Health Cover until they finish their course of study. Your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) will cover you for most medical expenses. Most universities have a health centre on campus, and also provide you consulting services regarding your mental and health issues.   Emergencies If you are faced with any type emergency, dial 000 on the telephone. The operator will ask you if you need fire, police or ambulance services before transferring your call.