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Stepping into a new country for higher education is both exciting and challenging. Australia offers high-quality education, friendly locals, and a diverse society. It is an ideal destination for international students. However, settling into the Australian way of life may take time and adjustment. Here you need not to worry. This guide will help you manage every aspect of life in Australia. From cultural diversity to daily necessities, our write-up will ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
What Makes Australia Unique for Indian Students
Australia is a country with an excellent educational environment and lifestyle. Its diverse and inclusive society ensures that students from India find a welcoming environment in the country with different cultural communities and support systems.
Australian universities are popular for their high-quality education, globally recognized degrees, and advanced research facilities. Further, emphasising practical learning, internships, and industrial placements provides the students with valuable real-world experience.
Essential Tips for the Australian Way of Life for Indian Students
To successfully adjust to the Australian way of life as an international student, it is important to adapt the differences of cultural differences and be open-minded. Here are some key suggestions that can help you lead a happy and successful life in Australia:
1. Adapting to the Australian Way of Life
The Australian way of life is featured with a relaxed, friendly, and inclusive attitude. The people of Australia are known for their easygoing approach and strong sense of community, which helps newcomers feel welcomed with warmth and comfort.
- Adjusting to the Australian way of life may take time, especially for students from countries like India.
- Differences in cultural norms and social structures can be the main reason for this adjustment period.
- Australians celebrate diversity, which includes meeting people from various backgrounds, religions, and cultures.
- Adapting to life here means understanding and respecting this diversity. This is crucial for building connections and friendships.
- Australians value equality, informality, and punctuality in all interactions.
- Being polite, punctual, and respectful is essential for adapting to life in Australia.
- These qualities will help you manage university life, part-time jobs, and everyday encounters.
2. Get Your Local SIM Card Right Away
The first thing that students should do after arriving in Australia is to get a local SIM card. A reliable phone connection helps you stay in touch with family, and contact new friends.
Further, it will also help in arranging transportation, and access essential apps like navigation and banking.
- Purchase a SIM card at the airport. You can easily get Telstra, Optus, Vodafone and kiosks from the Australian airports.
- Buy a SIM card as soon as you land to stay connected from the start.
- Choose a plan that fits your needs as well as your pocket. You can consider budget-friendly providers like Amaysim and Lycamobile.
- Amaysim and Lycamobile offer affordable prepaid plans to students coming to Australia for academics. Further, they also maintain a good network coverage.
- It is advisable to look for student discounts. Many telecom companies offer special deals for students.
- Ask about discounts when buying your SIM card and bring your student ID or university acceptance letter to qualify.
- Once you have your local SIM card and phone set up, you can easily move on to settling into Australian life.
3. Understanding Public Transport: An Important Part of the Australian Way of Life
Public transport is yet another important part of the Australian way of life, especially for students who are dependent on affordable and reliable ways to get around. Australia is a city with an excellent public transport system that includes buses, trains, ferries, and trams. It depends on which city or state you are living in.
Notably, each state has its own transport system with corresponding apps. For example, if you are in Victoria, the PTV app will give you real-time information on buses, trains, and trams, while the Opal Travel app is used in New South Wales. These apps will help you check timetables, routes, and fares.
- Public transport in Australia typically operates using contactless travel cards.
- Travel cards such as Myki are used in Victoria, Opal in New South Wales, and go cards in Queensland. You can purchase these cards from major train stations or convenience stores like 7-Eleven, then top them up as needed.
- One of the benefits of being a student in Australia is to facilitate discounts on travel rates. After obtaining your travel card, the student can register online and apply for concessions. To avail the facility of discount, you will need to carry your student ID at all times while travelling.
Further, public transport in Australia is reliable, clean, and safe. This makes the country an ideal option for students who need to travel between campuses or explore the city.
4. Finding Accommodation as an International Student
Finding a comfortable and affordable place to live is one of the most important parts of adjusting to the Australian way of life. Whether you opt for on-campus housing, off-campus rentals, or a homestay, where you live will shape your experience in Australia.
Many universities in Australia offer on-campus housing for international students. This type of accommodation is convenient and close to university facilities like libraries, gyms, and cafeterias. Living on campus helps you socialise with other students and integrate into university life.
If you prefer living independently, off-campus options are available:
- Renting a shared apartment is one choice.
- Websites like Flatmates.com.au and Gumtree are good for finding shared accommodation.
- Check your tenant rights before signing any lease agreements.
- Understand what is included in your rent, such as utilities and internet.
For a more real-time experience, consider homestay programs:
- You can live with an Australian family.
- This experience helps you learn about Australian culture firsthand.
- It provides a family-like environment, which can be comforting when you’re far from home.
To secure the best accommodation before the semester, be sure that your search should begin early.
5. Understanding Australian Culture and Etiquette
Australia is a multicultural society. As an international student, you will come across people from all walks of life. Australians are known for their friendly, laid-back attitude, but there are a few cultural norms that are important to live the Australian way of life smoothly.
Australians are profoundly known for their informality in social and professional settings. They believe in equality and often use first names, even with professors or employers. This informality doesn’t mean a lack of respect on the other hand it creates a comfortable and relaxed environment.
- Australians value punctuality. Arriving on time for lectures, meetings, or job interviews is respectful and professional.
- Always aim to be punctual. If you’re running late, inform the concerned person beforehand.
- Australia is a country with different cultures, religions, and backgrounds. As a student from abroad respect the beliefs and customs of the people of Australia.
Adopting these cultural norms will help you make friends, network, and integrate into the local community.
Also Read: International Student Rights in Australia: Your Essential Legal Handbook
6. Managing Your Finances: Opening a Bank Account
Managing money is another important aspect of integrating into the Australian way of life.
Opening a local bank account will make it easier to handle your money, whether it is paying rent, receiving wages from part-time work, or simply shopping.
- Australia has many well-established banks. Some of the profound names of the banks include Commonwealth Bank, Westpac, ANZ, and National Australia Bank (NAB). Most of these banks offer student accounts with less or no monthly fees. They help students by providing the basic banking services that the students need.
- Many banks allow students to open an account online before they arrive in Australia. It is advisable to visit a branch of the respective bank once you are in Australia. Do not forget to bring your passport, student visa, and proof of enrollment in a university to complete the process.
- To manage your expenses more effectively, it is suggested that you open a local bank account. Use the user-friendly applications with services balance checks, transfer of funds, and paying of bills directly from your phone.
Having an Australian bank account is essential for avoiding international transaction fees and making everyday purchases more convenient.
7. Access to Healthcare and Insurance: Keeping Healthy in the Australian Way of Life
Healthcare is an important part of the Australian way of life, and being insured ensures that you have access to medical care whenever necessary. As an international student, you are required to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of your stay. This ensures that you can access medical services when needed.
- Now the important question here is what does OSHC cover? OSHC includes coverage for visits to the doctor, hospital treatments, emergency care, and some prescription medications. However, it’s important to review your specific policy to understand what is and isn’t covered.
- There are several OSHC providers in Australia, including Bupa, Medibank, Allianz Care, and Ahm. Compare the coverage options offered by different providers and choose the one that best suits your needs.
- Make sure that your OSHC remains valid throughout your entire stay in Australia. It’s also a requirement for renewing your student visa, so ensure that your health insurance coverage is always up to date.
Having health insurance provides peace of mind, knowing that you’re covered in case of illness or accident.
8. Work and Taxes: Exploring the Australian Way of Life as a Student Worker
If you plan to work part-time or casually while studying, applying for a Tax File Number (TFN) is essential. Your TFN is used to ensure that you are taxed correctly and is required for working in Australia legally.
- You can apply for a TFN through the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) website. The application process is straightforward, and it is recommended to apply as soon as possible, as having a TFN will be required when you start working.
- Make sure you have your passport, visa, and other identification documents ready when applying for your TFN.
- As an international student, you are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, and full-time during holidays. Having a TFN also means you can claim a tax refund when you lodge your tax return at the end of the financial year.
Having a TFN ensures that you can take up part-time jobs legally and avoid overpaying taxes.
9. Join University Orientation Programs
Most Australian universities organise orientation programs for new students at the beginning of each semester. Attending these programs is not only informative but also helps you settle into university life and meet new people.
- University Orientation programs are a great way to connect with other international students and make friends early on. These connections can help you form study groups and build a support system during your time at university.
- Universities offer a different range of services to support students, from academic counselling to mental health support and career guidance. Orientation programs introduce you to these services, so you know where to seek help when needed.
- During orientation, you will also get a tour of the university campus. This will familiarise you with essential facilities like libraries, student unions, and recreational areas.
10. Exploring Australia: A Key Aspect of the Australian Way of Life
One of the best ways to engage yourself in the Australian way of life is by exploring the culture and diversity of the country. Australia is known for its stunning natural beauty, from the inspiring Great Barrier Reef and stunning beaches to its rugged outback and magnificent cities. As a student, you’ll have ample opportunities to explore during weekends and semester breaks.
- Many travel companies offer special discounts for students, making it easier and more affordable to explore Australia. Whether it is a road trip along the Great Ocean Road, hiking in national parks, or exploring major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, you will experience firsthand the diversity that defines the Australian way of life.
- Australia hosts a wide range of cultural events, festivals, and markets that celebrate its rich multicultural heritage. By attending these events, you will gain a deeper understanding of the Australian way of life, interact with locals, and enjoy food, art, and performances from around the world.
Exploring Australia not only enriches your experience but also helps you connect with the country’s unique culture, nature, and people. It is a rewarding way to complement your studies and fully welcome the Australian way of life.
Also Read: Top Courses in Australia to Make a Successful Career
FAQs
Ans. Australia offers a high standard of living with a strong economy and stunning scenery.
Ans. Australians generally have a laid-back and optimistic attitude towards life.
Ans. India and Australia share many cultural similarities, making it a relatively easy adjustment for Indians to live there.
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