Australia is the third most popular country among international students to study abroad. Woot woot! If you are an international student in Australia (or you have plans of studying in Australia), you should know these things. Scroll down to discover more you need to remember than just studying.
1. Getting a Part-Time Job
While studying in Australia as an international student, you have the opportunity to work part-time. This can help you cover your cost of living and enjoy a good lifestyle while you're in Australia. Note that:
- During the semester, international students can work up to 40 hours each fortnight.
- During semester breaks, you can work for unlimited hours.
There are many job search websites that you can use to find work in Australia. The key is to tailor your resume to each individual job description and to use relevant keywords. Most employers are friendly and will respond to your applications. However, don't forget to follow up on your application after you have submitted it.
When looking for a part-time job, avoid signing contracts that underpay you. Why? Because Australia's minimum wage regulation applies to both domestic and international students. The minimum pay wage for international students ranges from AUD$ 21.32 to AUD$ 27.84 per hour starting from 2022. If your employer does not pay you that salary, they are breaking the law. In that instance, you should file a complaint with the Fair Work Ombudsman.
2. Joining Clubs and Societies
As a newbie, you can avail yourself of plenty of opportunities available to get involved on campus and also to ease your mind from your studies. If you're looking to meet new people and have some fun while you're at university, clubs and societies are definitely the way to go. There's something for everyone, so you're bound to find a group that shares your interests. Also, its a best way to explore your interests, and develop new skills. Universities offer many different clubs for students, so there is sure to be one that interests you. Joining clubs or societies is a best way to demonstrate important skills like teamwork, communication, organization, and leadership skills that will make your resume stand out to future employers. Get out of your comfort zone and try something new today!
3. Exploring Student Support Services
Did you know that international students studying in Australian universities have access to a variety of student support services? These services are designed to help students transition to life and education in Australia and are offered either for free or at a discounted rate. It will be quite tough to adjust to a new country as well as a new university, but this is where the student support service will come in handy. The university provides a variety of support services. For instance, if you are having a difficult time, have anxiety, or require emotional support. You are welcome to use the counselling service offered by the university. Services may include:
- Academic support
- Financial advice
- Legal assistance
- Healthcare information
- Psychological counselling
- Course planning
- Employment resources
With so many options available, there is sure to be something that can help every student adjust to their new surroundings and succeed in their studies. Universities take pride in creating a supportive and welcoming environment for all international students, knowing that a positive experience can contribute to the success of their studies.
4. Securing Student Discounts
The perk of being a student is that you may get student discounts. In order to save hundreds of dollars on necessities and luxuries, you may also have one or more memberships on well-known websites that provide student discounts. Consider the following options:
Transportaion discounts in Australia
- You can avail of discounts on public transport if you have paid full tuition fees. This option is applicable in Queensland, the Australian Capital Territory, Western Australia, South Australia, and Tasmania.
- The Northern Territory provides free public transportation to all students who pay in full.
- Tram transport in Melbourne's inner city and central business area is free of charge. There are signs indicating the starting and finishing points of the free tram zone.
Top 10 student discounts in Australia
- Apple Student Discount
- Optus Student Discount
- JB Hi-Fi Student Discount
- THE ICONIC Student Discount
- Spotify Student Discount
- Vodafone Student Discount
- Microsoft Student Discount
- Netflix Student Discount
- Officeworks Student Discount
- Telstra Student Discount
5. Keypass ID
Although you are not required by law to carry an ID with you at all times in Australia, it can be useful to do so in many situations. Most bars, liquor stores, and some restaurants will require you to show proof of age before allowing you to purchase alcohol. Other establishments such as banks may also request to see ID as verification of your identity and age.
In case you are wondering if you should have your passport with you wherever you go, no, it's not really necessary. In fact, it is best not to, as there's a possibility you might lose this important documentation. Alternatively, a Keypass ID is a good option for international students in Australia who want to be able to prove their identity and age. If you damage or lose your passport, having a Keypass ID can come in handy.
How to apply for a Keypass ID:
- Visit the Australia Post website
- Fill out the application
- Submit required documents
- Head to the post office to submit your application
We hope that the information provided here is useful to you. Explore more information for international students in Australia
