Download a glossary of terms used in this module.
It is likely that your new study environment and the academic expectations from your university will be different to what you are used to. Where you will live, work and socialise may also be very different.
To prepare for your new study and living environment, it is important to understand a few things. This module will introduce you to:
I come from a large city in China, and I chose to study at a regional university. At first, I was very nervous because everything was different from home. Slowly, I made friends with other international students and together we explored our little city. It will take a little time, but soon you will be comfortable.
Lin, international student from China
Before we arrived, we were worried about where to live and how to get our children into a school that would help them as they did not know English very well. My wife also did not speak English. The university was so helpful. My wife found an English class at the nearby library, and my children love school and have many friends. Do not worry. Make a list of what you need to do, and do not be afraid to ask for help!
Hari, international student from Indonesia
One of the first activities you should do when you arrive in Australia is familiarise yourself with your local environment. Wherever you are studying, you will find much to interest you as you get to know your local area. To become more familiar with your new environment, we encourage you to explore, engage and be curious.
Select each question to learn about the priorities you should consider when moving into a new area.
Continue on to learn about the priorities you should consider when moving into a new area.
Look at your university's website for trusted information on the important things you need to know when choosing your accommodation. There will be links to trusted sites for places to rent, as well as information about on-campus options, if these are available.
The module called: Preparing for student life in Australia covers this in detail. In addition to finding suitable accommodation, some of the services you may want to be close to are listed in this activity.
Most Australian schools have restrictions on student enrolment. If a student is attending a public school, they must attend one that is in the area in which they live. It is therefore important that you provide details about where you will be living when you enrol your child (apply for a place).
Remember that you may need to arrange your child's schooling before you apply for their visa, so read through all information carefully. As you may have to pay for schooling, make sure you include this in your budget.
It is important to be familiar with where you will live and study. Before you arrive in Australia, make a list of places, services and facilities that are important to you. For example, you may need to know the location of:
Your university will have information on selected public transport options and how to get to campus. Information on local public transport routes such as timetables and type of public transport is available online. For more information, see the 'Useful links' pod.
You will find that the major capital cities of Australia have places of worship. Smaller regional cities may not have your preferred place of worship. However, community halls and even school auditoriums often act as alternative places to meet and pray. It is recommended that you check the local government website for information on places of worship. Your university will also have information on places of worship that are close to or on campus.
While Australia is generally a safe country, it is important to remember to always be careful and alert about your personal safety as you explore and learn about where you live, work and study.
For information on where your closest police station is located, look at the police information in the 'Useful links' pod, and select the relevant state or territory. All police services have access to translators free of charge, so you will be able to make your report in any language.
Now that you have learned where and how to find information on where you live and things you need to think about, continue on to the activity, where you will make a list of your priorities for when you move to your new area.
Consider the list of tasks that it is important for international students to do before, or shortly after, arriving in Australia. Select the 'High priority' button, and then select all the tasks that you think belong in this category. Repeat the process with the 'Something to think about for later', and 'Does not apply to me' buttons, until all the tasks have been categorised. Then consider the feedback.
Consider the list of tasks that it is important for international students to do before, or shortly after, arriving in Australia. Then consider the tasks that you think belong in the 'High priority' category. Repeat the process with the 'Something to think about for later', and 'Does not apply to me' categories, until all the tasks have been categorised. Then reflect on your choices.
What are some other tasks that are a key priority for you? Make a list, and remember to ask for advice and information from your university student advisors.
Think about how the resources in your community might be able to help you improve your language skills, expand your social network, and develop new hobbies and interests.