Living and Studying in Melbourne
Melbourne is the capital of Victoria and is Australia’s second largest city with a population of 3.8 million people. This convenient modern city is located on Port Phillip Bay and enjoys a mild temperate climate. It is a leading education centre and is rich in cultural diversity.
An international study recently concluded that Melbourne is the one of the world’s most liveable cities. International Students quickly feel at home in multi-cultural Melbourne where people are friendly and helpful.
The city is known for its many parks and gardens which offer a peaceful retreat from city bustle.
As the culture capital of Australia Melbourne offers fine dining, museums, galleries and theatres.
We are also sport mad and in Melbourne you watch soccer, rugby, cricket, basketball and of course Australian Rules Football.
Weather
Melbourne’s weather can be widely varied. In summer temperatures range from 15–40C and in winter from 8–15C.
Transport
Melbourne has a well connected transport system. Trams, trains, buses and taxi services offer secure and comfortable travel around Melbourne.
Concession cards for government subsidised travel are not available to full fee paying International Students.
Melbourne’s International Airport is located approximately 22 kilometres from the city.
Taxis from the airport to Hoppers City cost approximately $50.00 one way.
Banking
Banks are usually open Monday to Friday from 9.30 am to 4.30 pm, with some offering different opening and closing times on certain days. Some banks are also open on Saturday from around 9.00 am to 1.00 pm.
You will find branches of the major banks at any local shopping centre.
ATM’s (Automatic Teller Machines) are available 24 hours a day. To use an ATM you will need a card which can be obtained from your bank or you may be able to use your existing credit card.
Remember your PIN or security number must not be given to anyone!
Pocket Money
Pocket money is a personal decision. We recommend that students have access to approximately $50–$100 per week for personal expenses.
Common expenses
| McDonalds Meal |
$8.00 |
| Movie ticket |
$17.00 (discount tickets are available on Tuesdays) |
| Meal at Local Restaurant |
$20.00 |
Voltage
Australia’s electricity voltage for domestic use is AC 240 volts, 50 cycle and we use a distinctive three pronged pin. Adaptors can be bought at the airport or at hardware stores.
Telephone
Calls from public telephones cost 50 cents. Many phones now use pre-paid Telstra Phone Cards which can be purchased in newsagents and many other outlets.
More Information
Study Melbourne
http://www.studymelbourne.com.au/home
Visit Melbourne
http://www.visitmelbourne.com/
Other Information
EDUCATION SERVICES FOR OVERSEAS STUDENTS (ESOS) FRAMEWORK
For more information about Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) visit the DEST website and download a description of the ESOS Framework:
http://studyinaustralia.gov.au/Sia/en/WhatToStudy/Vocation/ESOSFramework_pdf
Chinese simplified:
http://studyinaustralia.gov.au/Sia/zh/WhatToStudy/Vocation/ESOSFramework_pdf
Chinese traditional:
http://studyinaustralia.gov.au/Sia/zz/WhatToStudy/Vocation/ESOSFramework_pdf
Vietnamese:
http://studyinaustralia.gov.au/Sia/vi/WhatToStudy/Vocation/ESOSFramework_pdf
