Australia is the sixth largest country in the world. It's about the same size as the 48 mainland states of the USA and 50 per cent larger than Europe, but has the lowest population density in the world - only two people per square kilometre.

Settlement

Overcrowded prisons in England and disruption caused by the American Revolution were two key reasons for the first shipment of convicts to the great southern land. It was the explorer and botanist Joseph Banks who, in 1779, suggested that New South Wales would be a fine site for a penal colony!

Aboriginal history

For more than 50,000 thousand years, Australia's Aboriginal people have lived and thrived in Australia's unique and challenging natural environment. Australia's rich vegetation and native wildlife helped them establish their presence on the land. Today it is believed the Aboriginals are the world's oldest civilisation.

Discovery

'Terra Australis' was the last landmass to be discovered by European explorers. Talk of this mystical land and the riches it held inspired explorers to sail into the unknown. It wasn't until Captain James Cook arrived in Botany Bay in 1770 that the great southern land was officially discovered by Europeans.

States and Territories

Australia is made up of six states and two territories. Each state and territory has its own parliament, flag and floral emblem. Australia became a federated nation after the union of the six colonies on 1 January 1901. Bound by one parliament, one constitution and one flag, Australia celebrated its Centenary of Federation in 2001

Here is a check list of some of the things that you should keep in the back of your mind while preparing to travel:

Passport
Take a photocopy of the first two pages of your passport. Carry the copy in a separate place from the one in which you carry your passport. If you lose the passport, or if it is stolen, the photocopy will help the U.S. officials in Australia to speedily arrange a new passport.

Credit and charge cards
Credit cards and ATM cards are handy to have. Australian bank ATM’s typically do not charge user fees. If you have more than one credit or charge card, carry them separately. That way, if you lose one you will still have the other. Carry cancellation numbers separately also.

Packing
Pack light. Remember that you have to bring all that stuff home, and that you will possibly buy a lot more. Sea mail and freight takes up to three months to get to/from the USA. Most things that you can buy in the States are also available in Australia, though they may be a bit more expensive. Pack glasses, jewelry, emergency clothes, and hard-to-replace items in your carry on luggage!

Formal wear
You may like to check with your selected university whether there are any formal occasions which will require specially formal dress. At most universities there will be at least one Ball. Some halls of residence and university colleges also have formal dinners and balls. Rentals are always available.

Travel insurance
You may want to take out travel insurance for the time you spend traveling. Check with your travel agent or program sponsor in the States. The compulsory overseas student health cover will protect you against medical costs during the semester, but will not cover you for loss of any of your possessions. The OSHC will also not insure you against incidents such as air crashes.

Backpacking
If you intend to backpack in Australia, be sensible. Australia has a great reputation for being a safe country, and relatively speaking that is true. Australians do not carry handguns, and generally there is not much street violence, but it may happen. Don’t accept rides unless you are sure of what you are getting into. Incidentally, mace and pepper spray are illegal in Australia. Be a smart traveller.

On the flight
It’s a good idea to sleep on the flight if you can. Seasoned travelers will often tell you that the aisle seat is the best, but go with your personal preference. Drink a lot of water, and not so much coffee or alcohol. The environment of the plane is very dry, and you need to compensate for this. It will probably take a couple of days to get over your jet lag!

Cabin luggage
Be careful about the size of your cabin bag. Australian airlines have strict requirements concerning size, and if the bag is too big they may insist on putting it in the hold. U.S. airlines are more liberal than Australian airlines in such matters.

Phone card
Phone cards can also be purchased before leaving the U.S.
AT&T: www.consumer.att.com/prepaidcard
MCI: www.mci.com/calling_cards
Sprint: www.prepaid.sprint.com

Cellular Phone
There are some US cellular phone plans which work in Australia. You may want to check with your carrier to find out if your plan is one of these

Australian students normally attend thirteen years of school before they enter university. There are seven years of “primary” education (like “elementary” education in the U.S.), followed by six years of “secondary” education. At the end of the twelfth year students can sit for examinations leading to the award of a certificate. The certificate goes by different names in different States. In Victoria it is called the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE). In some other states it is called the Higher School Certificate (HSC). Regardless of the name, students can use their certification earned in any State to apply for “tertiary” entrance in their own State or any other State.

Public and Private

In most States there are “private” schools (where tuition fees are paid to the
school) and state schools, where the student’s place is largely paid for by the State. There are usually more state schools than private schools.

Sometimes private schools are called “Independent” schools (independent of the State that is). To make things even more complicated, in some states, private schools are called “public” schools, because they are owned by “the public”. Many independent or private schools are run by the Catholic Church. Some others are run by other churches, or other religions. Some private schools are non-religious. No state school is run by a religious body or church.

Academic Culture

Perhaps the most important thing to bear in mind about Australian universities is that they place a premium on independence. You will be the controller of your study program. You will decide on your study priorities. It is almost as if you are an independent researcher right from the beginning. Consistent with this academic culture you may find that you have fewer class hours than in the U.S but you are expected to do a lot more private study, and spend a lot more time in the library. Many subjects (courses) do not have textbooks, so you will not be able to pass by knowing the contents of just one book. Remember that in an Australian university the primary function of academics is research. Therefore, the universities have a mind-set related to research and they will look to you to develop the same mind-set.

Length of degrees

The basic Australian degree in the humanities and business requires three years of study. After three years, a student may take out a “pass” degree. Qualified students will be given an offer to do an extra year. This “honours” year, on top of the pass degree, gives the student an “honours” degree. It is necessary to have an honours degree to go on to graduate studies. Any student with only a pass degree who wants to go on to graduate study will need to take the extra year. The honours year usually contains additional coursework and research, with the submission of an “honours thesis” required.

In Engineering and other similar courses you may find the length of the pass degree is four years, with honours being given to students who do exceptionally well. This is much more like the system of honours in the U.S.

Teaching styles

In Australia, the core material of the subject is nearly always given in lectures. In popular subjects a hundred or more students may attend the lecture. In less popular subjects the lecture may have only a small number of students present. In very small and often advanced subjects, lectures may be abandoned in favor of a seminar-style presentation. In a lecture there is little if any interaction between student and lecturer. The material is normally presented in the form of a monologue from the lecturer, perhaps supported with slides and videos.

Your opportunity for discussion occurs in the tutorial, which has a much smaller number of students, and where the tutor and the students engage in a dialogue relating to the content of the subject. Whereas you are not
expected to speak in lectures, you are expected to speak in tutorials. Remember that in tutorials your input is very important. It is a way for you to become comfortable talking about the issues behind the subject.

Science and technology based subjects, as well as psychology, also have labs. Language subjects usually require time in the language laboratory.

Class size

Lectures can be very big. Tutorials usually have around 15 students. Where a seminar program replaces lectures and tutorials you may find up to 30 students.

Testing and examinations

Though many subjects are assessed by written assignment only (essays, papers, tutorial presentations), some also require you to pass a final examination. These examinations can last up to three hours in length. Some will be “open book” exams (you can bring your books in). In some cases you will be given the questions or topics beforehand. In most cases the examination will be closed book. Remember that in Australia the final exams may account for a larger proportion of your grade than back at home.

It is important to note that the examination period can be up to three weeks after the end of the semester. Check this with your tutor early in the semester.

Meal plan

Meal plans are rare on Australian campuses. You may find various schemes for discounting meals. Ask at your Union about these.

Campus life

Campus life is generally relaxed, with a lot of activity during the day. Most Australian university students commute to their campus each day, so things tend to quiet down during the evening and night. Only a small proportion of students live on campus, but the social life of Halls of Residence can be quite busy during evenings and on weekends.

A lot of the daily non-class time of students is centered at the University Union, where there are cafeterias, shops, banks and theatres. Usually the clubs and societies will have their organizational base in the Union.

You need to know your legal status when in Australia. If you are unclear about this you should consult the international office at your host university.

1- The laws of the land
You are bound by the laws of the Commonwealth of Australia and the State in which you find yourself. If you break these laws you can have the same penalties imposed on you as apply to Australian citizens. This applies even to driving and parking laws. If you are fined by an Australian road authority, or by the police, you will not be able to avoid the fine by going home. Serious breaches of Australian law can result in you being kicked out of the country.

2- The rules of the host university
You will be considered to be bound by the rules and regulations of your
Australian university. Serious breach of these rules could result in you being expelled from the university leaving you an illegal immigrant.

3- The rules of your home university or college
Your own university or college may assume that you continue to be bound by its rules and regulations. Both U.S. institutions and Australian institutions want you to be responsible to yourself, to others and to public property.

4- Course loads
You may find that a full load in Australia involves fewer subjects than the number of courses you would take at home. The international office will normally be able to provide advice to your advisers at home.

5- Choosing subjects
Normally you will have chosen your subjects before you leave the U.S., and these will have been approved in advance by your host university. If you wait until you get to Australia to do this, or if you change your mind when you get to your host university, you can expect more complex and extended administrative procedures.

6- Results
Results will normally become available in July (for first semester subjects) and December (for second semester subjects). Transcripts will be available shortly after the results are published.

In Australia, the institutes of Technical and Further Education (TAFE) are the rough equivalent of Community Colleges found in the U.S. TAFE institutes largely provide courses of up to two years in skills development. TAFE institutes grant certificates, associate diplomas and diplomas.

Australian Union of Students
Australian students have a union which represents student interests, and negotiates on their behalf with governments and university authorities. Membership is voluntary.

AV-CC
The Australian Vice-Chancellors Committee is made up of the VICE-CHANCELLORS (Presidents) of the Australian universities. The AV-CC represents the interests of the universities in negotiations with governments.

College
In the context of an Australian university the term “college” can refer to a student residence on or near the campus (e.g. Robert Menzies College), or it may refer to an academic unit (e.g. The College of Art and Design). The term is never used to refer to the university itself. Australian university students therefore do not attend college, but attend university (or the “uni”).

Commencement
There is no equivalent to “commencement” at an Australian university. Australians are often puzzled by the idea of a ceremony called "commencement” that occurs at the end of a course.

Drop/Add
"Drop/Add” is not a term commonly used in Australian universities, but there is an equivalent time (usually around two weeks after the beginning of the semester) when you may change your subjects without penalty. You should make sure that you know the critical dates for this at your university.

Faculty
One of the major academic divisions of many universities. Some Faculties are: The Faculty of Arts, The Faculty of Engineering, The Faculty of Science, etc. Faculties are usually headed by a Dean.

Halls of Residence
Halls of Residence are like Dorms. Sometimes these are referred to as COLLEGES. In an Australian Hall of Residence you will find various added services like TUTORIALS, and an active formal and informal social life.

Mark
Usually a number or a letter telling you how well you have done on an assignment. The mark may be a percentage, or it may relate to another number like 10 or 20. Equivalent to U.S. term “Grade”.

"O” Week
Orientation Week (or “O” Week) occurs at all universities just prior to the commencement of studies in the first semester (normally the last week of February). Normally there is no orientation week for students commencing in the second semester (July), but universities offer some sort of program for commencing foreign students at that time.

School
At an Australian university the term “school” refers to an academic unit (e.g. the School of Humanities). The term is never used to refer to the university itself. Australian students attending universities never refer to themselves as attending school, nor do they refer to the university as “my school”.

Sports Union
The Sports Union is usually a building housing sports facilities. It can also refer to the body of people who run the facilities.

STA
STA is a major student travel agency. Branches can be found on many Australian campuses.

Subject
In Australian universities the term “course” is used for the whole program which leads to a degree or other qualification. Courses are made up of subjects. So, technically, when you are studying in Australia for one or two semesters only, you will be taking subjects, not courses.

Supplementary Exams
Supplementary examinations are commonly referred to as “Supps”. You may be granted a supp if you have narrowly failed an examination or if there is some extenuating circumstance which might explain poor performance.

Tutorial (Tute)
Tutorials (more commonly referred to as “Tutes”) are regular meetings of a small number of students (approximately 15) with a tutor. The tutor will normally set topics for the tutorials, and will normally ask students to prepare for the tutorial by reading and presenting papers.

Union
The Union is both a building and a group of students. The Union is normally run by the Student Union.

Vice-Chancellor
The most senior person at an Australian university is known as the Vice- Chancellor. The Vice-Chancellor may also use the title “President”, particularly when he/she is overseas and in places where the title “Vice-Chancellor” is not well understood.

Libraries

here will probably be more than one library on your host campus. There will be a main library, as well as smaller faculty and departmental libraries.

Computers

Some students will bring their laptops with them. If you intend to do this make sure that they are compatible with Australian 220-240 volt current. All Australian campuses will supply ready access to computing facilities, and you should have no trouble. Halls of Residence normally provide computing facilities for their resident students.

E-mail

Most Australian universities will provide free access to e-mail. Normally you will be given an address soon after enrollment (registration).

Bills

Most International Offices will help you sort out issues with campus related bills. Be aware that results can be withheld if fines or fees aren’t paid.

On-Campus

Most universities have Halls of Residence. Sometimes these are called Colleges. They are never referred to as “Dorms”. Halls of Residence vary a lot in the services they offer students and in the sort of atmosphere they promote. Most rooms in Halls of residence are single rooms.

Off-Campus

Some students like to share a house or flat (apartment) with other students. The Housing Office at your university should be able to help you find something. Look also in the student press and on special notice boards in the Student Union.

Excursions & Field Trips

Your host university may organize special excursions for you. These may be bus trips, or camping trips, or something else. Some excursions will be free of charge, while for others there may be a charge. Make sure you know which is which. Some subjects will include field trips. They may be mandatory or voluntary. There is sometimes an extra charge for certain field trips. It will probably not be much, but it may come as a surprise if you are not expecting it. Particularly if you are under the impression that all of your costs have already been covered by your program.

Travel at semester’s end

Of course, at the end of the semester you will want to travel and you may find that the examination period in Australia is longer than that to which you are accustomed to at home. Exams can be scheduled over a three or four week period. The examination timetable is often not published until quite late in the semester. Remember though, that course directors are not required to change their assessment. The best approach is one of quiet reasonableness. Put your problem before the lecturer, and ask if he/she is able to help in rescheduling.

Fees

Australian Universities charge full-cost fees for international students. Australian students make a contribution to the cost of their education in publicly-supported universities by incurring a tax liability. Thus, the Australian taxpayer subsidy to Australian students does not extend to international students. Fees for international students vary depending on the level and course of study, with tuition ranging from $A4,000 to $A10,000 for one semester of study.

AEI Scholarships Database

Australian Education International maintains on online, searchable database of scholarships. Click here to search the database.

Association Grants

One source of financial aid for students is through a private foundation. Each foundation normally has established criteria, and usually it is possible for students to qualify for, and receive, more than one grant. Some of these are listed below.

Fulbright and Other Grants for Graduate Study Abroad

describes IIE-administered fellowships available to U.S. graduate students wishing to study and/or conduct research abroad. Contact the Institute of International Education.

National Security Education Program

Graduate International Fellowships (800) 498-9360

Arts International Lila Wallace - Readers Digest International Artists

provides funding to visual artists for international residencies. Open to all levels. Phone: (212) 984-5370

Washington University James Harrison Steedman Memorial Fellowships in Architecture

Provides assistance to architecture graduates, regardless of age, to travel and study architecture in foreign countries. Phone: (314) 935-6293

Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foundation Charlotte W. Newcombe Doctoral Dissertation Fellowships

are designed to encourage original and significant study of ethical or religious values in all fields. Open to graduate students only. Phone: (609) 452-7007

Population Council Fellowships in the Social Sciences

support advanced training studies or study plans in population in order to contribute to meeting the needs of the population field by persons possessing high-level scientific and technical skills.
Open to graduate students only. Phone: (212) 644-1300

U.S. Department of Education, Jacob K. Javits Fellowships

provides financial assistance to students of superior ability in the fields of the arts, humanities, and social sciences. Open to graduate students only. Phone: (800) 433-3243

The Explorers Club Exploration Fund

supports students in exploration and field research. Open to graduate students only. Phone: (212) 628-8383

American Institute for Foreign Study

Merit and Minority Awards (800) 727-2437 http://www.aifs.org

Fulbright - US Student Loan Program

Graduate study and Research Abroad
US Student Program Division, Institute of International Education, 809 United Nations Plaza,
New York, NY 10017-3580

Rotary Foundation

Ambassadorial Scholarships http://www.rotary.org

Financial Aid Publications (All Levels of Study)

This is not a definitive list, and other resources may be available. You may find some of these listings off of web site listed at the end of the page. Check their descriptions before purchasing, as some guides may not contain financial aid listings applicable to you. Many of these publications are available through local libraries, Career Services or your Study Abroad Office.

Annual Register of Grant Support

National Register Publishing Co.

Directory of International Grants and Fellowships in the Health Sciences

Fogarty International Center

Dollars For College: The Quick Guide to Financial Aid for Medicine, Dentistry & Related Fields

Olson, Elizabeth; Cheryl S Hecht

Educational Awards Handbook

Rotary Foundation, Rotary International 708-866-3000

Fellowships, Scholarships and Related Opportunities in International Education

James Gehlhar, Center for International Education

Fellowships in International Affairs: A guide to Opportunities in the US and Abroad

Lynne Rienner Publishers, 303-444-6684

Financial Aid for Research and Creative Activities Abroad

Schlachter and Weber, Reference Service Press

Financial Aid for Study and Training Abroad

Schlachter and Weber, Reference Service Press

Financial Aid for Veterans, Military Personnel and Their Families

Schlachter and Weber, Reference Service Press

Financial Resources for International Study

Institute of International Education

Foundation Grants to Individuals

The Foundation Center

Foundation Center Publications Catalog

Foundation Center, 800-424-9836

Free Directory of Private Sector Scholarships

(contains addresses for private sector scholarships that apply to all majors), Luz Scholarships

Free Money for College

Laurie Blum

Free Money for Foreign Study

Laurie Blum, Facts on File

The Grants Register

St. Martin's Press

The Harvard College Guide to Grants

Muto and Bohlmann, Office of Career Services, Harvard University 617-495-2595

The International Scholarship Book: The Complete Guide to Financial Aid for Study Abroad

The International Scholarship Book: The Complete Guide to Financial Aid For Study Anywhere..

Daniel J. Cassidy, Prentice Hall

Money for International Exchange in the Arts

Gullong and Tomassi, IIE Distributes 212-984-5330

Resources for International Arts Exchange

National Endowment for the Arts, 800-727-6232

Scholarships and Fellowships (Publication 520)

I.R.S. Tax Forms Distribution, P.O. Box 25866, Richmond, VA 23260

A Student's Guide to Scholarships, Grants... In International Education

Michigan State University, 517-355-2350

Study Abroad, Volume, 28

UNIPUB

Work, Study, Travel Abroad: The Whole World Handbook

CIEE, New York (888) COUNCIL

The Young American's scholarship guide to travel and learning abroad

Joesph Lurie, Intravco Press

Financial Aid Publications (Graduate Study Only)

This is not a definitive list, and other resources may be available. You may find some of these listings off of web site listed at the end of the page. Check their descriptions before purchasing, as some guides may not contain financial aid listings applicable to you. Many of these publications are available through local libraries, Career Services or your Study Abroad Office.

Awards for Postgraduate Study in Australia

Graduate Careers Council of Australia

Dan Cassidy's Worldwide Graduate Scholarship Directory

Daniel Cassidy, Prentice Hall

Free Money for Graduate School - A guide to More an 1,000 Grants and Scholarships for Graduate Study

Laurie Blum

Fulbright and Other Grants for Graduate Study Abroad

IIE Publishers, 212-984-5330

The Graduate Student's Complete Scholarship Book

Student Services

Peterson's Grants for Graduate and Postdoctoral Study

Petersons

10 Minute Guide to Paying for Grad School

Lichtenstein, Ellen

If you are doing a semester or more in Australia.....

!! You must have a student visa !!

You cannot travel to Australia as a tourist and expect to study, as that is considered to be a violation of a “tourist” visa. Nor does being a student in the US mean you automatically receive a “student visa” to Australia. Although the processing time for student visas is not as time intensive as it is rumored to be, you should check with your home institution or program sponsor as soon as you are accepted.

In order to be eligible for a student visa you must be fully enrolled in an Australian institution and receive a “Confirmation of Enrollment (COE)” or “Acceptance Advice (AAF)” form. These forms are issued by the Australian institution you will be attending. Do not confuse this form with the first “...Congratulations... we have reserved a place for you at ...” letter. The COE or AAF contains information such as your course start date, end date, and other codes used by the Department of Immigration to issue the student visa. The COE or AAF forms are usually issued after the Australian institution has received your tuition fees.

If you are in the US, please use the Department of Immigration, Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs website for more information. (www.austemb.org/DIMA/). If you are in Canada, please contact the High Commission in Ottawa for information at www.ahc-ottawa.org.

Citizens of some countries, based on DIMIA Assessment Levels, participating in undergraduate study abroad programs are now eligible to apply on-line for their student visa (therefore not needing to follow the paper application process). Details (as well as a listing of eligible countries) can be found by using the websites listed above.

Visas are granted for as long as indicated on the COE's or AAF's. Should you require more time, or extend your study to subsequent semesters, you need to contact the International Students Office at the Australian institution.

For your friends and relatives

For U.S. citizens wanting to travel and stay up to three months, Australia joined the U.S. Visa Waiver Pilot Program in July 1996. An Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is required. The ETA can usually be issued by a travel agent or by telephone with the airline carrier. A visitor visa can be obtained on-line also. More information about visitor visas can be found at the DIMIA websites listed above.

If you are an international student studying in Australia and have a student visa, you must have OSHC. OSHC helps pay for medical and hospital care you may need while in Australia. OSHC will also help pay for most prescription drugs and emergency ambulance transport. There are now four insurance companies that may issue OSHC policies.

How do I arrange for OSHC? And how much does it cost?

The university you are attending will instruct you regarding their OSHC procedures. In most cases, you pay your OSHC premium for the first period of your study in Australia, along with your course fees, to your host university or to that university’s agent. In some cases, the university will then send your premium to their chosen insurance provider on your behalf, and your membership will be set up. Or, you may be required to send your premium directly to the insurance provider. Your university will supply this information. Rates for 2002 were roughly A$155 for one semester and A$290 for a year of coverage.

What does OSHC cover ?

OHSC generally covers the following, but the list is not meant to be used
in place of information provided by the Australian institution’s international office. They should provide you with a Medibank Private brochure outlining the exact coverages.

What is not covered?

Again the above lists are to be used as general guidelines only. The international offices at the Australian institutions will help you enroll for OSHC, answer your questions and get you services in Australia if it becomes necessary.

As many of you are either in the process of organizing yourself for an overseas study experience, or figuring out if an overseas experience is right for you these next sections may assist you.

As with much of the site, this section is meant to be a guide only. Your home institution, study abroad provider and/or Australian university will have much more information available and probably specific to the region in Australia to which you will be traveling.

Important Documents and Customs

Make sure you have your passport and immigration form ready for passport control when you arrive at your destination in Australia. You will be handed an immigration form on the plane which must be filled out before you land otherwise you will be held up at passport control. Make sure also that you have your air ticket with evidence of the number of bags you have as part of your luggage. Sometimes bags get lost in the system but please don’t panic if this happens. Just be sure to have all this information with you. Bags are usually returned quite quickly.

Customs

On arrival at airports in Australia follow the procedure for passport control. Once outside of the customs area, those of you who are expecting to be met will easily find your name or the name of the university or company waiting for you in some part of the arrival area. You can be sure that if you have been told that you will be met at the airport that somebody will be watching for you.

Customs regulations

You need to be careful about what you bring with you. Australia is an island,and for that reason it has been able to keep out many of the diseases that affecthumans, animals and plants in other parts of the world. Below you will find an extract from the Customs Home Page on the Web.

The following items can be brought into Australia duty/tax free if they accompany you and are not for commercial purposes:

Personal goods that have been owned or used for at least 12 months are permitted duty free. This includes electronic equipment such as a computer or camera or jewelry. Proof of purchase may be required.

There is no limit of the amount of Australian or foreign currency brought into the country. Amounts of $A10,000 or more do, however, need to be reported on arrival (currency does not include travelers' checks). This includes currency mailed or shipped into Australia.

There are strict laws prohibiting or restricting the entry of drugs, steroids, weapons, firearms and certain articles subject to quarantine into Australia. You must declare any of these items to Customs on arrival.

Foodstuffs

All foodstuffs, including aircraft food, must be declared to Customs. Most will undergo a quarantine inspection. It is best if you don’t bring these items with you into Australia. There is a list of items permitted on the quarantine website.

Plants and plant products

All plants and plant products must be declared to Customs on arrival. Any plants, seeds, fruit, vegetables or wood and any articles made from plant products, including ornaments, souvenirs, packing cases or other wooden articles may have to undergo a quarantine examination. Quarantine amnesty bins are located around the arrival area and unwanted food or quarantine material may be placed in these bins.

Animal products

All animal products must be declared to Customs on arrival. These will also undergo a quarantine inspection and may require treatment before release.

Wildlife and wildlife products

Australian laws strictly regulate the import and export of protected wildlife and products made from skins, feathers, bones, coral or shells of protected species. Protected wildlife or any clothing, accessories handbags, shoes, trophies, ornaments or souvenirs made from protected species will be seized by Customs on arrival.

Prescription medicines

Travelers taking regular medication should contact an Australian consulate or embassy well before departure to confirm that the medicines and the quantities to be carried are permitted and the documentation required. It is advisable to obtain a letter from your doctor describing the medication you are taking and certifying that it has been supplied to you on prescription for a particular medical condition. Keep this letter handy when travelling.

As a general rule, visitors may bring medications requird for personal use. The maximum allowable amount is a three-month supply. Keep all medications in the container in which they were dispensed.

Health

Yellow fever vaccination is the only health requirement for travelers entering Australia and it is required in only some circumstances. (recent travel to Africa or South America within 6 days of arrival in Australia)

Australian Customs Regulations online:
www.immi.gov.au/visitors/customs.html

Any move, despite the length of time, requires adjustment. Each time it is a sort of culture change. When you move to a new country the changes are more magnified, especially when the language is different. In Australia, the language and culture appears to be the same, but as you can imagine, there are many and subtle differences. In this section we address the differences between Australia and North America.

Cultural Adjustments

There is a lot of talk about culture shock. No doubt your school will have provided discussions about how it feels.

You can expect that when you leave your usual environment, no matter where you go, you will be confronted with the newness of everything. Although Australia will seem quite familiar, there are differences. Each country has its own ways, its own cultural perspectives and its own reason for being.

For most students, studying in Australia becomes a memorable experience. You will manage to acclimate yourself to the differences and gradually the new way of life becomes part of what you expect daily.

Social customs

Drinking

Some students become quite excited when they realize that the official drinking age in Australia is 18 rather than 21 as in the US. Please be aware that although it is legal to drink at eighteen, most Australians view intoxication as unacceptable. Alcoholic beverages are usually consumed in moderation as part of the social environment. Both wine and beer are popular in Australia and you will have the opportunity to learn a lot about fine wines and excellent home made beers. Many fine wines are produced in South Australia, Western Australia and New South Wales.

Noise

Australians can be as noisy as anybody else especially in the context of parties and sporting contests. It is worth noting however, that Australians tend to speak at a much lower decibel range than people from the US.

Speaking to Australians for the first time

It is much easier to speak to an Australian once you have been introduced to him/her, but often that is not the case. The forms of address and behavior will depend on the context of the meeting. If you start talking to people in a club or a bar, the conversation will be fairly informal although men and often women will shake hands upon introduction.

Using first names

Generally speaking, Australians are not offended if they are addressed by their first name. Nevertheless it is always wise to be sure that this is acceptable to a person who is older than you or in a position of authority.

The “Ugly American”

This terms comes from the title of a book published in the early 70’s. The term “ Ugly American” has stuck, and can be applied to you if you are not careful.

You can avoid being identified as an Ugly American by:

Food

Australians draw their cuisine from all over the world, and the Australians you meet will enjoy Italian, Chinese, Vietnamese, Lebanese, Greek and other foods. What is characteristic of contemporary Australian cuisine is the way it reflects and blends the cuisines of many different countries. This is the sort of thing that gives vitality to new societies like the U.S. and Australia. It is important to remember that Australia is not quite as client-centered as the U.S. when it comes to restaurant dining. You may find that Australians are very relaxed about eating out. They are prepared to put a lot of time into the meal, and they are not too put out by slow service. Australians are also not as likely to ask for special adaptations of their meal (no anchovies, hold the mushrooms, dressing on the side). The waiters do not depend on tips for their livelihood which may affect the service a bit. On the other hand, the waiter will not be hovering around your table waiting for you to leave so that he/she can get more tips.

At the table

As a general rule when Australians sit down to eat there is little or no ceremony that starts the meal and prayers are not often offered. Depending of course in which context a meal is eaten it is usually quite a casual occasion.

Names of meals

The names of meals are also a bit different. At work the old Australian term “smoko” might be used to refer to morning and afternoon teas. The term comes from the custom of stopping work for a cigarette and a cup of tea. As most work places are now smoke-free, not much smoking happens during smoko.

Terminology

Quite often what you are accustomed to in your own region or town or city in the U.S. may be served slightly differently in Australia. Examples are: a pizza or pasta with a marinara sauce in Australia, means a seafood sauce not a tomato sauce. A Napoli sauce will be closer to what U.S. students are accustomed. A “main” is an entree in Australia while an “entree” is an appetizer.

Other Differences

Mateship and Sharing

While many Australians are in agreement that the individual comes first, there is a strong history of “mateship” that says much more about the real Australian character. There has always been a strong tradition of mateship, particularly between members of trade unions and even among some high status professionals. Members of trade unions share circumstances and are prepared to march together when necessary so that the burden is shared by all.

Many families that migrated to Australia brought a tradition of sharing with them. As the extended family grew, the family “get togethers” became larger occasions and were an opportunity to share time, food, wine and conversation.

The most obvious manifestation of the sharing ethic is in the “shout” when a few people get together, at a pub for example, and buy drinks for one another. Everybody takes a turn to “shout” the others.

There was a time in Australia’s history when it was believed that Australia would never be troubled by inadequate resources or shortages of work. After 1945, however, Australia was desperate for a work force. Australia could not get enough people to fill the need for workers on the land and in the factories. Hundreds of thousands of people were encouraged to migrate to Australia from all over Europe. The “Aussie” workers had problems interacting with the new workers and often resented them. The European workers, after surviving the Second World War, came to Australia with the ambition to start a new life benefitting their families and children. Australian workers, who for many years had no reason to think twice about jobs, were sometimes left behind.

The immigrants worked very hard. It was a great achievement to own “a block of land” and to own a own house.

In the 1960’s and 70’s, many immigrants arrived from Asia, particularly from Vietnam. The Vietnamese workers were well known for their tenacity and commitment to their jobs. Some Vietnamese workers also were to start small businesses.

Until the 1970’s, Australia developed a centralized government that provided funds to the state governments and a centralized wage fixing system. The employment climate appeared to be stable, Australia’s resource potential (wheat, wool, coal, minerals, sugar cane) were in high demand, and daily life had some certainty about it. There is no doubt that for many years Australia was the‘ lucky country’. This is not to say that people did not aspire to higher positions within the organization for which they worked. The politics of Departments of Education, Community Services, Defense, Social Services, Social Security indicated the intense jostling for powerful positions. Everyone wanted a chance to prove their own value and success.

But by the 1970’s it was becoming increasingly clear to every Australian that Australia was no longer in a position to rely solely on its own resources, nor was it in a position to separate itself from its regions or the rest of the world. Achievement became even more important and showing one’s worth was critical. By the 1980’s the Australian government was no longer in a position to offer funding support as in the past and started to encourage the growth of the private sector and big business. Large corporations took over small businesses that had no experience in withstanding the fierce competition from large multinational companies such as Safeway and McDonalds.

The concept of achievement has undergone rapid change. The corporate environment now plays an important role in the country’s economic success and competition in the world market. The home market has also placed very strong emphasis on achievement related to economic and financial success.

Class, culture and social position

It is often said that Australia is a classless society. The truth of it is that values and attitudes in Australia make class very hard to gauge. Although there are people who have been very successful financially, the Australian cultural history leads many Australians to view financial success with some skepticism. Australian cities are not subject to the crime and poverty common in crowded cities elsewhere, so it is possible to live moderately well. Families that migrated to Australia sometimes left behind great wealth and status for the safety of a place at the other end of the world, and relinquished that status forever. During the 1980’s and 1990’s we have seeing different characteristics emerging. There is, for example, evidence of increasing poverty and a greater gap between the rich and the poor.

Lifestyle goals

Traditionally, the Aboriginal people with a close relationship to the land do not have a concept of ownership. Instead, it is one of belonging. In our western democratic and technological cultures we have developed a strong sense of what is rightfully and justifiably ours. For some cultures, ownership and furthering that ownership is important and for other cultures ownership has no special meaning. This has been significant in historical misunderstandings between the indigenous people of Australia and the non indigenous. It is an important example of the ways in which different cultural understandings may set the scenario for different social status.

To many, Australia has been a land of freedom and of opportunity. For others it has been a place far from the horrors of war and poverty. Many migrants had the opportunity to set up a safe and prosperous lifestyle. But for others, the daily wage was not won quite as easily and throughout Australia’s past two hundred years workers, and the organizations founded to represent the interests of the working man and woman, have fought for fair wages and fair working conditions.

Humor

As a whole, Australians have a great capacity to laugh, especially at themselves. You will detect an underlying sense of wry humor and a willingness to laugh and to offer a comment that makes fun of something. In the Australian culture it is very important to be able to “take a joke”.

Formal interactions

It is often said that Australians are a very casual people. Actually, this varies enormously from person to person. It is true, however, that there is a view that Australians are all equal. Upon meeting a politician or even the Prime Minister, some Australians would think it reasonable to be on first name terms. It is equally true of course that there are many Australians who would never address a Minister that way. People have different attitudes where. During this era an idea developed that “Jack is as good as his master”. This attitude became part of the image of an Australian. During the First World War, Australian soldiers made a mockery of saluting officers of high rank in the British forces, which added to the story.

How it is

In contemporary society Australians are well educated and sophisticated. A casual attitude is what is most obvious. The visitor might well enjoy the friendliness and the seemingly enormous amount of effort people put into their leisure time. However, the workplace may seem different. The sophisticated environment of big business and the complex political environment of universities and colleges have a high level of formality. While on the outside university life may seem friendly and casual, in reality students are obligated to study and perform well. Much emphasis is placed on formal interaction and achieving high marks in school.

With lecturers and professors

Australian teachers appear to be much more relaxed and casual in their manner than in the U.S. But you should be careful of what you are reading into this friendly and relaxed manner. Although your teachers can be very friendly, and spend time socializing with you occasionally, it does not mean that they will be any more generous about grading your work than anybody else. In fact, teachers at Australian universities are known to grade with expectations that papers are well researched and carefully referenced. Exams often are graded according to carefully laid out criteria. Where possible, you should make sure you listen carefully to tutors and lecturers who will give you all sorts of hints and advice. Hence the problems that develop when students miss lectures and tutorials!

Making friends

Australians are usually very friendly but tend to stay with friends they know, and they feel most comfortable getting to know a new person over a period of time. Give relationship-building time. You will find that Australians value their friendships and will keep them for a long time.

Greetings

Generally Australians are easy to get to know. Use your full name when introducing yourself. They are happy for you to introduce yourself. Just say “hello”, or “pleased to meet you”. Many Australians say “G’Day”, but you must remember that this is a fairly familiar greeting, not used much in formal situations. Australians would prefer you not to overdo the use of “G’Day”.

A review of titles/forms of address

“Mate” is a word commonly used by men when they are talking to another man of equal or lower status. Women use “mate” also, but less often.

As Australians like to believe they live in a classless society, academic qualifications are not spoken of much. You may find it hard at an Australian university to distinguish the high-status academics from those lower on the rung. And their offices may not help either. A full professor may not have his/her title on the door. Academics will generally not display their degrees in frames on their office walls. When you are talking to academics for the first time you are safest to assume that they have a PhD, and you can refer to them as Dr XXXX. Only address full professors as “Professor”. Australians do not use the term “professor” as a general form of address for all academics.

Titles mean little in Australia. Your title does not command respect of itself. You have to win the respect of others, and this is done by showing what you know and can do, but doing it in a very quiet and unassuming way. Australians tend to downplay their achievements. However, do not let this fool you into believing that they are not high achievers.

Gestures

The really rude gestures you will learn quickly. Confusion can arise over the thumbs-up gesture, which in Australia can be interpreted as being rather crude. A circle made with the thumb and forefinger with the other fingers extended indicates approval or agreement or optimism, or a “good luck” wish.

Gifts

If you are visiting someone’s home, it is normal to bring a gift. A bottle of Australian wine is a popular gift when visiting. This may prove difficult for a newcomer, since there are many excellent Australian wines, and also some rather bad Australian wines. Ask for help at the liquor shop. Liquor shops can be found in most large supermarkets as well as hotels.

When you offer the wine, do so in an undemonstrative way. Do not be offended if your host accepts your wine and then does not offer it at the table. This will not be a judgment on your choice, but will rather be an indication that the host has already decided which table wines will be appropriate for this meal.If you do not want to bring wine, then chocolates or flowers are also acceptable. Beer is not often brought as a gift but as an offering to the life of a party, and is therefore more of a contribution than a gift.

Remember that when you bring beer or wine to a dinner or party it ceases to be yours. Everyone will assume that they can share in what you brought, as well as you sharing in their contribution.

Safety

Although Australia is known to be a place of relative safety, sensible precautions are worth taking. In most cities it is reasonable to suppose that you can walk alone after dark or travel by train or bus at night. BUT walk where the city is full of people and in areas that are well known as safe areas. After dark, travel in well lit train carriages with other people. Don’t hitch hike.

Generally, living in Australian cities or country towns is a great experience. Be observant and make sure the experience of living in a country other than your own is a joyful one.

Electrical voltage

Electricity in Australia is 220-240 volts. In the U.S. it is generally 110 volts. That means if you plug your 110 volt hair dryer directly into an Australian plug it will burn out. Transformers are therefore required, and these are probably best bought in the U.S. Make sure, however, that your transformer is configured for the three pin Australian plug. If you cannot get one of these in the U.S. you may be wise to wait until you get to Australia. A suitable transformer bought in Australia will cost about AU$70.

If you buy Australian appliances you will almost certainly have trouble running them when you get back to the U.S.

If you have a laptop computer you will probably find that the transformer that comes with it automatically adjusts to 100 or 240 volts. Do check this out. If it is able to cope with both currents you will still need an adapter for the Australian three-pin system.

Batteries for portable radios, tapes and CDs are the same as in the U.S..

Aboriginal languages

Before the first settlement in Australia there were many Aboriginal languages spoken. Although Aboriginal people shared similar aspects of culture and tradition, often one community could not understand the language of another community living in a different part of the country. Many of these languages have been lost, but some have been recorded and documented in dictionaries.

Accents

Australian accents do vary, but none gives much indication about the Australian state in which the speaker lives. Accents vary from sounding broad to refined with more European or English characteristics.

Up to the 1940’ and 1950’s the only acceptable accents were English accents or Australian accents. Nothing else would do. Even until the 1960’s the Australian Broadcasting Corporation would only employ news readers who spoke with a polished English accent. Speaking with a broad Australian accent was not acceptable. Today that bias no longer exists. Accents of all types, the Australia accent and the Australian vernacular is very acceptable. The Australian passion for abbreviations has now become very widespread. A stevedore (or wharfman) becomes a wharfie, a diminutive that made a starring appearance in the memorable simile, as inconspicuous as Liberace at a wharfie’s picnic. In the same vein, the garbo is the garbage collector, the cozzie and the prezzie are “the swimming costume” and “the present”, and a smoko is the equivalent of “a teabreak”.

Slang

The list of words and expressions that follows is taken from a web page (with some additions, subtractions, modifications and corrections). prepared by Susan Smith, an American living in Australia. By no means the ultimate compilation is listed here, but it will give you some idea of exactly what some terms mean.... good on ya.

A FEW TINNIES SHORT OF A SLAB, A FEW SANGERS SHORT OF A PICNIC, OR A FEW SNAGS SHORT OF A BARBIE: not all there. Can also mean slow-witted or lacking intelligence.
ACE: Great, the best. ex: “She's ace!”
AMBER FLUID: Beer.
ANKLE BITER: small child or toddler, tyke.
AUSSIE SALUTE: waving flies away from one's face.
AWAY WITH THE PIXIES: In another world, day-dreaming.

BANANA-BENDER OR BANANALANDER: Someone from Queensland.
BANGER: a sausage.
BARRACK (FOR): to cheer for in a boisterous manner (usually a sports team). Important note: do not substitute the word "root" for barrack as this is an synonym for sexual intercourse.
BEAUT/BEAUTY/BEWDY!: Expression of approval.
BEG YOURS?: could you please repeat that?
BERKO: crazy or extremely angry. ex: “he went berko!”
BINGLE: minor car crash. Americanese: fender-bender.
BITE YOUR BUM: go away! or be quiet!
BLIND: extremely intoxicated.
BLOKE: Average fellow. Americanese: guy
BLOODY: known as the great Australian adjective.
BLUDGE: to live by the means of someone else; mooch.
BLUDGER: one who bludges.
BOB'S YOUR UNCLE: everything's okay; everything's fine.
BOGAN: one who lacks fashion sense. BOOFHEAD: a foolish person.
BOOZE BUS: A booze bus is a police vehicle equipped with a breath analyzer test for suspected drunk (drink) drivers. Americanese: the b.a.t. mobile
BUCKLEY'S: no chance. commonly heard: “You've got two chances: buckley's and none”.
BUGGER: another of the great Australian adjectives. has many meanings depending on the context. ex: “bugger!” = damn! or “bugger all” = nothing. ex: “I can see bugger all without my glasses.” or “Bugger off!” = go away! BUM: bottom, rear end.
BURL: a try. ex: “I'll give it a burl.” Americanese: whirl.

C'ARN!: abbreviation of come on. Can be heard at any Aussie sporting event.
CADGE: mooch or sponge. see bludge.
CAPSICUM: a bell pepper.
CAR PARK: a parking lot.
CHARGE LIKE A WOUNDED BULL: set excessively high prices.
CHEAP DRUNK: someone with a low tolerance for alcohol
CHIPS: french fries.
CHOCK-A-BLOCK/CHOCKERS: completely full.
CHOOK: a chicken.
CHUCK: to throw or to vomit
CHUCK A WOBBLY: throw a fit.
CHUNDER: vomit
CLUEY: intelligent, smart.
COBBER: friend.
COLDIE: a beer.
COO-EE!: way of getting someone’s attention, or a greeting. Most often used in the bush.
CRAP-ON: to talk excessively
CRISPS: potato chips
CUPPA: cup of tea or coffee.

DAG: a tacky or clueless person.
DAGGY: possessing the qualities of a dag. Americanese: cheesy.
DAKS: trousers.
DEAD HORSE: a word from rhyming slang which means ketchup
DILL: a stupid person.
DINKI-DI: genuine. real.
DINKUM: genuine, real
DOB-ON (SOMEONE): to tell on someone. Americanese: tattle.
DODGY: of questionable character or origin. Americanese: sketchy or shady.
DOLE: unemployment compensation.
DOLE BLUDGER: Receiver of unemployment although work is available.
DON'T COME THE RAW PRAWN: expression meaning don't act green or pretend to be naive. Can also mean don’t try to put something over me.
DROP-KICK: loser.
DRONGO: idiot.
DUNNY: toilet (usually outside).

EARBASHER: someone who talks too much.
ESKIE: an ice chest or cooler. usually used for beer.
EVERY BASTARD AND HIS DOG: everyone.

FAIR DINKUM: genuine, real. See also: dinky-di and dinkum
FLASH AS A RAT WITH A GOLD TOOTH: flashy, gawdy.
FOOTPATH: sidewalk.
FOOTY: Australian rules football game.
FULL ON: intense.
FULL STOP: period in both the grammatical sense at the end of a sentence, and to mean that's entirely all.
FURPHY: an unconfirmed rumor.

GALAH: an idiot. a fool. (The reference is to the Australian pink-chested parrot that flies in large flocks and can destroy crops).
G'DAY: common Australian greeting, most likely to be used by men.
GO DOWN THE GURGLER: go out of business, bankrupt.
GOB: mouth.
GOOD-OH!: expression of satisfaction.
GOOD ON YOU: ( usually pronounced “goodonya”). Expression of congratulations or approval. Americanese: good for you!
GOOG: Egg.
GROG: booze.
GROUSE: great, fantastic.

HAPPY AS A BASTARD ON FATHER'S DAY: unhappy, depressed.
HOON: reckless, uncooth, used frequently with young male drivers.

I'LL BE BLOWED!: expression of surprise.
IN GOOD NICK: in good shape.
IN THE FAMILY WAY: pregnant

JACKAROO: hired hand on a large farm or sheep station.
JIGGERED: broken.
JUMPER: sweater or jacket.

KANGAROOS IN THE TOP PADDOCK: crazy, insane.
KIWI: New Zealander.

LIE DOGGO: hide out or stay hidden.
LIKE THE CLAPPERS: very fast. eg: he can run like the clappers.
LOUSY: no good. poor quality.
LUCK OUT: to luck out in Australia, unlike in America, is a bad thing. It means you're out of luck. Americanese: S.O.L.

MAD AS A TWO BOB WATCH: crazy! nuts! (“bob” was the slang term used for the shilling coin used before the currency was decimalized in 1966. Now equivalent to five cents. Hence, as reliable as a very cheap watch).
MAKE A QUID: earn a living.
MATE: common form of address. more common between males
MILK BAR: convenience store (in some states).
MOZZIE: mosquito.

NICK OFF: leave, depart.
NICKED: stolen.
NING-NONG: (or just nong) idiot.
NO FLIES ON: smart or intelligent. ex: “you can't fool her; there's no flies on that girl”.
NO WORRIES: okay or sometimes used in lieu of “your welcome”. Americanese: no problem.
NOT BACKWARD IN COMING FORWARD: pushy.

OCKER: uncultivated Australian.
ON A GOOD WICKET: to have a good job, or to be in a good position.
ON YA!: expression of encouragement.
OOROO: goodbye.

PANIC MERCHANT: one who panics easily.
PARALYTIC: excessively drunk. Often shortened to “para”.
PIKER: one who doesn't keep his/her word or breaks promises.
PLAITS: braids.
POM: english person.
POT: a glass of beer. Note: pot (to mean glass of beer) is used mostly in
Victoria. In Sydney, a glass of beer is a mini or a schooner.

QUID: used to refer to a one Pound note (before the currency was decimalized in 1966). Now refers more generally to money. Ex: “He’s got a quid”, meaning that he has a lot of money.
QUIDS: large amount of money.
QUINCE, (GET ON ONE'S): to annoy or irritate. ex: “she gets on my quince!”.

RATBAG: a dubious person,
RIPPER: terrific! great!
ROUGH END OF THE STICK: unfair deal. Americanese: short end of the stick.

SANGER: sandwich.
SELLING (or having) TICKETS ON HIMSELF/HERSELF: conceited, boastful.
SEPTIC TANK: more rhyming slang meaning Yank, as in American.
SHE’LL BE RIGHT: it will be OK
SHE’LL BE APPLES: it will be OK.
SHOCKER: something that is distasteful or disliked.
SICKIE: a day's leave from work.
SKIVVIE: a turtleneck.
SLAB: a case of beer.
SNAG: a sausage. can also be an acronym for sensitive new-age guy.
SPEW: vomit
SPEWIN': devastated, unhappy. ex: “I'm spewin”.
SPIT THE DUMMY: to lose one's temper.
SPITTING CHIPS: extremely angry.
SPUNK: sexy or good-looking person.
SQUIZ: a quick look, glance.
STICKYBEAK: one who is nosey or excessively curious.
STUBBY: a small bottle of beer.
STUFF: can refer to sexual intercourse.
STUFFED: can mean tired, worn out or in a hopeless situation.
STUFF YOU: go to Hell,
SUSS: suspicious.
SUSS OUT: to find out or investigate.

TA: thank you.
TARTAN: plaid.
TEA: dinner. (note: if someone offers you a cup of tea, they don't mean a cup of dinner, they mean actual tea.)
TINNIE: a can of beer.
TOMATO SAUCE: ketchup.
TRACKIE DAKS: sweat pants.
TWO-POT SCREAMER: one with a low tolerance for alcohol; easily intoxicated; a cheap drunk.
TWO-UP: a coin gambling game, illegal except on certain days of the year.

UP THE DUFF: pregnant.
UNI: University.

VB: Victoria Bitter, a popular beer.

WACKER: crazy or funny person.
WANKER: self-indulgent or pretentious person.
WAFFLE ON: to talk incessantly without making sense.
WHINGE: a whining complaint.
WHINGER: one who complains. Americanese: whiner.
WOULDN'T IT ROT YOUR SOCKS!: expression of disappointment.

YOBBO: uncultivated Australian.
YONKS: a long time, ages. ex: “Haven't seen you for yonks!”

ZONKED: extremely tired. Ex “I’m zonked”.

Currency

Like the currency of the United States, Australian currency comes in the form of coins and notes. The notes are unusual because they are plastic, a process developed in Australia, and are highly durable. The basic unit of currency is the Australian Dollar.

Coins: 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1, $2

All coins carry the profile of Elizabeth II, Queen of Australia. The 5c coin also shows an Echidna (Spiny Ant Eater), seen below. The 10c coin shows a male lyrebird, while the 20c coin shows a Platypus. The 50c coin normally shows the Australian Coat of Arms, but special editions are put out from time to time to celebrate significant events. The $1 coin shows five kangaroos. The $2 coin shows an Aboriginal tribal elder.

Note that there are no 1c or 2c coins, since these have been taken out of circulation. Things are priced down to single cents (for example $2.99). When you pay the price will be rounded up or down to the nearest five cents. Thus $2.99 becomes $3.00, and $2.92 becomes $2.90.

Notes: $5, $10, $20, $50, $100

Australia’s notes are made from polymer. The notes feature optically variable devices as a deterrent to counterfeiting. Beware of regarding small change as being worthless. You will need to get accustomed to the idea that it has value.

Changing money issues

• Change a small amount of money into Australian dollars before you leave the States for on arrival situations such as meals, transportation, etc.

• Do not carry a lot of cash. If you bring travelers checks take careful note of the security precautions advised by the institution issuing the checks. Always keep a record of the numbers, and a record of where and when you cashed the last check.

Banking

Australia has a modern and efficient banking system, and you should have no trouble with it.

There are many other smaller banks, which may offer special services like Saturday morning opening. Make sure you choose a bank that will allow youAutomatic Teller Machine (ATM) access wherever you are in Australia.

If you decide to open a bank account you will need to take along your passport and some other photo ID. The bank will ask you for a Tax File Number (TFN). The TFN is the closest Australians come to having a social security number, but it’s not the same thing, and no one can demand to be told your TFN except the Taxation Department. Just tell the bank that you do not want to register a TFN. The bank will charge you a higher than normal tax rate on the interest you earn.

If you do not expect to earn much interest this is probably not a real issue for you. If you expect to keep a large amount of money in the account, which will accumulate a significant amount of interest, you may want to apply to the Taxation Department for a TFN. The international office at your university can probably give you advice on how to do this. You can then notify the bank as soon as you get it. Open a savings account, unless you prefer to pay your bills by check. Make sure you ask the bank what the charges are for checks. If you operate a savings account you can still get a “bank check”, which will cost you around $5 extra.

The unemployment rate in Australia in 1998 was approximately 8%. Unemployment rates for young people are higher. This means that work is not easy to find. It is easier if you are not too fussy, and if you are prepared to travel. It is best to first approach the student employment service on your Australian campus. You can also look in the classified advertisements of newspapers. The best days for the main daily papers are Wednesday and Saturday. Local newspapers in smaller cities and towns can be a good source. The internet is starting to play a role too.

On-campus work can be available, but there is not as much of it around as you might find on a typical U.S. campus. Still, it is worth asking.

For students, the grapevine can be the most effective way to find employment. Talk to other students and people you meet. They may know of an opportunity available for someone just like you.

The university you are attending will probably have a student employment service. If you are looking for work this should be one of the first places you visit. You should also be aware that wages for work in restaurants and bars is paid at a rate of around AU$12 per hour. Because Australians do not tip regularly, this may be all you get. Some customers do tip, but you should regard this as a bonus rather than as a right. If you find regular employment, the Tax File Number (TFN) from the Australian Taxation Office is particularly important.

Government departments

The main government departments with which you may have dealings are:

DFATT
http://www.dfat.gov.au/

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade administers matters relating to the diplomatic relations between Australia and other countries, as well as seeing to Australia’s international trade interests.

DEST
http://www.dest.gov.au/

The Department of Education Science and Training. This department administers some of the laws, rules and regulations covering your stay in Australia. It is unlikely that you will have anything to do with DEST directly.

DIMIA
http://www.immi.gov.au/Student/index.htm

The Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs. This department administers the laws, rules and regulations relating to your student visa. It is unlikely that you will have anything to do with DIMIA after they issue your visa, unless you violate some of these laws, rules and regulations.

Sport

Australia is a sporting country. From early colonial times the sports common in Britain became the sports of Australia. Scottish settlers played their Caledonian games while the Irish played a special version of football and celebrated St Patrick’s Day with sports and race meetings. Sports became a link with the countries that were left behind and were also an attempt by the richer colonists to replicate English social life, including its social structure.

Australian Rules Football

Australian sport has developed characteristics of its own. The end of the Australian Rules Football season in Victoria means the Grand Final which is a cultural event to match any international sporting event. Aussie Rules Football is a national pastime, it is as much an intellectual pursuit as it is a sporting one. There is, as you would expect, interstate rivalry and each year a series of three games is played called the “State Of Origin”.

Rugby

Rugby League is also popular and is played in most states. Like Australian Rules Football, rugby is a rough sport and upholds the self image that Australian males cherish.

Cricket

The first cricket matches were played in Australia in 1803, introduced by the crew of a British ship. By the 1820s, cricket clubs were already established with the first interstate matches taking place in 1856. Cricket has retained its popularity and Australian team players are a constant source of interest and admiration.

Australians also have great interest in the following: tennis, basketball, motor racing, horse racing, surfing and rock climbing.

Radio and Television

Australian Radio and Television broadcasting is organized through a mix of government-funded and commercial stations and channels. Radio is broadcast on both the AM and FM bands. Television is a mix of free-to-air and cable delivery. The government-funded broadcasts are found on ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) stations and channels. While the ABC is funded by the government, it is by legal statute independent of the government, and is free to be critical of the government. The ABC’s television and radio broadcasts cover most of the continent. In the capital cities you will probably find two ABC radio stations. One of these is Radio National, which has an Australia-wide brief, and the other is a station with local programming. Most likely you will find an ABC FM Classical station, and JJJ (“Triple J”), which broadcasts the cutting edge of popular music and targets its programming at younger people. There will be at least one ABC Television channel available to most Australians. ABC broadcasts are commercial-free.

SBS (Special Broadcasting Service) has radio and television broadcasts covering a lot of Australia. SBS stations and channels provide programming which services Australia’s multicultural communities. SBS Radio broadcasts in many different languages. SBS Television broadcasts in English and also shows many programs from non-English speaking countries in their original languages. SBS has one of the largest sub-titling departments in the world. SBS broadcasts are partly supported by commercial sponsorship, with commercials blocked into the time between shows, so that the shows themselves run interruption-free.

There are many commercial radio stations and television channels, but nowhere near the number in the U.S. Cable television is new, and is not yet available to all Australians. There are two major cable distribution companies; Telstra and Optus.

Videotapes

Australia uses the PAL system for television broadcasting and reception. The U.S. uses the NTSC system, and other countries use SECAM. Your American video tapes will not play in Australian video players, and similarly video tapes bought in Australia will not work in an American video player. Some video players available in both countries are multi-system, but they are expensive and most homes do not have them. It is possible to have tapes transcribed from one system to another, but it can be costly and the quality will suffer.

Gambling

Public gambling is legal and controlled in all states. Most capital cities have a casino, and there are many opportunities for gambling available. The poker machines (called “pokies”) can be found in many hotels and bars. Betting on horses is very popular as well as betting on other sports. Bets must be placed through an approved betting agency or on a legally authorized betting machine. The gambling industry is constrained by many laws and regulations to keep organized crime at bay. One game of chance, “Two Up” may only be played outside a casino on ANZAC Day. This game, originally played by tossing two pennies into the air, is a traditional Australian game played frequently by Australian troops when overseas.

Gambling is popular but controversial. Governments are increasingly earning revenues from gambling taxes which make them reliant on the industry. There exists a danger that the industry will become too influential and powerful. Gambling addiction is becoming a problem. Many small shops suffer because the larger shops associated with casinos are a bigger attraction for shoppers.

Public transport

You will probably not have a car in Australia, so you should know how to get around using public transportation. The capital cities all have good public transport facilities. Trains service the suburbs of the larger cities and buses are available in most locations. Melbourne is unique with its large network of trams (trolleys) and there are trams in other cities. Adelaide and Bendigo are examples.

By air

There are good and frequent air connections between the major capital cities. Qantas is the main airline, but you may find yourself on one of several smaller airlines for domestic flights. Your Australian campus may have a travel office in The Union. STA travel is the most common. You can also call the airlines direct to make a booking.

Mystery tickets

Qantas offers mystery tickets. You can sign up for one of these and at short notice you may get a day trip to some mystery destination. It may be far away or close. The airlines use this as a way of filling empty seats. It can be fun and is quite cheap.

Standby

As on U.S. airlines you can ask for a standby ticket. The same system works in Australia; you do not find out until the last minute if you are on the flight. It is less expensive and an affordable option if you have plenty of time on your hands.

Air passes

Check on the availability of special air passes sold by Australian airlines. Tickets can be bought for a number of flights, and are relatively cheap. Note, however, that these can be bought only in the U.S., and cannot be bought in Australia. It will not be possible for your folks to buy them and send them to you, so you must do this before you leave.

By train

There are fast train connections between all of the capitals (except between Hobart and the mainland). Train tickets are more affordable than air tickets, but you need to have the time for the trip. Melbourne to Sydney is an overnight trip, whereas by air you can cover the distance in little over an hour. For the adventurous and the frugal the train can be a good option.

By bus

Many students travel between the capitals by bus. The interstate bus lines are cheaper than the train, but probably a bit less comfortable. Note also that some bus lines, like Oz Experience, offer long distance tickets with allowances for frequent breaks in travel. This allows you to travel almost the full length of the east coast, stopping off wherever you like and for as long as you want. Some students will fly one way, and take such a bus back the other way. The advantage is that you are in control of where you stay, and you can see lots more of the country and meet many more people.

By car

Australia is such a large country with many things worth seeing very far away from the main cities and highways. Travelling by car can sometimes be the best way to visit out of the way places. Remember, though, that buying a car can be expensive and requires registration and insurance. Petrol (gasoline) costs twice as much as it does in the U.S., so you need to feel confident that you can satisfy the car’s thirst. And then there is the problem of selling it when you leave. You may be in a hurry and not have enough time to find a suitable buyer.

Seat belts

The wearing of seatbelts is mandatory in Australia. This applies to the back seat too. The rule is, if a seat belt is fitted you must wear it.

Driver license

You can drive on your U.S. license as long as you are over 18. This is the driving age in Australia. You do not need an International Driver License.

Drinking and driving

All Australian states have strict blood alcohol limit laws. 0.05 is the limit, and there is a good chance that sometime in your driving time in Australia you will be pulled over for a breathalyzer test. Fines for exceeding the limit are steep and you will not be able to leave the country without paying. The Australian authorities will track you down at home. These days, when a group of friends go out for the night in a car, one person will be nominated as the driver, and will not drink. Be prepared to do this. If you all want to drink, take a taxi.

Renting a car

Renting (or “hiring” a car) may be a better option than buying. Often you can rent a car with some friends, which can be cheaper overall than bus or train tickets. You will need someone over 25 to drive the car, and you will be hit for added insurance if the drivers are under 25. Remember that Australians drive on the left side of the road. Please use extreme caution if you choose to rent a car.

Speeding

In all states the speed limit in built-up areas is normally 60 kph (approximately 35 mph). In the country you will be allowed to drive at 100 kph (approximately 60 mph). On some freeways 110 kph is allowed, and some urban roads allow 70 kph or 80 kph. These speeds are indicated on signs. Police use radar speed cameras, and the fines are steep. Radar detectors are illegal in Australia.

Left turns on the red light

This is equivalent to the American right turn on red. It is not permitted in Australia unless there is a special lane cut across the corner for the purpose.

Motorcycles

You must have a license to ride a motorcycle, and you must be over 18. Helmets are mandatory.

The standard number throughout Australia in an emergency is 000. There is at least one university in Australia that has a 24 hour, 365 day per year toll-free emergency number as well. Check to see what services your host university offers.

US Embassy in Australia
Moonah Place
Rarralumla
Canberra, ACT 2600
(61 2) 6214-5970
www.usembassy-australia.state.gov

Consulates-General in Australia
Sydney (61 2) 9373-9200
Melbourne (61 3) 9526-5900
Perth (61 8) 9202-1224

Shipping

By the end of your stay not only have you accumulated much more than you anticipated, but you may also decide that you don’t want to carry what you already have. There are a few options available. Parcels can be sent back to the U.S. via air, air and sea, or by regular mail. Regular mail means that it will go by sea and will take several weeks to be delivered. Sea/Air takes about one month and by air it takes a few days. Remember though, air freight will be the most expensive, so be prepared.

“ Reverse” Culture Shock

Needless to say it is sometimes as traumatic to return to your normal life in the U.S. as it is to begin a life elsewhere. Australia gives you the chance to stretch, to find out who you are, to be an important part of a university or college program but to have time to consider the world, to travel and to meet people. You have had an experience that will have changed you into a more independent human being. Returning to a less independent environment makes the ‘reverse culture shock’ quite interesting.

The feeling of being “out of the loop” is a common occurance. It is at this point of your life that you must put together the experience of being in Australia with what your life is and will become. It is always a challenge but perhaps one of the most exciting challenges available.

You may need to talk to your Study Abroad Officer at your home university upon your return, or sit down with friends and family and discuss these feelings. This is a common occurance with students returning home. You should not feel as if you are the only one going through the confusion.

Transfer of grades

As you will become aware, the grading system in Australia can be quite different from the system at your home institution. The process of grade transfer is usually something that must start before you leave for Australia.

The process of class selection should be done in advance to insure that the courses you take in Australia will be eligible for credit back in the States. Usually it is a collaborative effort between the International Office and Registrar’s office in Australia and the Study Abroad office and Registrar’s office at your home institution.

If you are travelling through a US organization sponsored program or direct exchange program, they will normally organize the grade transfer as part of the program.