Pre-departure information for international students starting at Murdoch University
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Pre-departure information
2018
for international students
starting at Murdoch University
Welcome to Murdoch University. Moving to another country or state is stressful enough, so we have created this guide to make the transition to university as smooth as possible. This guide will help you with your pre-departure and arrival arrangements before coming to Perth, Western Australia. It will help you know what you need to do upon arrival, provide you with information about your studies, your visa conditions, living in Perth, what support is available and much more. Best wishes, safe travels and we look forward to welcoming you to Murdoch in person!
Contents
Acceptance to Arrival 2 Getting Started at Murdoch 14
Before you leave checklist 3 Semester and Trimester Dates 14
Enrolling Online 14
Before You Go 4
Orientation 14
Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) 4
Australian Customs and Quarantine Laws 4 Support Services and Important
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) 4 Contact Details 15
What to Bring 5 Support Services 15
Budgeting and Living Costs 6
Additional Information for Special Cohorts 17
Student Welcome Service 6
Education for School Age Dependents 17
Student Rights and Responsibilities 7 Financial Aid for North American Students 17
Change of Address 7
Cultural Transition and Australian Customs 19
Important Legislation 7
Social Culture 19
Privacy in Australia 7
Academic Culture 20
Equal Opportunity and Anti-Discrimination 7
Information for Nursing Students 20
Arriving in Perth 8
When you first arrive 20
Airport Transfer Service 8
Mentors 20
Communications 8
Uniforms 20
Money Matters 9
Clinical Placements 20
Accommodation 10
Important contact details 21
On Campus Accommodation - The Village 10
Off Campus Accommodation 10 South Street Campus 22/23
Homestay 10
Further assistance 10
About Murdoch University and Perth 13
About Perth 13
About Murdoch 13
Getting to our campus and around Perth 13
01
Your guide to starting at Murdoch University 2018
Acceptance to Arrival
RECEIVE
01
CONFIRMATION
OF ENROLMENT
Apply for a Visa
Visit border.gov.au
ACCEPT YOUR OFFER
Pay tuition, Overseas Health
Cover (OSHC) and SSAF Fees.
02 03
ENROL IN
UNITS AND
CLASSES
Login here and click
“Enrol”.
04
ORGANISE
Flights, accommodation, Travel
insurance, airport pickup,
banking, and budget.
02
Your guide to starting at Murdoch University 2018
BEFORE YOU LEAVE CHECKLIST
Have a valid Australian Visa
RSVP for mandatory Living in Perth (LIP) international
student orientation
Schedule flights to arrive in time for orientation
(Two weeks before first day of semester)
Book in your complimentary airport transfer service
Get acquainted with the Australian Customs and
Quarantine information
Organise accommodation (temporary or long-term)
for on-campus housing or homestay (If required)
Purchase enough Australian currency for the first
PACK
week before you open an Australian bank account
Have a look at our list
and see what you’re missing!
Don’t forget to pack translated Prepare a folder for all your important documentation
important documents
05
PLAN
RSVP to Orientation
and get dates for arrival.
03
Your guide to starting at Murdoch University 2018
LEAVE FOR PERTH!
Before You Go
Department of Immigration and How long should I have OSHC?
Border Protection (DIBP) You must have OSHC for the duration of your student visa prior
to commencing your studies. Remember that your course
completion date and visa expiration date are different.
You will need a valid visa in order to study in Australia. To
arrange for an Australian Student Visa please visit the DIPB
What happens once I have paid OSHC?
website for more information www.border.gov.au/Trav/Visa-
1/500- When you get to Perth you can register online with OSHC
Allianz Assistance oshcallianzassistance.com.au
Alternatively, you can choose to engage the services of a
migration agent to submit your application and communicate Online registration for your OSHC cover will be explained at
with DIBP on your behalf. Orientation. After you have registered online, you can order
a membership card to be mailed to your Australian address.
If you have studied in Australia previously and have a current
Australian Customs and OSHC card, please go to The Student Centre to renew your
Quarantine Laws cover or show proof of visa length cover.
Pre-existing Conditions
Australia has strict customs and quarantine laws and it is
important that you are aware of quarantine conditions for If you have a pre-existing medical condition that will require
entering Australia. You must declare if you are carrying food on-going treatment in Australia, please be aware that standard
or any items of plant or animal origin, including meat, honey, OSHC policies in Australia may not cover pre-existing conditions
dairy products or straw packaging, or equipment used with for the first 12 months of cover. This exclusion does not apply
animals. where a Medical Practitioner certifies, and the health care
A wide range of food products are readily available in Australia provider agrees, that you may require emergency treatment or
so you will not need to bring them with you. treatment for a life-threatening condition in Australia. If your
OSHC is organised through Murdoch University on Essentials
Valuables purchased in your home country within 12 months Cover, this exclusion also does not apply to in and out of hospital
prior to arriving in Australia and costing more than AUD$900 treatment for psychiatric pre-existing conditions and cover in
(AUD$450 for children) may incur Goods and Services Tax (GST) relation to pregnancy-related services.
and therefore you must declare these items on your arrival.
After the first 12 months of OSHC, cover for pre-existing
If you bring any medication with you, please carry a letter conditions will be considered on a case-by-case basis by OSHC
from your doctor or a medical prescription as Customs may Allianz Assistance. If you have a pre-existing condition, you
ask to see these documents. Australian customs are very strict will be required to take out additional insurance to cover the
about declaring goods. If you are not sure, declare or ask a expenses involved with managing your condition. Otherwise,
quarantine officer when you arrive. you need access to personal funds to cover any expenses
incurred that are not covered by OSHC.
Heavy penalties (including jail), have been imposed on people
who fail to observe quarantine laws. For further information,
please contact Australian Customs Service on +61 8 9477
8888, 1300 363 263 (only in Australia) or visit the website
04
border.gov.au
A FEW TIPS
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) Visit your dentist at home – dentists are very
Your guide to starting at Murdoch University 2018
01 expensive in Australia.
Bring a spare pair of spectacles or contact
Why do I need OSHC? 02 lenses with you.
The Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP)
Read more about OSHC before coming to
requires you to have OSHC as a condition of your visa. Students 03 Australia border.gov.au
must get OSHC from a registered health provider, approved
by the Australian Government Department of Health. OSHC
Allianz Assistance is Murdoch University’s preferred provider
for international students.
What to Bring Electrical Goods
These are available in Australia and are reasonably priced. It may
be slightly cheaper to bring your own with you, but be aware
Clothing of excess baggage charges at the airport for any large items.
People dress quite casually in Perth and around the university Ensure that all electrical goods operate on 240 volts and fit
campus you will see a wide variety of clothing styles. your appliances with Australian-style plugs or use adapter plugs.
»» Lighter clothing in hot months: jeans, T-shirts, shorts and skirts
Appliances to consider bringing:
»» A few warm sweaters/pullovers/jumpers
»» Personal Music Player
»» Raincoat – Perth can sometimes be windy and wet
»» Mobile phone
»» A variety of footwear, semi-formal shoes (make sure it is not locked to your home phone carrier)
»» A bathing suit if you like to go swimming »» Camera
»» Semi-formal wear for outings »» Laptop
Documentation Baggage you should bring:
Bring copies of important documents with you. This will help »» A strong suitcase with wheels and trolley (make sure that you
prevent difficulties you may have while settling in to study and can carry what you bring, as you are responsible for lifting and
life in Western Australia. carrying your own luggage)
»» A strong piece of hand luggage
Documents to consider bringing:
»» Your offer letter from Murdoch and Confirmation The check-in baggage allowance at the airport is normally 20kg
of Enrolment but please check with your carrier. Excess baggage charges are
»» (eCoE) if you are on a student visa very high, so we recommend that you send all non-essential
items by airfreight as unaccompanied baggage or by surface
»» Original transcripts of previous studies post. If you intend to do so, please plan on having it arrive after
»» A printout of your electronic visa you do and check with your accommodation for a forwarding
»» A copy of your passport details (in case it is lost) address. You are allowed one piece of hand luggage that must be
small enough to fit in the overhead compartment or under your
»» A recent Police Clearance (if you have one, as some
seat. It is advisable to carry some extra clothing and important
occupations and work experiences will require one)
documents in your hand luggage, including your Confirmation
»» References (for finding work) of Enrolment letter, academic transcripts and other personal
»» A certified copy of your Birth Certificate items. You should bring some cash in Australian Dollars (AUD),
»» A recent Bank Statement approximately $300 – $500 to use when you first arrive.
»» Your driver’s license and other official identification (ID),
for example: national ID card
»» Prescriptions or a letter from your doctor for any on-going
medical needs
»» Vaccination records relevant to your course 05
(for example; Nursing)
Your guide to starting at Murdoch University 2018
»» We recommend you get English translations of your
important documents before you leave for Australia
Budgeting and Living Costs If you are bringing young children with you to Perth, you
will need to set aside additional money in your budget for
childcare costs.
It is important to establish a budget for yourself before starting
your studies at Murdoch. You need at least AUD$300-500 in More information about the costs of living in Australia can be
cash to pay for costs when you first arrive in Perth. You also need found at studyinaustralia.gov.au/global/live-in-australia/living-
easy access to around AUD$1500-2000 to pay costs to secure costs
permanent accommodation upon your arrival. These funds will
pay for your bond, rent in advance, as well as to establish your
utility connections (electricity, phone, gas connections) at your Student Welcome Service
permanent accommodation. If you have been accepted to live
in the Murdoch University Village, please check their website for Murdoch University has a unique program available to assist our
costs: www.murdochuv.com.au students with their expectations of Perth prior to arriving. The
Murdoch University Student Welcome Service (SWS) includes
Other costs you will need to consider during your time in Perth
modules relating to the Australian lifestyle (for example;
include: text books (approximately AUD$300-600 per semester),
transport, finance, accommodation, and personal safety) as well
rent, utilities, food, entertainment, public transport, mobile
as modules specific to Murdoch University. These modules are
phone and Internet Service Provider costs. If you are new to
also delivered in several languages. To view these modules visit
budgeting, you might find this website useful
murdoch-university.welcomeservices.com/
moneysmart.gov.au/managing-your-money/budgeting
Approximate Living Costs Per-week (AUD$)
Single off Campus*
Rent (in a shared house) $85 – $215
Utilities (gas, internet, etc) $35 – $195
Food/Meals $80 – $280
Public Transport $15 – $55
Clothing/Entertainment $80 – $150
Total Average Cost $315 – $895
*These costs should be used as a guide only.
Living expenses vary depending on your lifestyle.
Students interested in homestay arrangements should budget
approximately AUD$235-325 per week full board for a homestay
in Perth.
06
Your guide to starting at Murdoch University 2018
Student Rights
and Responsibilites
Change of Address Murdoch University cannot release your personal details to a third
party (such as your parents, spouse or other family member)
unless you have given your written permission to Murdoch
It is a requirement of your student visa that you must notify the University to do this. Even if your family is paying your fees,
University of your new residential and postal address within seven Murdoch University must protect all your personal information.
days of arriving in Australia. If you change your address during
your time in Perth, you must also update this with the University If you decide that you want to give permission to Murdoch
within seven days of the change. Failure to do so is a breach of University to release your personal information to a third
your student visa conditions and may have implications for your party, you will need to provide a Personal Consent and
student visa. You will be able to update your address details via Release. Murdoch University will then be permitted to release
MyInfo. certain information on your behalf to the third party you
have nominated. You can provide your Consent and Release
permission when you register for orientation – it is built into the
Important Legislation registration process. This is particularly important in the case of
an emergency.
National legislation regulates the Australian education system.
This ensures the rights of students are consistently applied and
maintains quality education. For international students, the
Equal Opportunity and
Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000 and Anti-Discrimination
the National Code 2017 form part of the ESOS framework that
govern responsibilities of education providers towards overseas Both the Western Australian State Government and the Australian
students. As an International student, it is your responsibility to Government have legislation in place to protect the rights
ensure you understand your rights and obligations in regard to of individuals. In Western Australia, The Equal Opportunity
Murdoch University’s academic progress rules and your student Act 1984 makes it unlawful to discriminate and/or harass on
visa conditions. certain grounds and in specific areas of public life. For more
information visit our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/Rights-and-
responsibilities/Equity-complaints/Arriving in Perth
Privacy in Australia
Australia has strict laws about collection, storage and release of
personal information. Murdoch University has adopted these laws
in its Privacy Policy. This binds Murdoch University, its staff, its
students and any overseas recipients of personal information.
It is important that you read, understand and agree to the
Privacy Policy found at goto.murdoch.edu.au/Privacy. Please
contact the Student Support Team on +61 8 9360 7574 or
studentsupport@murdoch.edu.au if you have any concerns
or questions.
07
Your guide to starting at Murdoch University 2018Arriving in Perth
Airport Transfer Service Communications
Murdoch University, together with The Murdoch University
Guild, offer a complementary Airport Transfer Service for newly
Mobile Phones
enrolled International Students. You can buy an Australian SIM card to use in your own phone
or you can buy a phone and SIM card together. If you bring a
To access this service, please complete the booking form and phone from overseas, you may need to have it ‘unlocked’ so
ensure you provide a minimum of 5 days’ notice you can use it with an Australian network.
murdochguildofstudents.formstack.com/forms/airport_pick_
up_service ‘Pre-paid’ or ‘pay-as-you-go’ phone services let you buy as
much credit as you need without having a long-term contract.
Flight details, contact details, place of residence on arrival and There are also long-termccontracts, normally 24 months where
details of accompanying relatives are required for a successful you pay a set amount of money each month. There are many
booking. Confirmation of your booking will be provided within phone companies to choose from (Telstra, Vodafone, Virgin and
48 hours of receipt of booking form. others). Another option is ordering a SIM card and Australian
Upon arrival, follow the “footprints” to the StudyPerth number before you leave home. You can buy a mobile phone
Welcome Desk to meet your designated driver. from a phone shop, some post offices, some supermarkets and
department stores, and online. Take your passport when you
Information on other transport form the Perth International are going to buy a phone or SIM card as you will normally need
and Domestic Airports can be found on the Perth Airport to provide identification, even when buying a pre-paid SIM or
website at perthairport.com.au/to-and-from-the-airport. phone.
Internet
Depending on where you live when you first arrive, you
may not have access to the internet. The Murdoch University
Student Village (the Village) offers internet at a cost. You will
need a bank account or credit card to access this. Murdoch
University has free WiFi on-campus for all students. The IT
Service Desk in the Library can help you set this up.
There is free Wi-Fi in some public areas, such as Perth city,
Fremantle, the airport, major shopping centres and fast food
chains (McDonalds, Hungry Jacks and others).
08
Your guide to starting at Murdoch University 2018Money Matters
Currency
Australia’s currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Australian
currency comprises notes and coins. The notes are plastic,
colourful, vary in size, and have famous Australians on both
sides. Coins vary in size and colour and have an Australian icon
on one side and the Queen of England on the other.
Notes: $100, $50, $20, $10, $5
Coins: $2, $1, 50c, 20c, 10c,5c
Banking
To open a bank account, you need at least two pieces of
identification, such as your passport and identity card or
birth certificate. Most banks will also need a small deposit to
open your account, and some banks may let you apply for an
account online from home.
Australia has four major banks. There are also smaller banks,
credit unions and other financial institutions The four major
banks are:
»» NAB nab.com.au
»» Commonwealth Bank commbank.com.au
»» ANZ movingtoaustralia.anz.com
»» Westpac westpac.com.au/personal-banking/bank-accounts/
moving-to-australia/
Banks in Perth are usually open Monday to Friday from 9am
until 4pm, and some banks open Saturday mornings. There
is a UniBank branch on campus, and other bank branches at
shopping centres near the campus.
To withdraw cash, you can visit major supermarkets or ATMs.
Both are available on or near the campus. You can use internet
and phone banking once you have opened a bank account
in Australia. We recommend you have around AUD$1500 in
a debit/credit card or cash to pay for things before your bank
account is opened.
09
You can learn more about banking in Australia at
moneysmart.gov.au/managing-your-money/banking
Your guide to starting at Murdoch University 2018Accommodation
On Campus Accommodation - Homestay
The Village
Another accommodation option is homestay, where you live with
Murdoch University Village provides accommodation in a range a family in their home. You can apply for and organise homestays
of furnished, self-contained apartments. The Village offers with a private provider. Murdoch University’s preferred homestay
single, double, ensuite and twin share accommodation to suit all provider is the Australian Homestay Network (AHN). You can find
budgets, including a choice of contemporary one, two and five more information on their website homestaynetwork.org
bedroom apartments. Adapted apartments are also available for
people with disabilities (modified bedroom and bathroom). Further assistance
If you decide to live on-campus you will be amongst other
Murdoch students from all over the world. On-campus Your student association, the Murdoch University Guild, also offers
accommodation is self-contained, so you will cook and clean assistance if you are looking for accommodation. The Guild has
for yourself while living there. a student accommodation database which lists available rental
The Village also provide temporary accommodation and is properties near campus murdoch.studystays.com.au/
probably the most convenient for students who need a place
to stay whilst looking for off campus accommodation.
For more information, visit murdochuv.com.au or
contact The Village:
Telephone +61 8 9360 2909
Email info@murdochuv.com.au
Off Campus Accommodation
Students can also choose off-campus accommodation by renting
a room in a shared house or renting a property on their own.
Looking on the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia’s (REIWA)
website is a reliable place to start.
»» Reiwa.com.au
»» Realestate.com
Living in an off-campus accommodation may come with
additional cost, depending on what the property offers. It is
highly recommended that you view the property before signing
a lease and find out if there are any additional costs that are
attached to the rent.
10
Your guide to starting at Murdoch University 2018Your guide to starting at Murdoch University 2018
11Your guide to starting at Murdoch University 2018
12
and Perth
About Murdoch UniversityAbout Perth Campus maps of both Murdoch University campuses can be
found at maps.murdoch.edu.au
Perth is the capital city of Western Australia, the largest state You can take a 360º tour of our Murdoch campus, or find a map
in Australia. Perth has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry of our Mandurah campus at maps.murdoch.edu.au
summers and cool, wet winters, and enjoys more hours of
sunshine than any other capital city in Australia.
Getting to our campus and around Perth
Perth is the most isolated capital city in the world and this
isolation combined with the Mediterranean climate has given
Most students walk, ride bikes or use public transport to move
Perth its reputation as a friendly and relaxed city with a focus
around Perth. However, it is possible to purchase a motor vehicle
on outdoor activities and leisure time.
to use while you are in Perth. If you intend to purchase a motor
Facts: vehicle, please consider the additional costs associated with
running a car. These costs include petrol (gas), licence and
»» Population of Perth - 2.2 million registration for the vehicle, ongoing maintenance, university
»» Population of Western Australia - 2.52 million parking fees, and car insurance costs to cover you in the event
»» Government: Democratic of an accident.
»» Size - 2, 645, 615km2 More information on running costs for vehicles is available from
»» Official Language - English rac.com.au/car-motoring/info/running-costs
»» Time Zone - GMT +8 hours
Bus/train
Perth climate – average temperatures The South Street campus is located 15km south of the Perth
CBD and 8km east of Fremantle. The central location of the
Dec – Feb 20-35°C 68-95°F campus makes it easily accessible from the Kwinana Freeway
Summer
Dry and hot and the Mandurah rail line. The Murdoch train station is just
Mar – May 12-25°C 53.6-77°F 1km east along South Street from the campus. Transperth
Autumn buses run straight from the Murdoch train station to our South
Warm to cool
Street Campus. The Circle Route (98 and 99) connects all of
Jun – Aug 8-18°C 46.4-64.4°F
Winter the major universities via Fremantle and runs along Discovery
Cold and rainy
Drive approximately every 20 minutes on weekdays. For more
Sep – Nov 10-22°C 50-71.6°F information on bus routes visit:
Spring
Cool
murdoch.edu.au/About-us/Getting-to-Murdoch/ and
transperth.wa.gov.au
About Murdoch University Transperth also have an official app available for Apple and
Android devices, which you can download for free.
Murdoch University acknowledges the Wadjuk people of the
Noongar nation as the Traditional Custodians of this country More information is available at
and its waters and that Murdoch University stands on Noongar transperth.wa.gov.au/Journey-Planner/Mobile-Services/
Country. We pay our respects to Noongar Elders past and present,
and acknowledge their wisdom and advice in our teaching and Driving in Australia
cultural knowledge activities. Students wishing to drive while in Australia must contact the
Australian Licensing Centre to find out more about their eligibility.
Murdoch University has two Perth campuses; the main South
The Licensing Centre closest to Murdoch University is located at
Street campus (also called the Murdoch campus) and the
the corner of Stock Road and Leach Highway, Willagee. You can
Mandurah Campus. The South Street campus is in the suburb of
phone 13 11 56 to locate the nearest licensing centre to you,
Murdoch about 15 minutes by car from Perth’s city centre and
or go online to the Department of Transport’s website for more
10 minutes by car from Fremantle (a port city). You can catch the
information transport.wa.gov.au. 13
train from Perth city, or a bus from Fremantle to reach the South
Street (Murdoch) campus. If you choose to drive to campus, you will be able to park in one
Your guide to starting at Murdoch University 2018
of nine different car parks on campus. Ticket parking is available.
The Mandurah campus is located 45 minutes (56 kilometres)
However, spots are limited so it is recommended you purchase
south of the South Street campus in Mandurah. Buses to the
a parking permit to use in the designated areas. For more
Mandurah campus are available from the Mandurah train station,
information, visit Parking Permit and Fees.
which is on the Mandurah train line. There are fewer bus services
to the Mandurah campus than to the South Street campus. The
Mandurah train line connects the Mandurah campus to the South
Street campus and Perth city.Getting Started at Murdoch
Semester and Trimester Dates Orientation
The Academic Calendar and the list of key dates and deadlines Orientation week (or “O-week”) is designed to welcome and
(links are below) include all the important dates and deadlines introduce you to Murdoch University. In addition to attending one
for the academic year. They are there to help youplan your of several course advice sessions for undergraduate, postgraduate
semester, trimester and year. Both of the links include important and international students, orientation is also a chance to make
information about enrolment deadlines, assessment (exam) friends, speak with your lecturers, sign up for clubs and activities, and
periods, public holidays, when fees are due, study and semester immerse yourself into university life. Join us for free food and music,
breaks. campus and library tours, helpful student volunteers and more!
Academic Year Calendars The social events are always a big hit at Orientation and it is a
goto.murdoch.edu.au/AcademicCalendars great way to make new friends. The orientation week timetable
will be available at the following link in the coming months
goto.murdoch.edu.au/Orientation
Enrolling Online
You can enrol in your units online before you even arrive in Perth.
The Getting Started at Murdoch website will walk you through the
steps required to complete your enrolment online
our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/My-First-Year/Get-started-at-
Murdoch/Plan/
Key Dates and Deadlines
goto.murdoch.edu.au/DatesDeadlines
Semester 1 - 2018 Semester 2 - 2018
Orientation 15 – 23 February 23-27 July
Teaching period 27 Februaary – 17 March 30 July – 24 August
Study break 26 – 30 March 27– 31 August
Teaching period 2 April – 20 April 3 – 21 September
Study break 23 – 27 April 24 – 28 September
Teaching period 30 April – 1 June 1 October – 2 November
14 Study break 4 – 8 June 5 – 9 November
Assessment period (exams) 9 – 23 June 10 – 24 November
Your guide to starting at Murdoch University 2018Support Services and
Important Contact Details
Support Services
Student Advisors
Murdoch offers free support services to help you with your
academic, physical, mental and social wellbeing during your Student Advisors are based in each School and support all
studies. University is not only about studying. It is also about undergraduate students. They are your first point of call if you
making friends, enjoying new experiences and having fun! have questions or concerns about your course and studies.
UniEdge, Student Services and your School run a number of They have a thorough understanding of administrative
events run each semester to help you make the most of your processes, academic challenges, and support services on
time at Murdoch University. campus. They have time to sit down with you to work out
issues affecting your studies and will refer you to appropriate
Student Support Team services around campus. If you feel you are not settling
into university, not enjoying your course, or need further
Student Support is here to help you with questions you explanation about all things uni – call on your Student
have about pre-departure, orientation and getting started Advisors.
at Murdoch. If you can’t attend International Orientation,
then please arrange an appointment with a member of the To locate and contact your Student Advisor visit
Student Support team so we can help you settle into your our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/My-First-Year/Student-Life/
studies at Murdoch University and make you aware of your Student-Advisors/
responsibilities as an international student. The Student
Support team can also help you manage your studies, adjust UniEdge Transition Program
to life in Perth, and answer any other questions you have as an UniEdge is a transition program designed to help new students
international student during your time at Murdoch. We stay settle into life at Murdoch University. Each week there are a
with you through your entire degree, and can provide ongoing variety of free workshops and activities to help you build your
support while you are studying with us. academic skills, meet and connect with others in your field of
You can email the Student Support team at studentsupport@ study, and adjust to life as a university student in Australia.
murdoch.edu.au or call +61 8 9360 7574. We look forward to You can view the weekly UniEdge program schedule online
welcoming you to Murdoch University and helping any way we our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/My-First-Year/UniEdge-
can during your studies. Transition-Program/
The Student Centre Language and Cultural Exchange (LACE) Program
The Student Centre is a friendly and efficient hub on the LACE is an intercultural social group open to everyone in the
South Street campus that caters for many of your needs in one Murdoch Community. This program provides opportunities
convenient location. It is located on the second level of the to meet people from many countries, develop networks and
Chancellery Building, east side of Bush Court. settle into student life. For more information visit our.murdoch.
edu.au/Student-life/Rights-and-responsibilities/Language-and-
You can contact The Student Centre for all queries regarding: Cultural-Exchange-Program/ You can also contact Murdoch’s
»» Admissions Equity and Social Inclusion Office by email
»» Advanced Standing (Accreditation) equity@murdoch.edu.au or telephone + 61 8 9360 6084
»» Enrolments
»» Examinations
15
»» Fees
»» Graduations
Your guide to starting at Murdoch University 2018
»» Student Support
»» Open Universities
»» Parking and Payments
»» General student administration enquiries
It is easy to find answers online 24 hours a day, 7 days
a week on MyAnswers,and when you ‘Ask a Question’ via
MyAnswers, a staff member from the Student Centre will
reply to you. You can also visit The Student Centre or telephone
1300 MURDOCH (1300 687 3624).Support Services and Important
Contact Details cont.
Equity and Social Inclusion Counselling
At Murdoch University we are committed to equal opportunity The Counselling Service provides free and confidential counselling
and supporting the diverse needs of students. This includes support if you are facing personal difficulties. The service offers
assisting students who have experienced significant disruption up to six sessions per year. You can talk to a counsellor about
in their education including students with disability or medical lots of issues such as relationships, loss and grief, sexuality, stress,
conditions. depression or anxiety, traumatic events, academic difficulties and
adjusting to university life and Australia. Their office is located
Students with disability/medical conditions on Bush Court. For more information visit murdoch.edu.au/
People who have a disability or medical condition have rights Counselling/
under Australian law. Murdoch can arrange support arrangements
for you before you start your studies. Information you give to Childcare
Murdoch about your disability or medical condition is treated As a student you may be juggling family, study and work
as confidential and passed on only when others need to make commitments. There is a childcare centre on the South Street
arrangements on your behalf. If you have a disability/medical campus. The centre is set in its own grounds, near Car Park 5.
condition, please contact Murdoch’s Equity and Social Inclusion It is open from 8.00am until 5.30pm, Monday to Friday. Places
Office by email equity@murdoch.edu.au or telephone are limited so please contact the centre on +61 8 9360 2610 for
+ 61 8 9360 6084 before you arrive in Perth. For more more information, or visit murdoch.edu.au/Services/Murdoch-
information visit our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/Health-and- University-Childcare-Centre/
happiness/Disability-services/
There are also private and not-for-profit childcare centres outside
of the university that you might want to consider. To look for a
Medical Service child care service near you, the mychild.gov.au website may
All students are entitled to use the on-campus medical service at be a good place to start. The website provides information on
Murdoch. International students with valid OSHC insurance will different types of child cares and the closest ones to you.
be directly billed to the insurance provider. This means you don’t
16 need to pay any money to see the doctor on-campus. For more If you are bringing young children with you to Perth, you will need
information about your insurance, please speak to your insurance to set aside additional money in your budget for childcare costs.
Your guide to starting at Murdoch University 2018
provider.
Medical and nursing services are offered on campus, Monday to
Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm. The Medical Service is located in offices
under the Tavern across from the Sport and Recreation Centre.
For more information please visit murdoch.edu.au/Medical/Additional Information
for Special Cohorts
Education for School Age Dependents »» Postgraduate international students (Masters or PhD) are
responsible for meeting the full costs of any disability or special
learning support programs for their dependants if required. It is
School-aged dependant children living in Australia must be normal for the school to determine if your child has additional
enrolled in either primary or secondary education. Placements for needs that you may need to pay for.
Murdoch University students are done in partnership with other
institutions.
Undergraduate, Graduate Diploma and Graduate
Please note that Kindergarden is not compulsory in Western Certificate Students
Australia, and therefore these placements are extremely limited.
If you are studying an undergraduate, graduate diploma or
graduate certificate course and have scthool-aged children, you
Masters or PhD International students will need a Confirmation of Placement from TAFE International to
It is important to note that it could take 6-8 weeks to organise secure your child’s dependent visa before you arrive. Please note
a placement, so you may need to consider alternative childcare that the Confirmation of Placement does not guarantee the
arrangements during that time. Once a placement has been enrolment of your children in a WA school.
arranged, the fees for schooling will be the same as for local
students. Once you arrive in Western Australia, you can apply for a
placement for your child in a primary or secondary school
To apply for a placement for your child(ren), they must be living by completing the below application form and providing the
in Perth at the time of application. Once your children arrive in following documents:
Perth, you can apply for a placement for your child in a primary or
secondary school by completing the below application form and »» A completed Overseas Fee Paying Students Application Form
providing the following documents: »» The Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) letter for you as the
primary visa holder
»» Complete the request for placement form and provide the »» A copy of your passport details page
following documents: »» A copy of your child/children’s passport details page
»» Current visa grant notification for you and each child
»» Copy of each child’s current passport Once you have completed all of the required documents, please
»» Academic transcript for each child submit your application directly to TAFE International.
Electronically completed forms and supporting documentation
should then be submitted to Student Support. Financial Aid for North American Students
Please note that we cannot accept handwritten forms, and
placement forms should never be sent directly to schools. North American students who are US or Canadian citizens, or
eligible non-citizens, can access Financial Aid loans from the US
If your application is successful, your children will be placed in a or Canadian government for their study in Australia.
school with spare capacity, although this may not be your school
of choice. Please contact the Student Financial Support Office at
scholarships@ murdoch.edu.au to register your interest in
While waiting for a school placement it is important that you do assessing eligibility for financial aid and organising loans.
not contact schools directly. If you have any questions regarding
Schooling for Dependants of international students, please U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
contact us.
The US Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) has a variety of 17
programs which pay education benefits for approved study or
Additional conditions relating to English language
Your guide to starting at Murdoch University 2018
training to eligible students.
support and special needs
»» Postgraduate (Masters or PhD) international students remain For more information, please visit
responsible for meeting the full tuition costs of the English our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/Finances/Overseas-student-
as a Second Language Program (ESL) for their dependants if loans/US-Veteran-Affairs/
required by the enrolling school; this will only be determined
once a placement is found.Cultural Transition and
Australian Customs
We want your university experience to be positive and enjoyable. 3. Be active
The memories and friends that you make here will last you a It is very difficult to meet people if you do not put yourself in
lifetime. However, starting alone in a new country can come with social situations. Going to class is not enough to make friends.
challenges that you’ve never faced before and we’d like to help Sport is a very big part of Australia culture, and if you’re
you in any way we can. Being able to understand certain cultural interested, it is a good way to meet people. If not, there are
and academic expectations is a good place to start when coming plenty of other activities both on and off campus. Join a cooking
into a new environment. The following are some tips on how to class, a club, a volunteer program and participate in the events
tackle your new environment. that the university offers. You can volunteer with Student Support
for orientation next semester too!
Social Culture Please visit The Guild website for clubs and volunteering
opportunities murdochguild.com.au/
1. Be observant 4. Be Respectful
Australians are generally quite friendly and laid back. However, It is ok to have a certain expectation about your new environment
people are different so be observant, go with the flow and be and compared to your home country, there may be a difference
yourself. You don’t have to do things that you don’t want to in the way people talk, act and dress in Australia. It is important
do, or things that you don’t feel comfortable with, just to fit in. to understand that everyone has a right to express themselves,
Individuality is respected in Australian culture. as long as it does not discriminate or disrespect others in the
process. Understanding differences will help you adjust to your
2. Be patient new environment.
Service - Australians believe in giving everyone an equal
Discrimination of any type is not tolerated at Murdoch University.
opportunity or ‘fair go’. No one person is more entitled than
We believe in equality for everyone, regardless of ethnicity, socio-
the other, especially based on who they are, where they come
economic background, gender, sexuality and religious beliefs.
from or what they pay. Waiting times for a range of things from
ordering food to email correspondence is done in an orderly and Experiencing new and different types of relationships is an
fair fashion. important part of university life; however, any relationship you
enter into must be respectful. In particular, for relationships of
Friends - You will meet many people in the university
a sexual nature, consent is taken very seriously and there are
environment. The first person you meet may not be the friend
university processes in place to deal with this.
you have until the end of your time here. Be patient, you’ll
eventually find your group of friends as time goes by. If you have experienced or witnessed any discrimination, or find
yourself in a difficult or non-consensual relationship, please do
not hesitate to book an appointment with the Counselling Service
or speak to a member of the Student Support team.
Academic Culture
18
Your guide to starting at Murdoch University 20181. Be punctual 4. Social Hierarchy
It is considered rude to be late for classes or appointments. Outside of the formal learning area, academics tend to
If you’re late to a lecture or tutorial, try and enter in a way that not draw a line and can be approached as friends. It is very
causes the least disturbance to the class. If you’re going to be common to see students having a drink with their professors
late for an appointment or cannot attend, you should send an after lectures. It is also normal to call your academics by their
email to the appropriate person in advance. The meeting can first name.
then be cancelled or rescheduled.
5. Learning Style
2. Email Etiquette If you have done your previous studies in a different country,
Feeling unsure how to word an email to an academic? Want to the learning style in Australia will likely be completely different
get the right balance between being respectful and fitting in to what you are familiar with.
with the casual Australian approach? Use this template to get
Adjusting to a different teaching style is something that every
yourself started.
International student goes through, and the university offers a
Dear (insert first name), range of free workshops to students who are facing academic
difficulties. If you find yourself in this situation, please speak to
1. Say who you are. For example: I am enrolled in your unit
a member of the Student Support team. Alternatively, you can
(insert unit code) and my student number is (insert number).
visit the Study Successfully website for information on learning
2. State the problem. For example: support our.murdoch.edu.au/Student-life/Study-successfully/
I would like assistance with... because….
I am having difficulty with… because…
I would like to swap classes because…
I would like to request an extension on… because…
If academics know why there is a problem, as in you have
shared the reasons for the difficulty, it makes it easier for them
to offer solutions, strategies and suggestions to assist you.
19
3. Thank them for their time
Your guide to starting at Murdoch University 2018
For example: Thank you for considering my request and I hope
to hear back from you soon.
Don’t assume a yes and don’t get upset with a no (it is not
personal).
Sign off with Regards, (insert your first name)Information for
Nursing Students
When you first arrive Uniforms
When you first arrive at Murdoch University make sure you have Uniforms are sold at the Murdoch University Bookshop on the
an appointment to talk with our Academic Support Officer by South Street campus.
emailing them at nursing@murdoch.edu.au
Clinical Placements
Mentors
You will need to produce evidence of any vaccinations that you
Mentors are second year students who volunteer to help new have had previously. The office will need to view both the original
students adjust to university life. Mentors help you settle into documentation and keep a photocopy for their records. Please
your studies, for example; showing you how to use LMS (Learning bring all your vaccination records with you from your home
Management System), organising your timetable and discussing country. It would be beneficial to have these records written
what your practical unit will be like. They are not tutors and in English.
cannot help with your assignments. However, they do provide
Once enrolled, go to the Clinical Practical site on the Learning
lots of assistance and can help point you in the right direction.
Management System. In the Clinical Documentation Guide you
To find a mentor please contact your Student Advisor on
will find a check-list of documents required by Week 6 so that you
HealthProAdvisor@murdoch.edu.au or visit
can go out on your Practicum.
goto.murdoch.edu.au/StudentAdvisors
20
Your guide to starting at Murdoch University 2018Important contact details
General help Phone
Bookshop and Booklist +61 8 9360 2540
Campus Emergency +61 8 9360 7333
Centre for University Teaching and Learning (CUTL) +61 8 9360 2142
Counselling +61 8 9360 1227
Equity and Social Inclusion +61 8 9360 6084
Guild Second Hand Bookshop +61 8 9360 6776
IT Service Desk (computer problems including MyMurdoch) +61 8 9360 2000
Library +61 8 9360 2563
Lost Property +61 8 9360 6262
Mandurah Campus Administration +61 8 9582 5501
Medical Service +61 8 9360 2293
Murdoch Student Guild 9360 2158
Murdoch University Village 9360 2909
The Guild +61 8 9360 2158
The Student Centre 1300 MURDOCH (1300 687 3624)
The Student Support Office +618 9360 7574
21
Your guide to starting at Murdoch University 2018South Street campus
Campus
Entrance B
UNDERPASS
PEDESTRIAN
UNDERPASS
305
CAM
PUS
DRIV
E
SPORTS COURTS SOCCER PITCH
12 418
P 4 P 3
TAVERN
11
415 LOWER
P 2
SPORTS CENTRE BUSH
COURT
10
425 CHANCELLERY 330
P 5 9
MIT MBS P 4A 1 ENVIRONMENTAL
ENGINEERING
SCIENCE
CHILD
CARE 430
CENTRE
8 BUSH
7 COURT
P 4B 440 PHYSICAL
SCIENCE AND
COMPUTING
MURDOCH SCIENCES CA
INTERACTIVE P 5A BUSINESS
Chinese Peace SOCIAL
14 245
Gardens Pavilion SCIENCES LIBRARY
TELEVISION SCHOOL
RESEARCH
INSTITUTE (ITRI) EDUCATION AND HUMANITIES 350 5 THE BROADWALK BIOLOGICAL SC
P 6 351
4 3
2
SUPER
15
WORSHIP TRANSPORTABLE 1–4 LONERAGAN
COMPUTER 235
CENTRE BUILDING
P 7C 461 ECONOMICS
COMMERCE AND LAW
VETERIN
SABC BIOLO
TRANSPORTABLE BUILDI
P 7B Campus and Facilities
BUSINESS, INFORMATION Management Office
TECHNOLOGY AND LAW
TEA TREE LOOP
6
BANKSIA 381
COURT
P 7A P 8D
KULBARDI BIDDI
260
AMENITIES P 8C VETERINARY
BUILDING 16 CLINICAL
HEALTH SCIENCES
RESEARCH BUILDING
CAMPUS LIVING 490 13 CENTRE P 8B
270
VILLAGE P 8A
DISCOVERY WAY
P 6B CHIROPRACTIC
TECHNIQUES
LABORATORY
22 RY
WA
Y
P 8
VE
CO
DIS
Your guide to starting at Murdoch University 2018
P 7 810
BEELIAR REGIONAL PARK
Chelodina Reserve
CHELODINA
RESERVECampus
Entrance C SOU
TH
STRE
ET
References
1 The Student Centre (Building 330)
»» Prospective Students’ and Admissions Centre
»» Murdoch International
P 1 2 Pop-up Ref (Building 344)
3 Library and Learning Common (Building 350)
TRANSPORTABLES 4 Guild and 2nd Hand Bookshop (Building 490)
5 ECL Lecture Theatres: (Building 460)
MURDOCH SW31 »» ECL1 – Economics Commerce and Law
TRANSPORTABLES COLLEGE
Lecture Theatre 1
AMPUS ASIAN FOODS
»» ECL2 – Economics Commerce and Law
CAM PUS DRIVE
Lecture Theatre 2
CIENCES
ANIMAL »» ECL3 – Economics Commerce and Law
ISOLATION
UNIT Lecture Theatre 3
»» ECL4 – Economics Commerce and Law
P 12 Lecture Theatre 4
NARY WESFARMERS
OGY GLASS HOUSES ENERGY 6 HLT- Hill Lecture Theatre (Building 450)
ELS
MUR
ING
COMPOUND 7 VBS3.024 – Vet Biology Sciences Building (250)
8 Freehills Law LT – Law Building (465)
DOC
ANIMAL ANIMAL 9 KBLT – Kim E Beazley Lecture Theatre
HOUSE 1 HOUSE 2 Campus
D
H D
Entrance (Building 351)
P 9C
4 3
2
P 12 St. 10
John of
SS1.032 and SS1.036 – Social Sciences Building
God Hospital
RIVE
5 1 (440)
P 9B ANIMAL
6 HOUSE 11 Biological Sciences Lecture Theatre
PADDOCKS 10
(Building 240)
P 9A 7 10
12 Faculty Student Administration Education and
8 9
NYARRIE DRIVE
Humanities Building EH 2.002 (Building 450)
P 10 13 Guild – Amenities Building
Driv
e (490)
all
P 9 14 RLT –rsRobertson
arsh
hall Barry M Lecture Theatre (Buidling 245)
P 11 y Ma
Barr
D rive
15 LBLT – Loneragan Building Lecture Theatre
(Building 235)
CENTRAL STORES 16
Fiona
VCSStanley
2.8 – Veterinary Clinical Sciences Building 23
ERY WAY (260)
Hospital Fiona Stanley Hospital
Your guide to starting at Murdoch University 2018
DISCOV
Campus
Entrance E
D
ROA
CLINIC
PADDOCKS
PUS
AM
TH C
SOU
CLINIC
PADDOCKS SW31
map.murdoch.edu.au
MurdochCRICOS Provider Code 00125J DW1772 11/17
twitter.com/MurdochUni
facebook.com/MurdochUniversity
2018
instagram.com/MurdochUniversity
Disclaimer
The information contained in this publication was correct as at November
2017, but is subject to amendment without notice. The University reserves
the right to cancel, without notice, any units or courses if the number of
students enrolled in these falls below limits set by the University.
© 2017 Murdoch University
This publication is copyright. Except as permitted by the Copyright Act no
part of it may in any form or by any electronic, mechanical, photocopying,
recording or any other means be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or
be broadcast or transmitted without the prior permissionof the publisher.You can also read
