WELCOME A RESOURCE GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS - SWINBURNE.EDU.AU/INTERNATIONAL - Swinburne University
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WELCOME A RESOURCE GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS SWINBURNE.EDU.AU/INTERNATIONAL
CONTENTS
Getting to Swinburne 4
Starting at Swinburne 6
Support services 7
Studying at Swinburne 8
Meeting new friends 9
Keeping in touch 10
Banking 12
Students with families 13
Health and safety 14
Safety on campus 15
Accommodation 16
Life in Melbourne 18
Lifestyle and leisure activities 20
Shopping 21
Eating out 23
Religion and places of worship 24
Your student visa 25
Paying your tuition fees 26
Important contacts 27
3
GETTING TO SWINBURNE
Getting to Swinburne is easy because all campuses are accessible by public transport.
Car parking is available at Hawthorn campus for a fee, and free parking is available at
Croydon and Wantirna campuses.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT Apply at StudentHQ Hawthorn for Please note: international students
an iUSEpass studying ELICOS, Foundation Year,
For public transport timetables, VE certificate and postgraduate
ticketing information and route maps When you buy an International
Undergraduate Student Education Pass programs are currently NOT eligible
visit ptv.vic.gov.au for the iUSEpass.
(iUSEpass) you are buying an annual
·· m
yki: is Melbourne’s ticketing system. public transport pass at 50% off the For more information, visit:
Find out everything you need to know normal cost. ptv.vic.gov.au/tickets/myki/concessions-
about travelling with myki including and-free-travel/children-and-students/
how it works, where to buy it and how The criteria for the iUSEpass are as follows:
international-students
to top up. ·· iUSEpass valid for 365 days – one
year from activation of the card If you are eligible under the criteria listed
·· iUSEpass: is available for international
above, the International Counter at Student
students enrolled in a full-time ·· P
rovides a 50% discount on myki
HQ Hawthorn will issue a code (unique to
undergraduate course (Bachelor full fares – that is:
you) which you will need to purchase your
Degree or Associate Degree) or a - N
ormal annual pass cost $1722.50 pass from Public Transport Victoria.
higher VE course (Advanced Diploma
- iUSEpass cost $861.25
or Diploma) to purchase a half-price
annual myki ticket for the zone/s in
which they study.
4
GETTING TO SWINBURNE’S
HAWTHORN CAMPUS
John Street, Hawthorn
TRAIN
Glenferrie Station is on the Belgrave,
Lilydale and Alamein Lines.
It takes about 10 minutes to travel
from Flinders Street Station in the city
to Glenferrie Station. It is a one-minute
walk to campus.
TRAM
No. 16 Melbourne University to Kew via
City and St Kilda.
The nearest tram stop is on Glenferrie
Road, a five-minute walk from campus.
BUS
No. 624 Kew – Chadstone Shopping
Centre – Holmesglen TAFE – Oakleigh.
The bus travels along Auburn Road.
From the bus stop it takes about
10 minutes to walk to campus.
GETTING TO SWINBURNE’S
WANTIRNA CAMPUS
369 Stud Road, Wantirna
TRAIN AND BUS
Boronia Station is on the Belgrave Line.
It takes 50 minutes to travel from
Flinders Street Station in the city to
Boronia. Bus Nos. 737 and 745 run from
Boronia Station to Knox City, which is a
short walk from the Wantirna campus.
BUS
Wantirna campus is serviced by many
buses which terminate at Knox City
Shopping Centre. From Knox City, it is
a short walk up Stud Road to the
Wantirna campus.
No. 664 Chirnside Park – Knox City
No. 732 Box Hill to Upper Ferntree Gully
No. 737 Croydon to Monash University
No. 738 Mitcham to Knox City
No. 745A Bayswater – Knox City –
Wantirna Primary School
No. 755 Bayswater – Knox City via
Basin, Boronia, Ferntree Gully
No. 757 Scoresby to Knox City
No. 758 Scoresby to Knox City
5
STARTING AT SWINBURNE
WHAT DO I NEED TO DO? Student Welcome and Briefing. Even if As well as the opportunities above, there is
you enrol before your arrival, you are still a special ‘Meet & Greet’ session where staff
1. ENROL ONLINE required to attend the Welcome and from each faculty will chat with you
After accepting your offer, you will receive Briefing, which will provide you with an informally about study at Swinburne and the
information about enrolling into your introduction to Orientation Week and the specialised Strategies for Success program
course. All Swinburne students are most important people and services specific to international students.
required to enrol online. available to support your success.
You must attend the Welcome and
This means you can enrol before you 2. ATTEND THE WELCOME Briefing as well as your course-specific
arrive in Melbourne. By enrolling online AND BRIEFING orientation which is run by your faculty
before you arrive, you will be more or school. The Welcome and Briefing will
Orientation Week starts with a Welcome
organised and prepared to make the ensure that you understand the sessions
and Briefing for international students.
most of the guidance you will receive specific to your course later in the week –
This week will give you an introduction
during the Welcome and Briefing, and so don’t miss out on a thing!
to how the most successful students
your course-specific orientation day.
manage their university studies and 3. ATTEND YOUR COURSE-SPECIFIC
Enrolling as early as possible also gives personal life: how to be aware ORIENTATION
you the opportunity to choose the best of what’s important, and how to use all of The orientation program includes a
class times (where permitted). Many the support available to your advantage. series of course-specific workshops and
classes may fill up before you arrive and The Welcome and Briefing day and your on-campus activities. It is designed to
limit choices in your timetable. course-specific orientation day are the introduce you to the academic, social
two most important days for successful and community aspects of student life
It is advisable to enrol online before you
transition into your course and the at Swinburne. The schedule for the day/s
arrive. The link and instructions here;
support systems, and provides all the specific to your course orientation will
swinburne.edu.au/current-students/
information you will need to make the be advertised on the orientation website
manage-course/enrolment-timetable/
most of orientation week. and at the Welcome and Briefing.
how-to-enrol. Your Course Planner and
following the step by step guide should It will also give you the opportunity to During orientation week you can:
answer most of your questions. But if meet Swinburne’s International Student
·· talk to current Swinburne students
you still have questions, our advice is Advisers (ISAs) who can provide the
to complete your enrolment as you advice and support services that will help ·· m
eet your future classmates
think, and call into the helpful staff at you adjust to life and study in Australia. and teachers
the Library and StudentHQ at Hawthorn In addition, there will be an expo where ·· get advice about your course
once you arrive. The International you can meet and talk to staff from ·· a
nd enjoy the food and on-campus
Student Advisory & Support team the student support network and local entertainment.
will give you directions and times for community services. You can also sign up
to student clubs, activities and events. For more information, visit:
enrolment support at your International
swinburne.edu.au/current-students/
get-started/orientation/international-
students-orientation
6
SUPPORT SERVICES
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT For more information, visit
ADVISORY & SUPPORT swinburne.edu.au/current-
students/student-services-support/
International Student Advisory & Support international/emergency
is made up of a team of International
Student Advisers (ISAs) who can provide HEALTH AND WELLBEING
advice and support on your academic
Swinburne has a confidential counselling
and personal welfare and safety during
service for students who may be
your time at Swinburne. The team
experiencing personal or academic
includes an accommodation adviser
difficulties. Counsellors provide support
for assistance with all accommodation
for a range of issues, including:
enquiries and an employability specialist
offering a range of employability-focused ·· personal, relationship and family issues
activities and events especially tailored ·· e
ffective study and academic
for international students. If you have progress problems For more information, visit
any questions Ask an ISA.
·· s tudying and learning more effectively swin.edu.au/careers
This is a free and confidential service. ·· e
xam anxiety, motivation and using
time more efficiently
SWINBURNE STUDENT LIFE
Note: If you receive a notice or warning
letter from Swinburne, we strongly advise ·· stress, grief and loss Swinburne Student Life provides all
you to take special note of any due dates, ·· a
djusting to Australian culture Swinburne students with free services
speak up early and make and university life. such as:
sure you understand your rights ·· clubs and societies
For more information, visit
and responsibilities.
swinburne.edu.au/stuserv/counselling ·· orientation activities and events
Services include: ·· independent academic advice
LEARNING AND ACADEMIC and advocacy
·· p
rivate and confidential advice about
SKILLS
managing your personal welfare and ·· student diary and publications
safety needs and issues Learning and Academic Skills advisers ·· S
tudent Leadership and Volunteer
·· a
dvice if you feel confused about provide advice on how to improve your Program
your course or any advice given about academic skills and how to meet your
·· t raining, workshops and opportunities
your studies course requirements.
to discuss any study issues
·· s upport and advice if you are unsure For more information, see page 8 or visit ·· legal advice.
about a notice you have received swinburne.edu.au/international/las
from Swinburne For more information, visit
·· a
dvice and referral for complaint and CENTRE FOR CAREER swinburne.edu.au/current-students/
grievance processes DEVELOPMENT campus-life/student-organisations
·· a
dvice before you choose to withdraw Swinburne’s Centre for Career SWINBURNE STUDENT UNION
or request a release from your course Development offers a range of services (SSU)
·· an accommodation help desk that can assist you to plan your career
and build a body of experience and skills The Swinburne Student Union (SSU) is
·· s pecialised support and workshops Swinburne’s independent, student-run
that will give you an advantage when
for international students to boost representation, welfare and events service.
applying for a job. They also offer
their employability
one-on-one career consultation. They organise fun and interesting events
·· e
xtensive critical incident support
Services include: on all campuses throughout the year,
for students affected by accident,
including campaigns to represent and
illness or home country issues. ·· S
winEmploy – online job database protect student interests and rights.
For more information, visit for graduate, part-time, casual and
voluntary work They are located on Level 4 of the
swinburne.edu.au/student/
UN building at Hawthorn campus
international/support.html ·· GoinGlobal – international job database
(above the bookshop).
Note: Students who experience ·· career counselling
For more information, visit ssu.org.au
unexpected or serious illness, injury, or ·· job search tools
are affected by world or natural events ·· job application checking
in their home country should notify
·· workshops, conferences and webinars.
International Student Life immediately.
7
STUDYING AT SWINBURNE
The academic environment at Swinburne might be very different to what you are used to.
Teaching methods may include lectures, tutorials, classes, laboratory sessions, web-based
sessions and other methods.
You will be expected to actively participate as lecturers often refer to specific page MATHEMATICS AND STATISTICS
in this learning process. You will be numbers that can vary from one edition HELP CENTRE
encouraged to express, analyse and to the next. Your lecturer will recommend
develop your own ideas and opinions; a specific textbook/s for the subject, The Mathematics and Statistics Help
effectively helping you improve your but you are expected to consult a number Centre (MASH) Centre is a drop-in learning
communications skills. Students are of different texts, including journals, space for students who want to ask
expected to conduct independent study current newspapers and magazines. questions about the maths and stats in
outside of class contact hours as a The library also holds copies of the their course. You do not need to book an
necessary adjunct to the subject content. recommended texts for many subjects. appointment. MASH is open Monday to
Friday from 9.30am to 4.30pm
LECTURES LIBRARY FACILITIES (during semester).
Lectures are designed to help you The libraries located on each campus For more information, visit
understand the topic you are studying. provide extensive facilities for all swinburne.edu.au/mash
Your lecturer summarises the main points students. Facilities include computer
of the topic and introduces other related COMPLAINTS AND APPEALS
and internet access, equipment loans
areas. You are expected to attend all including laptops, access to online All students have the right to complain
lectures, and you are encouraged to take journals and databases, late-night and appeal if they feel that they
notes during the lectures. computer lab and group-study rooms. have been treated unfairly. For more
Lecture notes prepared by the lecturer information about Swinburne’s policies
For more information, visit
may also be available online. Some regarding the handling of complaints and
swinburne.edu.au/lib
lectures are recorded. Students whose appeals, visit swinburne.edu.au/policies
lectures have been recorded can view LEARNING AND ACADEMIC These policies include the General
lectures online after the lecture has been SKILLS Grievance Procedures for Students Policy.
delivered. This will help you to summarise
and prepare your own notes if you have The Learning and Academic Skills (LAS) International Student Advisers are
missed any important points. Centre provides free academic and available for advice on complaints or
learning advice. LAS advisers can help appeals processes. Swinburne Student
TUTORIALS AND CLASSES you with reading, writing, listening and Life (SSL) advocacy officers can also assist
speaking skills that will benefit you both i students to write and submit letters of
These usually run in conjunction with n and out of the classroom. complaint or appeal. They will also attend
the lectures. They are conducted in meetings with students to ensure they
much smaller groups and enable you to You can make individual appointments with
understand the processes and decisions.
ask questions and participate in class LAS advisers (including maths and computing
discussions. Group work is very common teachers) to review assignments and prepare
in tutorials and classes, where everybody for examinations. LAS also run workshops to
in the team is expected to contribute, as assist you in developing the necessary skills
marks are equally distributed across the and techniques to achieve your academic
group members. goals. If you wish to practice your listening and
speaking skills, and meet some new friends,
TEXTBOOKS there is also a conversation group.
For more information, visit
Second-hand textbooks can be purchased
swinburne.edu.au/international/las
from the campus bookshop. You will
need to ensure that the author, title and
edition of the book you are buying are
the same as that on your reading list. The
edition of the book is especially important
8
MEETING NEW FRIENDS
International Student Advisory &
Support (ISA&S) also organise events
and activities that are specifically
designed to help international students
understand more about safety and life
in Melbourne, and at Swinburne.
For more information, visit
swinburne.edu.au/current-students/
campus-life/student-organisations
SWINBURNE NEWSLETTERS
All students regularly receive the
Swinburne Student News via their
Swinburne email account.
As an International student, you are
automatically subscribed to the Freetime
newsletter to give you information
on events and activities around
Melbourne, to engage with the Australian
There are many ways of meeting people who will provide advice and support community. Learn about the exciting
and making new friends in Melbourne. services for the duration of your time at events, festivals, and activities happening
The best place to begin is to get involved Swinburne. You will receive advice about the in your community and get involved by
with the activities at Swinburne and to rest of Orientation Week and your course- checking out the updates on Freetime.
join one of the many clubs on campus. specific orientation program. If you have any
questions at this time, Ask an ISA. To unsubscribe, email
STUDENT CLUBS AND freetime@swin.edu.au
SOCIETIES COURSE-SPECIFIC
ORIENTATION HAWTHORN AQUATIC
Have you ever wanted to explore an AND LEISURE CENTRE
interest such as art or photography? The course-specific orientation session
Meet others from your home country is the start of your academic life at Swinburne students can swim at the
or who are interested in your culture or Swinburne. Current Swinburne students Hawthorn Aquatic and Leisure Centre
home country? Make new friends with (O’Hosts) will show you around campus (HALC) free of charge. All you need to
people from another culture? and help you adjust to the university do is present your Swinburne student
environment. It is an opportunity for you card at reception.
At Swinburne you can join one of the
many clubs and societies, meet new to meet other new students, teachers HALC also offers a discounted gym
people and discover a personal interest. and representatives from your faculty membership for Swinburne students,
or school. including group exercise classes on
Can’t find one you like? Why not ask
a no-contract (casual) basis. There is
about creating your own! SWINBURNE STUDENT
a joining fee with the membership.
For more information, visit LIFE (SSL)
swinburne.edu.au/current-students/ For more information, visit
The SSL provides opportunities to meet hawthorn.boroondaraleisure.com.au
campus-life/clubs-societies people such as the clubs and societies
and orientation activities and events.
WELCOME AND BRIEFING
For more information, visit
Your introduction to Swinburne
swinburne.edu.au/current-students/
starts with the international student
life/student-organisations
Welcome and Briefing on the first day
of Orientation Week. The Welcome TRIPS AND ACTIVITIES
and Briefing provides you with all
the information you will need to To help you get involved in university
make the most of orientation week. life, students are encouraged to take
It also introduces you to Swinburne’s advantage of the low-cost trips and
International Student Advisers (ISAs), activities organised for all students
by the SSL.
9
KEEPING IN TOUCH
POST TELEPHONES PHONE CARDS
It may be cheaper to use a pre-paid
Australia Post manages postal services Australia’s country code is +61 and
phone card to call mobiles, long distance,
for Australia. the area code for Victoria (and
and/or overseas from your home phone.
Melbourne) is 03.
Examples of postage prices There
Small letter within Australia..................$1.00* Australia has many mobile phone and are many different phone cards available,
home phone service providers. They offering different rates for different
Airmail letter up to 50g
usually offer a range of phone plans with countries. You might like to ask other
Asia/Pacific Zone........................................... $2.30*
different fees depending on the kind of students which phone cards they use.
Rest of World Zone..................................... $3.00* phone calls you make. Some companies
You can buy phone cards at convenience
*Prices correct at time of printing. offer discounts if you have both a home
stores, supermarkets and online.
and mobile phone or broadband internet
There are different stamps for use on
account with them. Shop around to get MOBILE PHONES
domestic and international mail. Make
the best deal. There are many mobile phone service
sure
you ask for the correct type at the All costs in this section are approximate. providers in Australia, offering pre-paid
post office. There are several post offices They will vary depending on the accounts and/or periodical bills. You
located conveniently near campus and telephone company and the contract will normally pay a connection fee
the surrounding area. you choose. plus a rate per minute for phone calls
and a flat rate for SMS. Websites such
HOME PHONES as whistleout.com.au/mobilephones
HAWTHORN POST OFFICE
If you decide to have a telephone line provide comparisons of the plans available.
782 Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn
in your home, you will normally pay a
(03) 9818 1908 PAYPHONES
one-off connection fee and a monthly
Opening hours* line rental fee (from $20 and above). Local calls from most payphones cost
50 cents. It may be cheaper to use
9am–5pm, Monday to Friday Local calls from residential telephones a phone card for long-distance and
9am–12pm, Saturday cost around 25-30 cents per call. international calls.
Closed Sunday Calls to mobile phones vary.
TELEPHONE DIRECTORIES
Also: Hawthorn West, Glenferrie For long-distance calls within Australia,
South, and Auburn Melbourne has two main telephone
charges vary.
directories: the Yellow Pages and the
To find a post office near you, visit For international calls you will normally White Pages. Use the Yellow Pages if you
www.auspost.com.au pay a connection fee and a rate are searching for a business by category
per minute. (e.g. bookshops). If you know the name
of a business or are looking for a
residential address or phone number, use
the White Pages.
yellowpages.com.au
whitepages.com.au
DIRECTORY ASSISTANCE
This is an automated system. Call
charges will apply. Call charges are
usually higher from mobile devices than
land-line or pay phones. You may need to
dial a different number from your mobile.
Check with your provider.
Local and national: 1223 (50c flat rate)
International: 1225 ($2.20 flat rate
10COMPUTERS AND INTERNET It is very important that you check COMMUNICATING WITH
your Swinburne email regularly as the SWINBURNE STAFF
There are open access computer university sends important messages
laboratories and a wireless laptop and official notifications to this address. Swinburne staff are very helpful and will
borrowing facility at the Hawthorn It is advisable to connect your Swinburne always take time to listen to your enquiry,
and Wantirna campus libraries. 24-hour student email to your personal email and try to assist you wherever possible.
access to late labs and study rooms are address if you are concerned you may Swinburne is also a multicultural
available at the Hawthorn campus. not see official notices. university. Should you have trouble
Wireless internet access is available at Note: Please use your student email communicating your enquiry, there may
all campuses. You will also find wireless account when emailing International be a staff member who can speak your
internet available in some cafés, Student Advisers or other staff. Staff can language. If you are ever unsure, you
restaurants and shopping centres. then identify you before responding to can Ask an ISA.
EMAIL your questions. For privacy and security
reasons, staff cannot confirm a person’s
When you enrol, you will automatically
identity from a private email account.
receive an official Swinburne student
Anyone can use your name, but no one
email address.
else can use your student ID account.
Your student email address will be in
the format student ID number@
student.swin.edu.au.
To access your email, visit
swinburne.edu.au/current-students/
get-started/access-systems/email/
11BANKING
OPENING A BANK ACCOUNT BRANCHES BANK DRAFT OR BANK CHEQUE
All banks are open Monday to Friday. When you deposit an overseas bank
Australia has many banks, building
Some banking is available on Saturday draft into your account, it can take up
societies and credit unions. The larger
mornings. Please check open and to 30 days to clear (become available
banks include ANZ, Commonwealth
close times with your bank of choice. for withdrawal) depending on the
Bank, National Australia Bank and
Opening times vary. country of issue. You may also be
Westpac. You can choose which bank
charged a currency conversion fees.
to use for your banking. TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES
8am–8pm, Monday to Friday OTHER WAYS TO
From 2019, the Community Bank®
TRANSFER MONEY
at Swinburne hub at Swinburne’s TELEPHONE AND
Hawthorn Campus is a partnership There are organisations other than
INTERNET BANKING
between Swinburne and Bendigo Bank banks where you can send or receive
24 hours, 7 days money. For example, many Australia
which directs banking profits back
into the community. Swinburne staff, RECEIVING MONEY Post branches are agents for Western
students, and alumni have access to FROM OVERSEAS Union Money Transfer Services.
a range of special offers, with more The following information is provided For information on how to pay your
details available at bendigobank.com. as a guide. Please check clearance tuition fees, see page 26.
au/swinburne. times and fees with your own bank.
It is advisable to open an account TELEGRAPHIC TRANSFER BE AWARE OF SCAMS
within six weeks of arrival, as during
Money sent by telegraphic transfer can Be aware that loans or money
this time your passport and proof of
take up to three working days to be advertised as easy or quick to access
enrolment will be sufficient to verify
deposited into your Melbourne bank may not be as simple as they seem.
your identity. After this time, you may
account. Your Melbourne bank may
require further proof of identity. ISA&S provides warnings to
charge you a fee (approximately $10
international students when we
Many banks offer low-cost or no-fee or more), which will be paid out of the
become aware of scams
accounts for students – so make sure transferred funds. You may also be
or unacceptable business practices.
you ask! charged a currency conversion fee.
If you are unsure Ask an ISA
BANKING HOURS Note: If you intend to receive money
The following are general opening from overseas via telegraphic transfer, Find more and report scams at
hours – they may vary from bank check if the bank in your home country scamwatch scamwatch.gov.au
to bank. has an agreement with a bank in
Melbourne. This may mean lower fees
and faster processing times for you.
12STUDENTS WITH FAMILIES
UNIVERSITY AND PARENTHOOD MATERNAL AND CHILD
HEALTH CENTRES
International Student Advisory & Support
team runs a Juggling Uni and Parenthood The Australian Government has maternal
workshop specifically designed to assist and child health centres in every
and support students with families. The suburb (town) to monitor the health and
workshop includes presenters like the development of babies and pre-school
Department of Education and Training children aged 0-5 years and provide
and the local city council, providing support for families with young children.
students with information, advice and The following website offers useful
resources to help them manage the information for parents with young
challenges of both family and study children including where to find
commitments. For more information a maternal and child health centre in
about this event and other International your area, playgroups and parent groups,
Student Life events, visit swinburne. and information about what you can
edu.au/student/international/events expect when you visit a maternal and
child health nurse.
SWINBURNE CHILDCARE
CENTRES For more information, visit education.vic.
gov.au/childhood/parents/mch
Swinburne has childcare centres at
Hawthorn, Croydon and Wantirna SCHOOLS
campuses that are available for the
If you have children between five and
children of Swinburne students and staff.
17 years of age, who you plan to bring
These centres are operated and managed
to Australia, you must enrol them in
by independent co-operatives and waiting
school. Arrangements for enrolment
lists may apply. Further information can be
must be made prior to any child arriving
obtained by contacting the centres directly.
in Australia.
For more information, visit swinburne.
edu.au/stuserv/childcare SELECTING A SCHOOL
For a complete list of Victorian
COMMUNITY CHILDCARE
Government primary and secondary
CENTRES
schools, as well as information about
Placing your child in care is a personal fees and how to apply, visit study.vic.
decision, and you are encouraged to gov.au
visit a few different childcare centres
Applications to non-government schools
before making a decision. It is important
must be made directly to the school
to choose a centre that you feel most
of your choice.
comfortable with, and one that can
meet your child’s needs. The following ENROLLING YOUR CHILD IN
websites provide information for parents A GOVERNMENT SCHOOL
about early childhood education and
care for children aged between 0-5 years. You will need to complete an online
You can also search for an approved application which is available from the
childcare centre or family day care in Department of Education website, prior
your local area. to enrolling your child in a school.
education.vic.gov.au/childhood/ For information about school fees and
parents/childcare how to apply, visit study.vic.gov.au
ifp.mychild.gov.au/ChildCareService/
Search.aspx
13HEALTH AND SAFETY
HEALTH AND WELLBEING Take note of where you are and if possible, MEDIBANK PRIVATE IS THE
AT SWINBURNE the names of the closest intersecting PREFERRED OSHC PROVIDER
streets. Give the address if you know it, AT SWINBURNE.
A professional General Practice is or you can give the name of the nearest
available for both nurse and general street corner. For more information visit
practitioner (Doctor) appointments at swinburne.edu.au/study/
A ’first-responder’ system operates in
the Hawthorn campus. Staff are friendly international/offer/overseas-student-
Victoria which means that if you are
and respect the confidentiality of patients health-cover
expecting an ambulance, fire fighters
regarding their medical, social and
may arrive first if they are closer. ALL Medibank is here for you. If you have
financial needs. emergency services in Victoria are trained questions about your cover, a claim or
There is no gap fee for students with first-responders and carry emergency if you need to go to hospital, you can
Overseas Student Health Cover. equipment for urgent medical support contact Medibank:
until paramedics arrive.
For more information, visit ·· Visit the on-campus representative
swinburne.edu.au/stuserv/health 24-HOUR URGENT ASSISTANCE available Tuesday – Friday at the
Swinburne International Counter at
Alternatively, you can find Doctors at the International Student Advisory & Support Student HQ,LB Building, Hawthorn
Victorian Government Better Health site: provide a special after-hours urgent Campus
betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/ assistance line for international students.
serviceprofiles/General-practitioner- ·· Telephone 134 148
services It is available from 5pm to 9am Monday ·· Email oshc@medibank.com.au or visit
to Friday and 24 hours on weekends or medibank.com.au/overseas-health-
In Australia, a pharmacy or drug store whenever the university is closed. insurance/oshc/
is often called a ‘chemist’. Pharmacies
in Victoria cannot fill prescriptions Call the ISA appointment line after hours
on 9214 6741. ACTIVATING YOUR
written by doctors overseas. You will
MEDIBANK POLICY
need to see an Australian doctor for The After-hours Assistance Line is
a new prescription. operated by advisers who know and A welcome email will be sent to
understand Swinburne procedures and your Swinburne student email with
To find a doctor who speaks a language
community support services and can instructions on how to activate your
other than English, visit serviceseeker.
provide you with appropriate advice Medibank OSHC policy when you arrive in
com.au. Use the advanced search
or referral for any concerns or urgent Australia. Once complete, you will be able
button, top right. Enter the term 'general
matters that arise after-hours. to access Medibank’s Online Member
practitioner', specify the language and
Services and will receive an email with
your location. If you are hospitalised or have an emergency
a link to a digital membership card. You
Swinburne may provide critical incident
If you need emergency medical treatment can download and save the digital card to
support immediately.
outside normal business hours, some your photo library on your mobile phone.
medical clinics remain open after-hours, All calls made to the after-hours assistance You will also receive a plastic membership
so check your local medical clinic for line are reported to International Student card. This will automatically be posted to
opening hours. There is also a doctor on Advisory & Support each morning and your Australian address and will arrive
call service: dial 13SICK (137425) to request an International Student Adviser may within 10 business days.
a doctor to visit you at home after-hours, contact you to offer further support
and assistance as needed. Download the App
or Nurse-on-call: 1300 60 60 24 puts you
directly in touch with a registered nurse for In an emergency situation, dial 000. allianzassistancehealth.com.au/en/
caring, professional health advice. In an helpcentre/oshc/oshc-app
emergency, dial 000. OVERSEAS STUDENT
HEALTH COVER OTHER OHSC PROVIDERS
EMERGENCY
All international students on a student Students who hold OSHC with another
If you require emergency services in visa must have Overseas Student Health provider should visit their provider’s
Australia, dial 000. The operator will ask you Cover (OSHC). This cover provides medical website for information about services
if you need police, fire, or ambulance and and hospital insurance. You and your and claims.
transfer you to the service immediately. The dependants must maintain OSHC for REMEMBER to advise International
emergency service operator will ask you the duration of your visa and you must
a series of questions and give you advice. Student Advisory & Support if you are
not arrive in Australia before your health
While they are doing this, an emergency hospitalised
insurance starts.
service vehicle will be dispatched and on its Telephone 9214 6741
way to where you are. If you are concerned Having valid OSHC is a condition of your
(24 hour assistance)
about your language, ask for an interpreter. student visa. Breaches of your student visa
conditions may incur serious consequences.
14SAFETY ON CAMPUS
SWINBURNE SECURITY SAFER COMMUNITY SAFETY IN THE COMMUNITY
Call Swinburne Security on 9214 3333. The Safer Community program aims The International Student Advisory
to encourage students and staff to & Support Team works with Victoria
Security services include:
play a significant part in campus Police, Metropolitan Fire Brigade and
·· Security escort service – a security
safety by looking out for one another Surf Life Saving Victoria to ensure
officer will walk you to your car.
and reporting inappropriate and international students understand how
·· H
awthorn Night Bus – takes you to threatening behaviours. to stay safe while living in Melbourne.
a nearby carpark or public transport Representatives from the police and
at night safely. Safer Community provides information,
fire brigade attend the international
advice, support, and intervention
·· L
ost property – call Security if you student Welcome and Briefing to
for students or staff impacted by
have misplaced personal items. provide you with information on public
inappropriate or threatening behaviour.
safety, community expectations and
SAFETY TIPS Safer Community can offer: the support services that are available
AROUND CAMPUS: ·· A safe space for Swinburne students to you.
·· F
amiliarise yourself with your campus and staff to voice concerns about
International Student Advisory & Support
security office and save the security their own safety and wellbeing and
run a Bush & Beach excursion twice
emergency number 9214 3333 into that of others.
a year to give international students
your phone. ·· P
ersonalised student support, safety hands-on knowledge about bush and
·· H
awthorn campus: Building 1A, entry advice, and referrals for victims of beach safety. Watch for the events and
alongside the Glenferrie Railway Station. crime, violence, sexual assault, join us in March and November.
harassment, and bullying.
·· C
roydon campus: Building CO, entry We also recommend that you read
from Norton Road, near Gate 1A. ·· W
ays to manage behaviours that are
the information provided by Victoria
worrying you e.g., how to tell someone
·· W
antirna campus: Building WD, Police about:
to ‘please stop and go away’.
located near the campus library. ·· Public transport safety
·· A
lways be alert and aware of your Visit swinburne.edu.au/safercommunity
·· R
eporting crime, sexual assault,
surroundings. If you are using or complaints against police
SAFE@SWIN
headphones, only use one earplug
·· Child abuse
so you can hear sounds around you. The Safe@Swin iPhone and Android
·· Community Resource Officers
·· Keep your valuables with you at all times. app is the official app of the Safer
Community Program for students and ·· F
amily violence: reporting and
·· W
alk in well-lit areas in pairs or
staff to access contact details for campus support services
groups if possible.
security guards, student support services, ·· Outdoor and bush safety
·· U
se the security escort service or the
information on reporting emergencies ·· R
oad safety, including the use of
Night Bus to get to public transport
and safety issues, personal safety tools mobile phones, alcohol and drugs,
or your car safely.
and advice, campus maps and a range and seatbelts when in charge of
·· Avoid parking your car in an isolated area. of services to make Swinburne a safer a vehicle
·· C
lose and lock all doors and windows place for everyone.
·· Sexual assault
and don’t leave valuables in sight
To download the Safe@Swin app, visit:
in your car. Visit police.vic.gov.au/content.
swinburne.edu.au/safercommunity
asp?Document_ID=40360
You can also Ask an ISA if you want to
discuss anything you read or are told
about your rights and responsibilities
while you are living in Melbourne. If you
feel unconformable about reporting
a crime to police, you can Ask an
ISA to accompany you to make your
report. An ISA can also refer you to the
Swinburne Student Life legal service.
For more information, visit
swinburne.edu.au/current-students/
student-services-support/legal-service
15ACCOMMODATION
The main accommodation options ACCOMMODATION OFF-CAMPUS
available to international students are: AT HAWTHORN ACCOMMODATION
·· O
n-campus: residential colleges and HOMESTAY ACCOMMODATION
SWINBURNE PLACE APARTMENTS
student apartments
Located in the heart of the Hawthorn Homestay is managed by Australian
·· O
ff-campus student housing: student Homestay Network (AHN). Homestay
campus, these apartments are fully
apartments and hostels means living with a local family or
furnished and equipped with modern
·· S
hare housing: sharing a house appliances. Apartments are available as resident. It is a cultural exchange
or apartment with other students studio, or two-, three- or four-bedroom between a local individual or family
·· R
ental housing: renting a vacant house layouts. Each apartment has separate (called a Host) and a visiting international
or apartment bathroom and kitchen facilities and student. The student lives as a guest in
·· Homestay: living with a local family. includes TV, telephone, broadband the Host’s home and the program is a
internet connection, a fully equipped great way for students to learn English
Many students initially choose on- kitchen and individual locks. The building and experience the Australian lifestyle.
campus or homestay accommodation, has a security entrance, communal
and move to off-campus share or rental What is included in homestay?
lounge, study and indoor and outdoor
accommodation once they are settled. ·· supportive, secure family home
recreation areas. Students only need to
environment
bring their clothes, personal items and
TEMPORARY ACCOMMODATION ·· t wo to three meals a day, a furnished
computer. Easy access and no travel costs
to Hawthorn campus for classes, library, bedroom, electricity, gas and water
The three main short-term
accommodation options used by computer labs, sports facilities etc. ·· p
rofessional phone support line, available
international students are: 24 hours a day, seven days a week
RESIDENTIAL COLLEGE
·· O
n-campus: available at Hawthorn ·· c ontents insurance for students
The Residential College provides fully
campus and hosts.
furnished, single, study bedrooms.
·· B
ackpacker hostels: low-budget Each room has a single bed with bedding, Read the full terms and conditions about
dormitory style a built-in desk with bookshelf, a sink homestay and online booking to choose
and vanity cupboard, electric kettle, this option: swinburne.edu.au/current-
·· 3
-star hotels: hotel-style with
desk lamp, telephone, broadband internet students/student-services-support/
shared bathroom
connection, ergonomic study chair accommodation/off-campus/homestay/
These options are suitable for your initial and visitor’s chair. There is central *Prices correct at time of printing
stay while you are arranging long-term heating in each bedroom and bed linen
accommodation. Normally, it takes up OFF-CAMPUS STUDENT
is provided.
to two weeks to arrange off-campus APARTMENTS
accommodation. SWINBURNE STUDENT APARTMENTS
These apartments are usually furnished
The apartments offer independent living and located near campuses.
Students should book their short-term
with security entrances and separately
accommodation as early as possible. For information visit: swinburne.edu.
keyed bedrooms. The apartments are
Visit swinburne.edu.au/current- au/current-students/student-services-
partly furnished with a single bed in
students/student-services-support/ support/accommodation/off-campus/
each bedroom; desk and ergonomic
accommodation/short-term-crisis/ student-accommodation/
chair; telephone and broadband internet
connection; kitchen with stove, oven, RENTAL ACCOMMODATION
fridge and electric kettle; gas heating; This means renting an apartment or
dining table and chairs; lounge with house. The majority of rental properties
chairs and coffee table; laundry unit with are unfurnished and require a 12-month
washing machine and dryer. tenancy agreement. This agreement
For more information about is a legal document which covers
on-campus accommodation, visit the rent and security bond amounts
swinburne.edu.au/stuserv/ and other conditions and rules.
accommodation/on-campus Swinburne Accommodation Adviser
can provide information, advice
and assistance to find affordable
and secure accommodation.
16The best place to find rental Find share accommodation using ACCOMMODATION HELP DESK
accommodation is online: the Swinburne Housing Database
swinburne.studystays.com.au The accommodation help desk is
domain.com.au
available all year.
realestateview.com.au If you wish to access this database
realestate.com.au prior to your enrolment please contact Swinburne International also offers
a housing officer at your campus. accommodation sessions to advise you
SHARE ACCOMMODATION
Housing officers will be able to assist on accommodation options and how
This is a popular option for students. to arrange them.
you with all matters relating to rental
It involves sharing a rented apartment
accommodation and your rights Sessions are held three times a year:
or house with other students. Most
and responsibilities when renting
rental properties include separate ·· January/February
a property.
bedrooms with shared bathroom, ·· June/July
kitchen and lounge. Housemates Note: Beware of fake ads and fake
landlords or internet classifieds. We ·· September/October.
normally share the rent and bills
between them. advise all students not to hand over Contact the Accommodation Adviser:
money or sign any kind of rental Email: accommodation@swin.edu.au
Before deciding on this type of
contract before physically sighting
accommodation, you should inspect Phone: +61 3 9221 5551
the property. If you are unsure, email
the property thoroughly. Check that For more information, visit
accommodation@swinburne.edu.au
everything in your own room works swinburne.edu.au/current-
(e.g. heater and electricity). Also be students/student-services-support/
clear about the terms of the agreement, accommodation/contact/
such as weekly rent, bond, bills,
facilities, etc.
Meet all your potential flatmates and
discuss your lifestyle with them to
make sure that you will be able to live
together happily.
It is recommended that you have
your name put on the lease (talk to
an international student Accommodation
Adviser or real estate agent about this).
You will also need to find out how many
weeks’ notice is required if you decide to
move out. Accommodation Advisers have
excellent knowledge of the tenancy laws
and can help protect you against problems
that may arise in share accommodation.
17LIFE IN MELBOURNE
Melbourne is the capital city of the state of Victoria which is located in Australia’s south-east.
Melbourne is considered to be one of the safest and most liveable cities in the world.
The city is home to many people and welcomes a diversity of cultures from all over the world.
Central Melbourne, also known as the STREET DIRECTORIES PUBLIC TRANSPORT
central business district (CBD), is situated
on the Yarra River and extends to Port There are a number of printed street Melbourne has an extensive public
Phillip Bay. It’s also known as the ’cultural directories available and many transport network known as Metro, made
and cosmopolitan’ city where you will Melburnians use the ‘Melway’. You’ll often up of three modes of transport – train,
find a little piece of home everywhere see a Melway page and grid reference in tram and bus. One ticket (myki) provides
you look, with its variety of restaurants, real estate and other advertisements. access to all modes of transport.
cafes, and markets. The Melway is a great source of The network spans Zones 1 and 2 of
information about Melbourne. It is metropolitan Melbourne, with Zone 1
GETTING AROUND
updated every year and is available being inner city, and Zone 2 the suburbs.
If you are lost or need help in Melbourne, for purchase from bookshops, service
Public transport is fairly reliable and
try asking one of the locals for assistance stations or newsagents for about $63*.
safe to use. Most stations and stops
or, in the centre of the city, look for the It provides street maps, public transport
display the relevant timetable.
Melbourne City Ambassadors dressed in networks and campus maps of
Services are reduced on weekends
red. People in Melbourne are generally universities in Victoria. The Melway
and public holidays.
friendly and happy to help you. also includes locations of places such
as tourist spots, public facilities, Timetables and travel guides are
To get to know the city and surrounds, available at train stations.
markets and places of worship.
take a ride on one of the free tourist
trams or buses. These services usually There are also online street directories, The Public Transport Victoria website
operate daily (check the websites for including: also provides timetable and fare
public holidays). street-directory.com.au information. Check out the Journey
Planner function where you can easily
For information about the City Circle whereis.com
find out the right mode of transport for
Tram, visit www.ptv.vic.gov.au/route/ google.com/maps
your trip.
view/1112 *Price correct at time of printing
The iUSEpass discounted annual ticket
For information about the is available for eligible international
Melbourne Visitor Shuttle, visit www. students. Please refer to page 4 of this
thatsmelbourne.com.au/visitors/ guide for more information including
transport/shuttle conditions and purchasing a pass.
For public transport information and
timetables, visit www.ptv.vic.gov.au
18TAXIS CYCLING DRIVING
All Melbourne taxis (cabs) are yellow. Melbourne is great for cycling: keep fit, VicRoads is the state government body
Taxi drivers must wear their company have fun, and cut your transport costs. for vehicle registrations and licences. It
uniform and display their photo Check the following websites for maps provides information services on roads,
identification at all times. of the on-road bike lanes and off-road traffic and road safety.
paths. You can ride a bike from the city
Taxis are often found at designated DRIVER’S LICENCE
to Hawthorn campus almost entirely on
ranks that are clearly signposted at If you are in Victoria on a temporary
off-road paths.
central locations. student visa you can drive on your
Cyclists must obey the road rules. This current, valid overseas driver’s licence.
Taxi fares can be quite expensive,
includes wearing an approved helmet, It must be in English, or accompanied by
depending on your journey. Late-night
having a warning device (e.g. a bell) on an English translation, and you must also
taxi trips from 10pm to 5am must be
the bike, and having reflectors and lights carry some form of photo identification.
paid for in advance.
if you are riding at night or when visibility
There are additional charges like a late- is low. Contact VicRoads if you wish to apply for
night surcharge from midnight to 5am, a Victorian Driver Licence.
Visit vicroads.vic.gov.au and click on
a fee for telephone bookings, using toll ROAD RULES
the Bicycles and Pedestrians icon for
roads, or a taxi from the airport rank.
road rules, cycling network maps and In Australia, we drive on the left side of
Melbourne’s major taxi companies include: information about cycling safely. the road. The driver and all passengers
·· Arrow 13 22 11 must wear seatbelts. In Victoria, speed is
Bicycle Network is also a great source
generally limited to 50km/h in built-up
·· Embassy Taxis 13 17 55 of information about cycling in Victoria
areas and 100km/h on freeways, unless
·· Silver Top 13 10 08 www.bicyclenetwork.com.au
signs show a different speed limit. Speed
·· Yellow Cabs 13 22 27 limits can be lower (e.g. 40km/h) in some
areas or at certain times (e.g. outside a
Wheelchair-accessible taxis are available
school, the speed limit may be lower at
from Silver Top and Yellow Cabs.
all times, or it may change at certain
times on school days).
It is essential that you learn Victoria’s road
rules if you plan to drive in Melbourne.
For road rules, VicRoads office
locations and other information,
visit vicroads.vic.gov.au
19LIFESTYLE AND LEISURE ACTIVITIES
FINDING THINGS TO DO INDEPENDENT STUDENT
ORGANISATIONS AND
Check the International Student Advisory
COMMUNITY GROUPS
& Support website for the latest information
about what’s on in Melbourne: International student organisations,
swinburne.edu.au/student/ whose members are mainly current or
international/events former international students, are
available to provide you with free
As well as on campus events advertised in information and advice. They hold
your student newsletter, ISA&S' Freetime events, activities and information
newsletter has social events and activities, sessions specially designed to make
to help you to get out and experience you feel welcome. Swinburne student
Melbourne's lifestyle. organisations, the Swinburne Student
Email freetime@swin.edu.au Life (SSL) and the Swinburne Student
Union (SSU) are included on the official
There are many other websites with
Victorian Government directory of
information about things do in the city
student advisory groups, along with
and around the state.
three independent international student
timeout.com/melbourne organisations: the Australian Federation
visitvictoria.com.au of International Students (AFIS), the
Council of International Students
MELBOURNE VISITOR CENTRE Australia (CISA) and the National Union
of Students (NUS).
FEDERATION SQUARE
Cnr Swanston and Flinders Streets swinburne.edu.au/current-students/
(opposite Flinders Street Station) life/student-organisations
Open daily, 9am to 6pm studymelbourne.vic.gov.au/help-and-
Closed Christmas Day support
CINEMAS
Melbourne has a huge range of
cinemas: from small art-house theatres
to large complexes showing the
latest blockbusters.
With your Swinburne ID card, you are
eligible to buy student concession
tickets at many cinemas. These cost
about $13. Discount tickets can also be
purchased from the campus bookshops.
Cheap tickets are also available at some
cinemas on Mondays, Tuesdays or
Thursdays. The cheap days vary
from cinema to cinema. Check a
newspaper for details.
20SHOPPING
Shopping is a favourite pastime
of Melburnians: from bargain shopping
at street markets and factory outlets
to the style and sophistication of various
shopping precincts. Lots of information
is available online.
visitmelbourne.com.au
visitvictoria.com.au
SUPERMARKETS
Supermarkets are a good place to buy
your basic necessities and are generally
easy to find. Most supermarkets will have
Queen Victoria Market BOUTIQUE SHOPPING
produce catering to different dietary
Cnr Elizabeth and Victoria Streets,
needs. Common supermarket chains are Visit Melbourne’s various shopping
Melbourne
Coles, Woolworths, Aldi and IGA. precincts for locally designed originals
qvm.com.au
Many supermarkets are open from 6am and the best of international brands.
until midnight every day except major South Melbourne Market
MELBOURNE CBD
public holidays. Cnr Cecil and Coventry Streets,
South Melbourne Browse through the Melbourne Central,
MARKETS Emporium, QV or GPO shopping malls,
southmelbournemarket.com.au
or simply wander down some of our
The various markets around Melbourne small laneways and arcades like Centre
FACTORY OUTLETS
are a fantastic source of fresh produce. Place or Cathedral Arcade, where some
Many of the markets also sell bargain Factory outlets sell sample, damaged and of the most unique and eclectic fashion
clothing, arts and crafts, souvenirs old stock and can be a great place to pick can be found.
and second-hand goods. up a bargain. Try Bridge Road in Richmond
or Smith Street in Collingwood for factory BRUNSWICK STREET, FITZROY
Visiting the markets is a great way to
outlets in amongst great cafés and other The bohemian heart of Melbourne,
experience multicultural Melbourne,
interesting shops. Or you can head out to where you can find groovy and
with produce, sights and sounds from
the Brand Smart Factory Mall in Nunawading alternative shops alongside great cafés
all over the world.
or the Direct Factory Outlet (DFO) in and bars.
Camberwell Fresh Food Market Moorabbin, Essendon or South Wharf for GREVILLE STREET, PRAHRAN
Burwood Road, Camberwell warehouses full of outlet stores.
camberwellfreshfoodmarket.com.au A cosmopolitan and quirky part of
DEPARTMENT STORES Melbourne where you can find retro
Camberwell Sunday Market clothing and streetwear near lounge
Station Street, Camberwell Melbourne has plenty of huge discount bars and nightclubs.
camberwellsundaymarket.org department stores such as Kmart,
Big W and Target, which are sensible EASTLAND SHOPPING CENTRE,
Centro Box Hill RINGWOOD
places to buy good value household
Whitehorse Road, Box Hill A shopping complex with over 230 stores
goods and appliances, basic clothing
boxhillcentral.com.au and underwear. Myer and David Jones and views to the Dandenong Ranges.
CERES Organic Food and Craft Market are also large department stores which CHADSTONE SHOPPING CENTRE,
Cnr Stewart and Roberts Streets, stock more designer labels and CHADSTONE
East Brunswick famous brands.
A huge shopping and entertainment
ceres.org.au/marketandshop complex about 15 km from the city,
Footscray Market Corner boasting over 400 stores.
Hopkins and Leeds Streets, Footscray
footscraymarketvictoria.com.au
Prahran Market
Commercial Road, Prahran
prahranmarket.com.au
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