Education System -
University
The university level of education is the highest level of education in Australia. A student can study either at the undergraduate level or the postgraduate level in a university. There are 41 universities in total – 38 public, government funded and three private universities.
Vocational
Vocational courses are offered by government funded TAFE (Technical and Further Education) institutes and also the private colleges. These institutions are closely linked with the industry so the courses are practical and skilled based.
School
It is compulsory for children aged between 6 and 15, with matriculation exams for university generally at 18 years old. Australian schools are public and private.
English Language Institutes
These courses are undertaken for study, travel, immigration or business purposes. There are about 100 private English language centres in Australia. Universities and TAFE institutes also offer English language courses.
Application / Admission Procedure -
Intakes: The main intake for all Australian Institutions is February. Every university opens admissions for all courses that they offer, for the February intake. There is also a Mid-year intake offered by some Australian Universities during July . It is important to keep in mind that, a university offering an intake in February might not necessarily offer all the courses that they have on list, during the mid year intake. Whether or not a University will offer a July intake can be found out on the university website , university brochures or from our career counselors.
Some universities also follow November – summer intake. It is available only for limited number of universities and limited courses.
Generally universities follow semester system and for some programs, they have trimester system.
Application Fees: Each university will have different application fees which could be waived during different events organized by our company. Events like Australia week and road show (on the spot) where students get an opportunity to meet university representatives personally.
Application Procedure: Each University specifies its application procedure / requirements. Generally one can apply for admissions in 2 ways:
1) By Corresponding with the University, i.e. sending an application with all relevant documents through post or filling up an online application form, and also through
2)Road show / On The Spot Interviews conducted by several visiting Universities: In this case, one is required to attend an interview conducted by university staff/ faculty, who will offer the student an on the spot decision, about whether or not he is eligible for admission.
Planet can help you apply to Universities in both the ways, where by all application, admission and correspondence services will be provided by us.
The following checklist will be helpful while applying to a university in the Australia :
* Application Form
* Resume / Bio-data
* Statement of Purpose
* Graduation Degree Certificate / Provisional Certificate (if applying for PG)
* T.T., S.Y., F.Y. Mark sheets
* Std 12 mark sheet
* Std 10 mark sheet
* 2 Recommendation letters (out of which at least 1 should be academic, with the other being from the work place, if student is working)
* Work experience letters (if applicable)
* IELTS / TOEFL scorecard (as proof of English proficiency
* Any other relevant certificates
* Portfolio of work must also be included, in case of application for courses in art / design etc.
Courtesy - Planet Education
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Transport in Aussie land
Transport : Australia has an extensive public transport system that includes trains, buses, tramways, ferries, two major national airlines and a number of regional airlines. Metropolitan areas are divided into zones and your ticket type and cost depends on which zone you are going to travel in and for how long. Tickets can be bought at train stations, on buses and trams and at news agencies.
Tourist students may drive in Australia on a valid overseas drivers license but if the document is not in the English language the visitor must carry a translation with the permit. An international driving license is not sufficient by itself.
Metered taxicabs operate in all major cities and towns. You will find taxi ranks at transport terminals, main hotels or shopping centers or you can hail taxis in the street. A light and sign on the roof indicates if a cab is vacant. There is a minimum charge on hiring and then a charge per kilometer travelled. Taxi drivers do not expect to be tipped.
Australian Culture
Culture : Australia is rich in the arts. There are eight professional orchestras and a national opera company. Within Australia there are more than 1000 museums preserving and displaying Australia's diverse cultural heritage.
Australian films are winning international acclaim and many Australian film directors, actors and technicians have been acclaimed in Hollywood at the highest level.
Australian authors have received international recognition particularly with the Booker Prize, won twice by Australians and with Patrick White winning the Nobel Prize for literature. Novelists, dramatists and poets are internationally accepted by their peers as having made a substantial contribution to world literature.
Australians traditionally have provided strong support for theatre, from regional amateur troupes to polished professional companies.
In music, Australia has developed a fertile environment that supports a great range of musical tastes ranging from the most avant-garde experimental to folk, from the youthful sounds of chart-busting pop to the unique music of the Aboriginal people.
Painting in Australia has a history that can not only be traced back over forty thousand years of Aboriginal culture but also is represented in the major museums and galleries of modern and avant-garde art, worldwide.
Sports and Recreation : Australians are very keen on sport and outdoor activities. Australia has more than 120 national sporting organizations and thousands of state, regional and club bodies. It is estimated that 6.5 million people, about a third of the population, are registered sports participants. While there are over 120 sporting organizations, Australians also take part in bushwalking, fishing, boating and water sports.
Australia has a world wide reputation for sports and outdoor activities. This is endorsed by the Olympic Committee's selection of Sydney to host the Olympic Games in the year 2000.
Australian films are winning international acclaim and many Australian film directors, actors and technicians have been acclaimed in Hollywood at the highest level.
Australian authors have received international recognition particularly with the Booker Prize, won twice by Australians and with Patrick White winning the Nobel Prize for literature. Novelists, dramatists and poets are internationally accepted by their peers as having made a substantial contribution to world literature.
Australians traditionally have provided strong support for theatre, from regional amateur troupes to polished professional companies.
In music, Australia has developed a fertile environment that supports a great range of musical tastes ranging from the most avant-garde experimental to folk, from the youthful sounds of chart-busting pop to the unique music of the Aboriginal people.
Painting in Australia has a history that can not only be traced back over forty thousand years of Aboriginal culture but also is represented in the major museums and galleries of modern and avant-garde art, worldwide.
Sports and Recreation : Australians are very keen on sport and outdoor activities. Australia has more than 120 national sporting organizations and thousands of state, regional and club bodies. It is estimated that 6.5 million people, about a third of the population, are registered sports participants. While there are over 120 sporting organizations, Australians also take part in bushwalking, fishing, boating and water sports.
Australia has a world wide reputation for sports and outdoor activities. This is endorsed by the Olympic Committee's selection of Sydney to host the Olympic Games in the year 2000.
Facts about Australia
Existence : 400 yrs
Area : 7,692,030 square kilometres
Population : 20,272,417
Main States : Sydney / Melbourne / Brisbane / Gold Coast
Industries : Dairy / Education
Climate : Nearly a third of Australia is in the tropics and the rest is in the temperate zone. The highlands and tablelands of Tasmania and the south eastern corner of the mainland are the coldest areas. Summer is from December to February; autumn from March to May; winter from June to August; and spring from September to November.
Multiculturalism : The British influence originating in Australia's colonial origins has evolved over two centuries into a dynamic multiculturalism with invaluable contributions from migrants from all parts of the world.
Almost a quarter of today's 18 million Australians were born in another country. There are nearly one million Asian-born Australians. About 2 per cent are of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent. More than 100 different ethnic groups are represented in Australia, making Australia one of the most ethnically diversified countries in the world.
Language : Although English is the official language; a host of other languages are spoken in Australia.
Religion : Australia is predominantly a Christian country; however, all religions are represented in the community. Devotees will find churches, mosques, temples and synagogues located in most major cities.
Area : 7,692,030 square kilometres
Population : 20,272,417
Main States : Sydney / Melbourne / Brisbane / Gold Coast
Industries : Dairy / Education
Climate : Nearly a third of Australia is in the tropics and the rest is in the temperate zone. The highlands and tablelands of Tasmania and the south eastern corner of the mainland are the coldest areas. Summer is from December to February; autumn from March to May; winter from June to August; and spring from September to November.
Multiculturalism : The British influence originating in Australia's colonial origins has evolved over two centuries into a dynamic multiculturalism with invaluable contributions from migrants from all parts of the world.
Almost a quarter of today's 18 million Australians were born in another country. There are nearly one million Asian-born Australians. About 2 per cent are of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent. More than 100 different ethnic groups are represented in Australia, making Australia one of the most ethnically diversified countries in the world.
Language : Although English is the official language; a host of other languages are spoken in Australia.
Religion : Australia is predominantly a Christian country; however, all religions are represented in the community. Devotees will find churches, mosques, temples and synagogues located in most major cities.
Monday, December 1, 2008
Weather Inforamtion for Brisbane
Indicative historical weather information - not a forecast
December/January/February - Summer
Mean temperature: 24.80 C
Max average temperature: 29.20 C
Min average temperature: 20.40 C
Precipitation: averages 150.4mm a month
Wind speed average: 10.9 km/h
March/April/May - Autumn
Mean temperature: 21.10 C
Max average temperature: 25.80 C
Min average temperature: 16.40 C
Precipitation: averages 102.3mm a month
Wind speed average: 9.2 km/h
June/July/August - Winter
Mean temperature: 15.60 C
Max average temperature: 21.20 C
Min average temperature: 10.10 C
Precipitation: averages 56.7mm a month
Wind speed average: 9.4 km/h
September/October/November Spring
Mean temperature: 20.80 C
Max average temperature: 260 C
Min average temperature: 15.60 C
Precipitation: averages 73mm a month
Wind speed average : 10.6 km/h
December/January/February - Summer
Mean temperature: 24.80 C
Max average temperature: 29.20 C
Min average temperature: 20.40 C
Precipitation: averages 150.4mm a month
Wind speed average: 10.9 km/h
March/April/May - Autumn
Mean temperature: 21.10 C
Max average temperature: 25.80 C
Min average temperature: 16.40 C
Precipitation: averages 102.3mm a month
Wind speed average: 9.2 km/h
June/July/August - Winter
Mean temperature: 15.60 C
Max average temperature: 21.20 C
Min average temperature: 10.10 C
Precipitation: averages 56.7mm a month
Wind speed average: 9.4 km/h
September/October/November Spring
Mean temperature: 20.80 C
Max average temperature: 260 C
Min average temperature: 15.60 C
Precipitation: averages 73mm a month
Wind speed average : 10.6 km/h
What to carry ? The shopping List
Shopping list
Dresses:
Jeans 10 Sets
T - Shirts (Half) 10 Sets
T - Shirts (Full) 5 Sets
Formal Wear 3 Sets
Suits like Raymonds 1 Set
Under Garments 10 Sets
Shorts 10 Sets
Formal Tie 2 Numbers
Belts 3 Numbers
Hangers 1 Dozen
Other Fittings:
Sweat Shirt (Full) 3 Sets
Thermal Wear 2 Sets
Woolen Sweater/Gloves 2 Sets
Woolen Caps 6 Numbers
Socks 1 Dozen
Shoe Polish 3 Numbers + 1 Brush
HandKerchief 1 Dozen
Formal Shoes 1 Pair
Sports Shoes 1 Pair
Foot wear - Normal 2 Pairs
Miscellaneous:
Bath Towels 3 Numbers
Small Towels 3 Numbers
Pillow Covers 2 Numbers
Bed Sheets 2 Numbers
Inflattable Pillow 1 Number
BackPack for College 2 Numbers
Umbrella 1 Number
Locks with Many Keys 2 Numbers
Keychains 3 Numbers
Torches 1 Number
Toilet Items:
1 Dozen Soaps 5 Deo Sprays or Less
3 Tooth Brushes 3 Tooth Pastes
3 Shampoos Coconut Oil
Shaving Cream Shaving Brushes
1 Dozen Blades/Cartriges Nail Cutter
Facial Cream/Powders Small Mirror/Lip Guard
Combs SunScreen Lotion
Room Freshner Detergents
Kitchen Items
3 Ceramic Plates 3 Tumblers/Glasses
1 Pressure Cooker Containers for Storing
3 Gaskets Knives
Forks and Spoons Non Stick Pan
Small Sized Utensils Cups/ Coffee Mugs
Pickles/Jams/Snacks Sambhar/Rasam Powder
Garam.Chole Masala Chillie Powder/Jeera
Dhaniya/Applaam/Papad Noodle Packets
Bowls
MEDICINES
Crocin Septran
Erythrocin Coldact/Coldarin
Disprin Avil
Baralgan 2 Rolls Bandage
1 Dozen Band - Aids Iodex/Amrutanjan
Benadryl Syrup Burn Ointments
Imp Documents
Educational Documents: Original and Xeroxs
Birth Certificate Community Certificate
Passport Indian Driving License
International Driving Permit 10th/12th/ UG/PG all Mark Sheets
IELTS International Certificates
Other ID cards Transfer Certificate
Course Completion Certificates Reference Books and Project Documentations
Visa Documents PVA Documents
Offer Letter 2 Dozen Passport size photos with Stamp sized also
Electronic Items/ Other Items (If Applicable)
Mobile Phone MP3 players/Radio
MP3 CD’s Batteries/ Chargers
Alarm Clock 2 Watches
Part Time Jobs
Part Time jobs:
Work in restaurants as a waiter or waitresses, as cleaners.
Drive taxi
Work as a security guard
Work as console operator in 7-11 or service stations
Work in a call centre
Work as a sales person
Work in cafes, bakery or other shops.
International students have 20 hours work limit.
One cannot work for more than 20 hours a week, if the work is legally paid for on the book. Most places accept students and pay them $10 to $13 an hour under the table, what I try to say is that international students usually get paid - Cash in Hand as its called out here. That means they are not enrolled as a staff member for that place. In doing so, this helps the employee to pay u a rate lower than what they should be paying. Eg they would pay u $10 while they should actually be paying u $15 or more. Many people do this, since this is manner of making more money and most employees know that international students are ready to anything and compromise on any price since they are desperate to get a job.
So if you are working for an employee that gives you cash in hand, u can work more than 20 hours.
Also when you get 3 months summer vacation you are allowed to work unlimited hours.
This is normally the time when most students try to work as hard as they can and recover as much as they can for university fees, etc.
Australian wages in 2007 have increased 3.4 percent compared with the same time last year.
Full-time adult earnings in
Overtime and bonuses bring the average Australian pay to A$58,027 per annum.
The average full-time male wage in
Next in the wages pecking order are finance and insurance workers who average A$71,300 per annum.
Manufacturing sector employees earn an average of $52,570 per annum and construction sector workers earn $53,000 per annum.
Full-time workers in the accommodation, restaurant and cafe sector earn A$43,660 on average.
The lowest wages are found in the retail sector, where full-time workers earn just A$42,700 on average.
Workers in the
Data provided by the Australian Bureau of Statistics - First Quarter 2007.
Friday, November 28, 2008
What is IELTS ??
IELTS is the International English Language Testing System. It measures ability to communicate in English across all four language skills – listening, reading, writing and speaking – for people who intend to study or work where English is the language of communication.
Since 1989, IELTS has been proven and trusted worldwide to provide a secure, global, authentic and customer-focused test which measures true to life ability to communicate in English. More than 6,000 education institutions, faculties, government agencies and professional organisations around the world recognise IELTS scores as a trusted and valid indicator of ability to communicate in English.
Over 1,000,000 people a year are now using IELTS to open doors throughout the English-speaking world and beyond. The test is taken every year across 120 countries, and is one of the fastest growing English language tests in the world, and sets the standard in integrity, research and innovation.
University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations (Cambridge ESOL) is the world's leading provider of exams for learners of English. Each year the exams are taken by around 1.5 million people, in 135 countries. Please contact ielts@ucles.org.uk for further information.
British Council connects people worldwide with the learning opportunities and creative ideas from the UK and builds lasting relationships between the UK and other countries. British Council is the UK's international organisation for educational opportunity and cultural relations and is represented in 109 countries worldwide. Please contact ielts@britishcouncil.org for further information.
IDP: IELTS Australia is Australia's international education organisation. It undertakes a broad range of activities from student advisory services and educational publications to project consultancy and English language teaching and testing. Please contact ielts@idp.com for further information.
Contact your nearest centre for enquiries concerning preparation courses and test dates.
Please send your Application Form to the centre at which you intend to take IELTS.
If you have a specific query about IELTS, you can use the form below. Please note that full information on IELTS is given on this website, and the form is for users who have read this material and have further questions.
- Are you looking for a test centre or test location?
- You may also find what you're looking for under Candidate Frequently Asked Questions.
- If the above links didn't help you can contact us by completing this form .
You can find information about the IELTS test and its content on the IELTS website:
- Candidates will find information about the test, test centre location, test dates and fees.
Candidates are also able to download Candidate Information Booklets, Application Forms and IELTS Specimen Materials Order forms from here .
Further enquiries about test dates, availability, registration, fees, application forms, preparation materials and Enquiries on Results should be sent directly to the test centre at which you wish to take the test or have already taken the test.
- Teachers and researchers will find statistical and analytical information about the test.
The IELTS Handbook, Annual Review, Research Report Order form and application forms for IELTS Research Projects are available for downloading here.
- The website lists all institutions and organisations that recognise IELTS.
The IELTS Band Score Requirements provides a sample of organisations recognising IELTS and their required Band Scores is available for downloading.
We are not able to provide information about educational institutions, immigration, professional or medical registration. You will need to contact the relevant institution or organisation.
- For all the latest news and announcements about IELTS please visit the Media Centre .
If your enquiry has not been answered by the information provided on the IELTS website or by contacting your local test centre, please contact us via this enquiry form .
Reference: Official website of IELTS: http://www.ielts.org/
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
How to go about studying abroad ? where to begin
which country would like to go ??? that is the first decision you have to make.. it is best to make choices between USA, UK and Australia. There are other countries like Germany, New Zealand, Singapore etc. are fast becoming the education hub. Your first step is to contact your nearest counsellor who would guide to study abroad.
Counsellor for UK - British Council (http://www.britishcouncil.org/India)
Counsellor for US - Planet education (http://www.planeteducation.info/home.php) and many other like chopras (http://www.britishcouncil.org/India), Edwise (http://www.edwiseinternational.com/)
Counsellor for Aus - IDP, planet education, chopras, Edwise
these consultant services will help you get the admission and also help through visa process..
Apart from these you will have to write an engish exam - qualifying exam to study abroad
UK, Australia - IELTS
US - GRE...
Counsellor for UK - British Council (http://www.britishcouncil.org/India)
Counsellor for US - Planet education (http://www.planeteducation.info/home.php) and many other like chopras (http://www.britishcouncil.org/India), Edwise (http://www.edwiseinternational.com/)
Counsellor for Aus - IDP, planet education, chopras, Edwise
these consultant services will help you get the admission and also help through visa process..
Apart from these you will have to write an engish exam - qualifying exam to study abroad
UK, Australia - IELTS
US - GRE...
Pre Departure briefing - II
* fees ...
guys make sure u ask ur parents send the semester fees as soon as u board..
u can either carry it with you or ask ur parents to send it directly to the " UQ account at ANZ bank "... if u pay the fees after the due date u will fined..
so all of u planning to send TT make sure u send the fees 2 weeks prior to the last date of fees submittion .... or even earlier as they take a long time to land into the account...
*utensils..
u can either carry it with you or ask ur parents to send it directly to the " UQ account at ANZ bank "... if u pay the fees after the due date u will fined..
so all of u planning to send TT make sure u send the fees 2 weeks prior to the last date of fees submittion .... or even earlier as they take a long time to land into the account...
*utensils..
this sounded funny 6 months back to me.. but i knw the importance of it now.. get either rice cooker/ pressure cooker.. it is very very useful... get kadai and few steel vessels in which u can heat milk or water .. in fully furnished houses u will get stuffs but in partially furnished houses u will get screwed!!!
apart from these u can manage with others.. if u are ardent eaters of chapathi / dosa dun forget the pan .. for cookers pls get extra whistles and safety valves if available ....
ppl who have decided to stay together till they finish their study can share the utensils among themselves.. each one of u need not get cookers..!!
these are silly stuffs but important once u land here ...
* check this website abt quarantine rules and wht u can/can't bring to australia..
http://www.daff.gov.au/aqis/travel/entering-australia/cant-take
read tht carefully as u need to knw wht is not allowed and wht u need to declare..
dunt try to hide stuff as they will come to knw...u dunt want a fine the moment u land here..unless u want some free publicity
dunt get spices as u get thm here in indian stores..try n include a few microwave safe containers and dishes..
-Tejas
*Laptops...
apart from these u can manage with others.. if u are ardent eaters of chapathi / dosa dun forget the pan .. for cookers pls get extra whistles and safety valves if available ....
ppl who have decided to stay together till they finish their study can share the utensils among themselves.. each one of u need not get cookers..!!
these are silly stuffs but important once u land here ...
* check this website abt quarantine rules and wht u can/can't bring to australia..
http://www.daff.gov.au/aqis/travel/ente
read tht carefully as u need to knw wht is not allowed and wht u need to declare..
dunt try to hide stuff as they will come to knw...u dunt want a fine the moment u land here..unless u want some free publicity
dunt get spices as u get thm here in indian stores..try n include a few microwave safe containers and dishes..
-Tejas
*Laptops...
There is no particular necessity in getting any type of laptop..
but see to it that u have all the drivers and the software cds with u, since anytime if by mistake ur laptop cracks, then u would surely need that.
Also, if u can get the windows installers then that would be also needed.
u dont need any specific softwares in here except for MS office and adobe reader. These are the only two things which u need in ur laptop (any course needing any specific software like for architecture or something would be handy).
and if anyone has not bought a laptop yet, dont worry u get students discount here for laptops and u get very cheap laptops here (since its the end of the financial year so the prices for the laptops have reduced a lot, dont know till when will sale will last)
njoy guys..... dont panic....brissy is very welcoming and friendly
- Akshay
*why shudn't u get drunk in flight? any specific reasons for tht?
In 2006 on my way back from India the bloke sitting next to me was drinking like there is no tomorrow and guess what, he was held up at Customs at Brisbane as he was drunk beyond limit. Customs actually put him aside so that other passengers can proceed with their custom clearance. So the bottomline is "drink, but don't get drunk".
Also as far as Laptop is concerned I found Dell the best. especially their after sale support is the best. They dont have a service center anywhere but once you log the call the technician comes to your place and replaces the part of the laptop without asking a question. One of my colleague had his laptop dropped and screen (17" WXGA 1920 / 1200) damaged and guess what. The dell guy came with Motherboard, video card and new screen and the laptop was back to normal in couple of hrs. The did not even ask a question as how the laptop was damaged etc as he had the warranty in place.
So if you are looking for a laptop buy here in Australia and buy Dell as there you can configure what you want and also they have the best after sales support.
- Samir
* pls do check in ur visa status online at https://www.ecom.immi.gov.au/inquiry/query/query.do?action=eVisa...
Put in ur passport number, date of birth and transaction reference number (TRN number) which u can find on ur electronic confirmation of admissions..
but see to it that u have all the drivers and the software cds with u, since anytime if by mistake ur laptop cracks, then u would surely need that.
Also, if u can get the windows installers then that would be also needed.
u dont need any specific softwares in here except for MS office and adobe reader. These are the only two things which u need in ur laptop (any course needing any specific software like for architecture or something would be handy).
and if anyone has not bought a laptop yet, dont worry u get students discount here for laptops and u get very cheap laptops here (since its the end of the financial year so the prices for the laptops have reduced a lot, dont know till when will sale will last)
njoy guys..... dont panic....brissy is very welcoming and friendly
- Akshay
*why shudn't u get drunk in flight? any specific reasons for tht?
In 2006 on my way back from India the bloke sitting next to me was drinking like there is no tomorrow and guess what, he was held up at Customs at Brisbane as he was drunk beyond limit. Customs actually put him aside so that other passengers can proceed with their custom clearance. So the bottomline is "drink, but don't get drunk".
Also as far as Laptop is concerned I found Dell the best. especially their after sale support is the best. They dont have a service center anywhere but once you log the call the technician comes to your place and replaces the part of the laptop without asking a question. One of my colleague had his laptop dropped and screen (17" WXGA 1920 / 1200) damaged and guess what. The dell guy came with Motherboard, video card and new screen and the laptop was back to normal in couple of hrs. The did not even ask a question as how the laptop was damaged etc as he had the warranty in place.
So if you are looking for a laptop buy here in Australia and buy Dell as there you can configure what you want and also they have the best after sales support.
- Samir
* pls do check in ur visa status online at https://www.ecom.immi.gov.au/inquiry/query/query.do?action=eVisa...
Put in ur passport number, date of birth and transaction reference number (TRN number) which u can find on ur electronic confirmation of admissions..
Temporary accomodation for people coming to brisbane
Yellow Submarine Backpackers
Type: Backpackers' hostel, share facilities
Cost: from $25/person (dorm), $58-60 / room (twin or double)
Distance to UQ: 10-min walk to bus stop + 20-min bus-ride (numbers 411, 412)
Website: www.yellowsubmarinebackpackers.com
Address: 66 Quay Street, Brisbane
Contact: Phone: +61 7 3211 3424 / Email: enquiries@yellowsubmarinebackpackers.com
Palace Central Backpackers
Type: Backpackers' hostel, share facilities
Cost: from $25/person (dorm) / from $45/room (single) / from $65/room (double)
Distance to UQ: 5-min walk to bus stop + 20-min bus-ride (numbers 411, 412)
Website: www.palacebackpackers.com.au
Address: corner of Ann and Edward Streets, Brisbane
Contact: Phone: + 61 7 3211 2433 / Fax: + 61 7 3211 2466 / Email: Brisbane@palacebackpackers.com.au
Palace Embassy
Type: Backpackers' hostel, share facilities
Cost: from $28/person (dorm) / from $75/room (double) / from $89/room (double with ensuite)
Distance to UQ: 5-min walk to bus stop + 20-min bus-ride (numbers 411, 412)
Website: www.palacebackpackers.com.au
Address: corner of Ann and Edward Streets, Brisbane
Contact: Phone: + 61 7 3002 5777 / Fax: + 61 7 3012 9929 / Email: Brisbane@palacebackpackers.com.au
Somewhere to Stay Backpackers
Type: Backpackers' hostel, share facilities
Cost: from $19/person (dorm) / from $39/room (single) / from $49/room (double) / from $69/room (double; ensuite)
Distance to UQ: 15-min walk to ferry + 25-min ferry-ride
Website: www.somewheretostay.com.au
Address: corner of Brighton and Franklin, West End
Contact: Phone: +61 7 1800 812 398 / Fax: + 61 7 3846 4584 / Email: reception@somewheretostay.com.au
Campus Living Villiage, Kelvin Grove
Type: Apartment complex. Own bedroom and share living, kitchen and bathroom facilities with up to five other students
Cost: $270 per week (one week min stay)
Distance to UQ: 15 min bus ride to Mater Hill Busway (number 66) then 10 minute bus ride to UQ (number 109)
Website: www.clv-kelvingrove.com.au
Address: 2 Blamey Street (cnr Victoria Park Road), Kelvin Grove
Contact: Phone: +61 7 3839 3733 / Fax: +61 2 9270 1601 / Email: info@clv-kelvingrove.com.au
Indooroopilly Lodge
Type: Motel, private bathroom/toilet
Cost: from $78/room/night (ensuite; sleeps 2; incl. breakfast) / from $462/room/week (ensuite; sleeps 2; incl. breakfast)
from $38/room/night (single; share facilities; incl. breakfast) / from $198/room/week (single; share facilities; incl. 7 breakfasts
and 5 dinners)
Distance to UQ: 5-min walk to bus strop + 20-min bus-ride (numbers 414, 427, 428, 432)
Website: www.iplylodge.com.au
Address: 21 Riverview Terrace, Indooroopilly
Contact: Phone: +61 7 3378 4000 / Fax: + 61 7 3378 4577 / Email: indlm@ozemail.com.au
Benson Court Motel
Type: Motel, private bathroom/toilet
Cost: from $100 per room for one person, $110 for two / Larger rooms for up to 6 people available
Distance to UQ: 2-min walk to bus stop + 10-min bus-ride (numbers 402, 411, 412)
Website: www.bensoncourt.com.au
Address: corner of Benson and MacDonnell Streets, Toowong
Contact: Phone: +61 7 1800 350 244 / Fax: +61 7 3870 3244 / Email: reservations@bensoncourt.com.au
Taringa Gardens Apartments
Type: Apartment-style, private bathroom/toilet
Cost: One bedroom apartment (sleeps 4) - $133/room/night for 1-14 days, $90 /room/night for 14 days +
Two bedroom, one bathroom (sleeps 4) - $142/room /night for 1-14 days, $115/room/night for 14 days +
Two bedroom, two bathroom (sleeps 6) - $170room/night for 1-14 days, $130/room/night for 14 days +
Distance to UQ: 5-min walk to bus stop + 10-min bus-ride (numbers 414, 428)
Website: www.taringagardens.com.au
Address: corner of Waverley and Moggill Roads, Taringa
Contact: Phone: +61 7 3878 5500 / Fax: +61 7 3878 5053 / Email: info@taringagardens.com.au
Central Cosmo Apartments
Type: Apartment-style, private bathroom/toilet
Cost: from $160/room/night Mon to Thurs and $210 room/night Fri-Sun (sleeps 2)
Distance to UQ: 15-min walk to bus stop + 15-min bus-ride (numbers 412, 411)
Website: www.centralapartmenthotels.com.au
Address: 60 Park Road, Milton (Coronation Drive End)
Contact: Phone: +61 7 3858 5999 / Fax: +61 7 3858 5988 / Email: cosmo@centralapartmenthotels.com.au
Central West End Apartments
Type: Apartment-style, private bathroom/toilet
Cost: from $126/room/night (sleeps 2)
Distance to UQ: 25-min walk to ferry + 3-min ferry-ride
Website: www.centralapartmenthotels.com.au
Address: Corner of Melbourne and Edmonstone Sts, West End
Contact: Phone: +61 7 3011 8333 / Fax: +61 7 3011 8399 / Email: westend@centralapartmenthotels.com.au
Type: Backpackers' hostel, share facilities
Cost: from $25/person (dorm), $58-60 / room (twin or double)
Distance to UQ: 10-min walk to bus stop + 20-min bus-ride (numbers 411, 412)
Website: www.yellowsubmarinebackpackers.com
Address: 66 Quay Street, Brisbane
Contact: Phone: +61 7 3211 3424 / Email: enquiries@yellowsubmarinebackpackers.com
Palace Central Backpackers
Type: Backpackers' hostel, share facilities
Cost: from $25/person (dorm) / from $45/room (single) / from $65/room (double)
Distance to UQ: 5-min walk to bus stop + 20-min bus-ride (numbers 411, 412)
Website: www.palacebackpackers.com.au
Address: corner of Ann and Edward Streets, Brisbane
Contact: Phone: + 61 7 3211 2433 / Fax: + 61 7 3211 2466 / Email: Brisbane@palacebackpackers.com.au
Palace Embassy
Type: Backpackers' hostel, share facilities
Cost: from $28/person (dorm) / from $75/room (double) / from $89/room (double with ensuite)
Distance to UQ: 5-min walk to bus stop + 20-min bus-ride (numbers 411, 412)
Website: www.palacebackpackers.com.au
Address: corner of Ann and Edward Streets, Brisbane
Contact: Phone: + 61 7 3002 5777 / Fax: + 61 7 3012 9929 / Email: Brisbane@palacebackpackers.com.au
Somewhere to Stay Backpackers
Type: Backpackers' hostel, share facilities
Cost: from $19/person (dorm) / from $39/room (single) / from $49/room (double) / from $69/room (double; ensuite)
Distance to UQ: 15-min walk to ferry + 25-min ferry-ride
Website: www.somewheretostay.com.au
Address: corner of Brighton and Franklin, West End
Contact: Phone: +61 7 1800 812 398 / Fax: + 61 7 3846 4584 / Email: reception@somewheretostay.com.au
Campus Living Villiage, Kelvin Grove
Type: Apartment complex. Own bedroom and share living, kitchen and bathroom facilities with up to five other students
Cost: $270 per week (one week min stay)
Distance to UQ: 15 min bus ride to Mater Hill Busway (number 66) then 10 minute bus ride to UQ (number 109)
Website: www.clv-kelvingrove.com.au
Address: 2 Blamey Street (cnr Victoria Park Road), Kelvin Grove
Contact: Phone: +61 7 3839 3733 / Fax: +61 2 9270 1601 / Email: info@clv-kelvingrove.com.au
Indooroopilly Lodge
Type: Motel, private bathroom/toilet
Cost: from $78/room/night (ensuite; sleeps 2; incl. breakfast) / from $462/room/week (ensuite; sleeps 2; incl. breakfast)
from $38/room/night (single; share facilities; incl. breakfast) / from $198/room/week (single; share facilities; incl. 7 breakfasts
and 5 dinners)
Distance to UQ: 5-min walk to bus strop + 20-min bus-ride (numbers 414, 427, 428, 432)
Website: www.iplylodge.com.au
Address: 21 Riverview Terrace, Indooroopilly
Contact: Phone: +61 7 3378 4000 / Fax: + 61 7 3378 4577 / Email: indlm@ozemail.com.au
Benson Court Motel
Type: Motel, private bathroom/toilet
Cost: from $100 per room for one person, $110 for two / Larger rooms for up to 6 people available
Distance to UQ: 2-min walk to bus stop + 10-min bus-ride (numbers 402, 411, 412)
Website: www.bensoncourt.com.au
Address: corner of Benson and MacDonnell Streets, Toowong
Contact: Phone: +61 7 1800 350 244 / Fax: +61 7 3870 3244 / Email: reservations@bensoncourt.com.au
Taringa Gardens Apartments
Type: Apartment-style, private bathroom/toilet
Cost: One bedroom apartment (sleeps 4) - $133/room/night for 1-14 days, $90 /room/night for 14 days +
Two bedroom, one bathroom (sleeps 4) - $142/room /night for 1-14 days, $115/room/night for 14 days +
Two bedroom, two bathroom (sleeps 6) - $170room/night for 1-14 days, $130/room/night for 14 days +
Distance to UQ: 5-min walk to bus stop + 10-min bus-ride (numbers 414, 428)
Website: www.taringagardens.com.au
Address: corner of Waverley and Moggill Roads, Taringa
Contact: Phone: +61 7 3878 5500 / Fax: +61 7 3878 5053 / Email: info@taringagardens.com.au
Central Cosmo Apartments
Type: Apartment-style, private bathroom/toilet
Cost: from $160/room/night Mon to Thurs and $210 room/night Fri-Sun (sleeps 2)
Distance to UQ: 15-min walk to bus stop + 15-min bus-ride (numbers 412, 411)
Website: www.centralapartmenthotels.com.au
Address: 60 Park Road, Milton (Coronation Drive End)
Contact: Phone: +61 7 3858 5999 / Fax: +61 7 3858 5988 / Email: cosmo@centralapartmenthotels.com.au
Central West End Apartments
Type: Apartment-style, private bathroom/toilet
Cost: from $126/room/night (sleeps 2)
Distance to UQ: 25-min walk to ferry + 3-min ferry-ride
Website: www.centralapartmenthotels.com.au
Address: Corner of Melbourne and Edmonstone Sts, West End
Contact: Phone: +61 7 3011 8333 / Fax: +61 7 3011 8399 / Email: westend@centralapartmenthotels.com.au
Pre Departure briefing - I
* hey guys just a suggestion ...
dun get text books or any books from india... it will not be of any help here ... dun get A4 size sheets... laptop is the only thing that can keep you alive here ...
if u can put ur hands on ebooks that would be great ...
* make sure u get just enough spices from india that would last for about 3-6 months...
there is a indian store here and you name it and u will get it ...
VEGETARIANS CAN STAY ALIVE .... THEY WILL NOT DIE STARVING...
*An international Debit card is not necessary but it would come handy if u have one... so make sure u get that from the bank u are getting ur loan sanctioned ...
once u run out of cash it might come handy .. it is not compulsory...
* And do not panic about part time jobs.. u will make it somehow...
all that is required is patience...
*If u compare the life in India esp bangalore and then land here .. it will be shocking initially...
I actually got sick and tired of clean roads, all the traffic obeying traffic rules, so much of discipline, no potholes.. and wrappers and stuff neatly in the dustbin...
Phew so much of tidiness can get on ones nerves initially ... now m used to it...
the whole of the first semester will pass by settling in brisbane.. so dun have to worry much...
*live your life to the fullest with friends and family .. u will miss all of it the most here ....
U will not get home sick... some might not all of them do... stick to friends.. u will not get terribly home sick... it is alright... initial days it does happen... later you will be able to manage...
U will not know how the first 6 months fly... it flies like a week... u wont knw...
Man i cant believe i am done with my first semester ...CHRIST is that the truth!! lol
so just be with ur family.. spend quality time with them and enjoy....
* as soon as u land here ...
from the local supermarket or the "KIRANA" like store u can buy one the following sim cards
THREE
OPTUS
VODAPHONE...
u can then buy a HELLO INDIA CARD which is worth 10$ and talktime worth 10$ and call india...
*@ people who cant stand cold...
dun get text books or any books from india... it will not be of any help here ... dun get A4 size sheets... laptop is the only thing that can keep you alive here ...
if u can put ur hands on ebooks that would be great ...
* make sure u get just enough spices from india that would last for about 3-6 months...
there is a indian store here and you name it and u will get it ...
VEGETARIANS CAN STAY ALIVE .... THEY WILL NOT DIE STARVING...
*An international Debit card is not necessary but it would come handy if u have one... so make sure u get that from the bank u are getting ur loan sanctioned ...
once u run out of cash it might come handy .. it is not compulsory...
* And do not panic about part time jobs.. u will make it somehow...
all that is required is patience...
*If u compare the life in India esp bangalore and then land here .. it will be shocking initially...
I actually got sick and tired of clean roads, all the traffic obeying traffic rules, so much of discipline, no potholes.. and wrappers and stuff neatly in the dustbin...
Phew so much of tidiness can get on ones nerves initially ... now m used to it...
the whole of the first semester will pass by settling in brisbane.. so dun have to worry much...
*live your life to the fullest with friends and family .. u will miss all of it the most here ....
U will not get home sick... some might not all of them do... stick to friends.. u will not get terribly home sick... it is alright... initial days it does happen... later you will be able to manage...
U will not know how the first 6 months fly... it flies like a week... u wont knw...
Man i cant believe i am done with my first semester ...CHRIST is that the truth!! lol
so just be with ur family.. spend quality time with them and enjoy....
* as soon as u land here ...
from the local supermarket or the "KIRANA" like store u can buy one the following sim cards
THREE
OPTUS
VODAPHONE...
u can then buy a HELLO INDIA CARD which is worth 10$ and talktime worth 10$ and call india...
*@ people who cant stand cold...
please get 2 pairs of thermal wear... waterproof jackets(rainy days as well as winter) ... it hardly rains but still it is handy... umbrella... and 3 blankets... its sounds funny but do get enough blankets to cover urself during the cold days..
*during take off ... in flight
*during take off ... in flight
some of us will get confused what to carry inside the cabin and what not to carry...
all ur jackets and cloaks... wear them... its k if u look bloated... wear the heavy clothes that u gonna carry... there should be nothing in ur pockets.. except phone and wallet...
no camera, no battery...
so put everything in the check in luggage.... not the cabin baggage...
in the cabin baggage u carry lotions and other liquids... each should not be more than 100ml... and your laptop and all the documents.. u never knw when u have to show it to ppl.... this itself will add up to 10kg..
in check in ... u can carry scissors, batteries, knives, and all the stuff which is allowed into aus...
http://www.daff.gov.au/aqis/travel/entering-australia/cant-take#australianquarantine
go thru the website.. follow it properly and u will not face any prob at check out at aus airport ...
*@ all
bring black shoes... so that u dun have to buy them here ...
ladies... black shoes... pure black... no stripes nothing... this is useful for jobs...
here they demand black stuffs... lol carry one black fullsleeves shirt and black half sleeves shirt tooo... and a pure black tailored formal pant... a must for both the gentlemen and the women...
*if u are not from IDP - bank details
all ur jackets and cloaks... wear them... its k if u look bloated... wear the heavy clothes that u gonna carry... there should be nothing in ur pockets.. except phone and wallet...
no camera, no battery...
so put everything in the check in luggage.... not the cabin baggage...
in the cabin baggage u carry lotions and other liquids... each should not be more than 100ml... and your laptop and all the documents.. u never knw when u have to show it to ppl.... this itself will add up to 10kg..
in check in ... u can carry scissors, batteries, knives, and all the stuff which is allowed into aus...
http://www.daff.gov.au/aqis/travel/ente
go thru the website.. follow it properly and u will not face any prob at check out at aus airport ...
*@ all
bring black shoes... so that u dun have to buy them here ...
ladies... black shoes... pure black... no stripes nothing... this is useful for jobs...
here they demand black stuffs... lol
carry one black fullsleeves shirt and black half sleeves shirt tooo... and a pure black tailored formal pant... a must for both the gentlemen and the women...*if u are not from IDP - bank details
write a mail to neeraj.chandra@commbank.co.in
and get your common wealth bank account opened right away... and donot transfer anything into the account... as u will carrying traveller cheque worth 2000$ or more u can deposit them there ...
Common wealth is better as there is a branch in the campus only (University of Queensland)...
* Regarding CBA account..
The normal stream line account charges you money for account keeping etc. But there is an alternative which is cheaper as well. Woolworth Ezy banking account is a ZERO BALANCE
1. You can withdraw and deposit at any any woolworth store.
2. 1 Point for every dollar spent at woolies.
3. Every transaction at CBA or any ATM will attract a $0.50 charge but at woolies it is free.
I personally used it for quite sometime and it is a good option.
* abt bank accounts...
stdents dunt hav account keeping fees...u can go to ur bank and show ur student id and u won't hav any account keeping fees for 1 yr...go in after a yr (if ur still a student) and it wud b done for another yr...
*BILLS ... account from Commonwealth bank and has no account keeping fee. But there are few fine prints which one need to read here.
and get your common wealth bank account opened right away... and donot transfer anything into the account... as u will carrying traveller cheque worth 2000$ or more u can deposit them there ...
Common wealth is better as there is a branch in the campus only (University of Queensland)...
* Regarding CBA account..
The normal stream line account charges you money for account keeping etc. But there is an alternative which is cheaper as well. Woolworth Ezy banking account is a ZERO BALANCE
1. You can withdraw and deposit at any any woolworth store.
2. 1 Point for every dollar spent at woolies.
3. Every transaction at CBA or any ATM will attract a $0.50 charge but at woolies it is free.
I personally used it for quite sometime and it is a good option.
* abt bank accounts...
stdents dunt hav account keeping fees...u can go to ur bank and show ur student id and u won't hav any account keeping fees for 1 yr...go in after a yr (if ur still a student) and it wud b done for another yr...
*BILLS ... account from Commonwealth bank and has no account keeping fee. But there are few fine prints which one need to read here.
please make sure you get the original bills of all the electronic equipments you are carrying with you.. at the airport you may be asked to produce them... not necessary but they might ask... so on the safer hand carry them with you... 
*Travellers Cheque
*Travellers Cheque
Carry TCs of some 3-4K which will last good for 2-3 months at least. Once here you can deposit them in your bank account. There is a commonwealth bank account in the campus where you can open your account even when u r there.. see the previous msg for the same.
* part time jobs ....
criteria for part time job ...
a) ready to clean anything and everything
b) ready to work in a bar
c) ready to travel any corner of brisbane
d) ready to take less salary
e) smart
f) ready to work under any conditions... any TIME - day/ night
g) ready to be a kitchen hand
if u have the above qualities u get the job... there is plenty of jobs here ... plenty of them... most of them dun get it because have problem with stuffs.... it is actually stupid of one to say there is no part time job when one is ready to work under the above mentioned criterias....
and one more important thing... if u are not patient i can bet u a 100$ u will not get the job... u need to patiently wait.. and apply to all possible vacancies.. if u sit idle and do nothing abt it... then u will surely not get them ....
* classes depend on the electives that you would choose..
it could range from an hour to two...
labs could take longer... it would take up the whole day sometimes..
the classes are conducted more as seminars back in india... the lectures are delivered with the help of power point presentations.
Nothing is terribly different .. it is very comfortable and adaptable.. so u dun have to worry... depending on the elective chosen u could be evaluated either with assignments or posters or examinations...
prepared to read more of research papers and less text books..
*phone..
* part time jobs ....
criteria for part time job ...
a) ready to clean anything and everything
b) ready to work in a bar
c) ready to travel any corner of brisbane
d) ready to take less salary
e) smart
f) ready to work under any conditions... any TIME - day/ night
g) ready to be a kitchen hand
if u have the above qualities u get the job... there is plenty of jobs here ... plenty of them... most of them dun get it because have problem with stuffs.... it is actually stupid of one to say there is no part time job when one is ready to work under the above mentioned criterias....
and one more important thing... if u are not patient i can bet u a 100$ u will not get the job... u need to patiently wait.. and apply to all possible vacancies.. if u sit idle and do nothing abt it... then u will surely not get them ....
* classes depend on the electives that you would choose..
it could range from an hour to two...
labs could take longer... it would take up the whole day sometimes..
the classes are conducted more as seminars back in india... the lectures are delivered with the help of power point presentations.
Nothing is terribly different .. it is very comfortable and adaptable.. so u dun have to worry... depending on the elective chosen u could be evaluated either with assignments or posters or examinations...
prepared to read more of research papers and less text books..
*phone..
errr guys...
plz make sure that you donot recharge your phone from india... if do want to recharge then u can catch up with MATRIX and get a sim card from MATRIX.. those will work here in aus.. and u can get in touch with parents as soon as u land..
their website is : http://www.matrix.in/
those with IDP should know abt the same...
if u are buying a phone make sure it is a 3 band phone.. except NOKIA 1100, 1108
everything else should work here in aus...
*transit..
plz make sure that you donot recharge your phone from india... if do want to recharge then u can catch up with MATRIX and get a sim card from MATRIX.. those will work here in aus.. and u can get in touch with parents as soon as u land..
their website is : http://www.matrix.in/
those with IDP should know abt the same...
if u are buying a phone make sure it is a 3 band phone.. except NOKIA 1100, 1108
everything else should work here in aus...
*transit..
as u knw there is no direct flight to brisbane..
it is better u carry some currency of the country that u will be landing in for transit...
eg: singapore airlines will take off from india and land at singapore airport and u have to wait for min 3-5 hrs at singapore before u catch the next flight to brisbane..
if u want to call home u will need singapore dollars so do carry some of the same (for 500Rs) should be fine...
u can do the same for any other transit place be it malaysia or bangkok.. as u might want to eat or buy some things in duty free shops during the free time...
*flight...
it is better u carry some currency of the country that u will be landing in for transit...
eg: singapore airlines will take off from india and land at singapore airport and u have to wait for min 3-5 hrs at singapore before u catch the next flight to brisbane..
if u want to call home u will need singapore dollars so do carry some of the same (for 500Rs) should be fine...
u can do the same for any other transit place be it malaysia or bangkok.. as u might want to eat or buy some things in duty free shops during the free time...
*flight...
A personal opinion.. though costly singapore airlines is the best ... those who are vegetarians pls make sure u book a vegetarian indian meal when u book your ticket... pls make them clear of what u want to eat when u book the ticket itself...
i have heard that food might be a problem for some ( not all ) people in flights...
after coming here u might loose your luggage because of transit issues... there is a possibility that u board right flight but ur baggage boards the wrong one... do not panic.. u will get them in a day or too.. pls do carry some clothes in the cabin luggage for the same reason..
It would be advisable if u book the flights that land here in the morning ... so that it wont be difficult for u to move to ur destinations...
i have heard that food might be a problem for some ( not all ) people in flights...
after coming here u might loose your luggage because of transit issues... there is a possibility that u board right flight but ur baggage boards the wrong one... do not panic.. u will get them in a day or too.. pls do carry some clothes in the cabin luggage for the same reason..
It would be advisable if u book the flights that land here in the morning ... so that it wont be difficult for u to move to ur destinations...
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