Australia is a dynamic and multicultural country that offers excellent education experience in a safe and friendly environment. In the English-speaking world, Australia follows the USA and UK in attracting international students.

With 39 universities and numerous secondary schools spread around seven states and one territory, the choice is endless. Moreover, living standards and tuition fee in Australian universities are generally less expensive than in the USA and UK. Studying in Australia means great value for money and enjoying high living standards. Many students from Asian countries also choose to study in Australia because it’s geographically close to their country.

“I have a passion for culinary arts. One of Australia’s universities offer a culinary course and it’s near my country, so that is very convenient!” – Sapto, Sydney (from Indonesia)

Experience Australia!

Just a little smaller than the USA, Australia is the sixth largest country after Russia, Canada, China, USA, and Brazil. However it is mostly an empty country, with a population of only just over 21 million. Just compare the population density of Japan with 336 persons per km2 or the United Kingdom's with 244 persons per km2, to Australia with only 2.5 persons per km2 ! Most Australians live in the coastal areas, leaving a vast amount of empty space which Australians call the `Outback`.

Migrants

The country is home to migrants from over 190 countries. At least one in five Australians was born overseas. Cultural diversity is part of the national identity and is one of Australia's greatest strengths. You may be surprised how easy it is to find stuff (including food!) from your country.

Culture: `no worries`
 

Australia’s culture was originally influenced by a mix of western cultures, especially British and European. Democracy and individual rights are highly valued like freedom of speech and equality between man and women. Being a young country, Australia is still searching for its own identity. Typical Australian features like `Mate ship`(stand firm for your friends) and `the opportunity to have a go`(equal opportunities for everyone, young old, rich or poor), are highly regarded. Although most Australians work hard, the atmosphere in the country appears to be relaxed and you will hear the phrases `no worries` and `cheers mate` a lot. (more on culture at: www.acn.net.au/articles/luckycountry“`No worries, no worries mate, I heard it all the time. For example when dealing with broken down internet providers, or cancelled travel arrangements. It drove me mad because for me all those matters were a `real worry` and at the time those service providers most certainly did not feel like `mates`!” student in Victoria.
Recently cultural influences from Asian countries nearby have become more prominent. Melbourne has a Mayor of Chinese descent, All big cities have a large China town and often `Vietnamese streets or Indian neighborhoods. Visiting those areas will make Asians feel more at home in a overall Western oriented culture. For more info on Aussie culture visit Tips: Link

Values

After a while you may notice differences in etiquette, lifestyles and values to what you are used to. By nature, Australians are polite and informal. At schools teachers expect you to discuss topics with them and not automatically agree with what is being said. This can take some adjustment, especially if you are accustomed to a culture where rituals are important, where status is carefully respected and where authority must not be openly opposed. Remember to learn to speak up in class when you don’t understand something or when you don’t agree with somebody, even if that somebody is the teacher! [see study tips]
 

Food and drink

Living well in Australia means having a regular Barbeque or BBQ party. Traditionally men roast the meat, holding a stubby of beer in one hand and a long fork in the other. Australians love a good Beer or a smooth glass of wine. Since the late eighties, wine has grown in popularity. Not surprising considering the fantastic quality of Australian drops. Beautiful wine regions include: Barossa valley in Southern Australia, The Yarra valley in Victoria and the Hunter valley in New South Wales.See also: [Living]

Sport

Australians love sports, as it is considered an important aspect of national culture and often part of everyday life. Man and women visit popular sports like Australian Rules Football or `Footy` in most states and Rugby League in other states. Cricket is the national summer sport, while cycling, surfing, swimming and soccer are popular recreational sports.

“When I arrived in Melbourne (Victoria), I immediately fell in love with the exciting events, the great sports venues, the food and how nice people are” – Arini, Melbourne