More than 400,000 international students were enrolled at an Australian education institution in 2007. When you graduate, your qualification will be recognized by international employers and leading education institutions around the world.

This is because all Australian education qualifications are included under one national system – Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). The AQF links school, vocational and university qualifications, making it easier to progress to the next AQF level anywhere in Australia.

The AQF also makes it easy for overseas governments to recognise your qualification. When international employers see it, they know what it stands for: a world class education in a modern, democratic and technologically advanced society.

Australia even has a system to recognise your qualifications from other countries. The Australian Government organisation, National Office of Overseas Skills Recognition (NOOSR) helps Australian institutions to recognise qualifications from overseas, allowing for recognition of your previous studies.

Why Study in Australia

In Australia, you have the freedom to choose a path that suits your particular goals. There are thousands of courses on offer.

Whichever course you choose, you’ll experience a unique kind of education. Studying in Australia promotes innovative, creative and independent thinking. You’ll learn to work as part of a team, to communicate effectively with others and to develop the practical skills and intellectual abilities you need for global success.

Most importantly, you’ll learn how to use your initiative. Your teachers will encourage you to think of original, practical solutions to real-world problems. Upon graduation, your qualification will make you highly sought after by Australian and international employers.

The Australian education system has a strong international reputation and is known for its effective structure and innovative policy developments. Many other countries, eager to improve their own education systems, turn to Australia for advice.

Australia is also one of the best places to live. It is a young, vibrant and friendly country in which students can live, learn and grow. So if you want a quality education and a good lifestyle, Australia’s the place to be.

Study Costs

There is no doubt that Australia is the perfect place to enjoy a quality education and outstanding quality of life. What makes it even better is that Australia offers excellent value for money, with living expenses and tuition costs comparable to the United Kingdom and Unites States.

Australians enjoy one of the highest standards of living in the world – without the expensive price tag. An average international student in Australia will spend about A$360 a week on accommodation, food, clothing, entertainment, transport and telephone. Remember, though, that this figure depends on your location, lifestyle and even your course. You should seek further information on living costs from your institution.

Part Time Work

You are entitled to receive at least the basic rate of pay (minimum wage) that applies to your age and job classification. Some employers will pay you at a rate above the basic rate.

You should also note the following:

• Your employer must pay you the correct rate of pay for all the hours you attend work;
• They must pay you on a regular basis – casual and part-time workers are often paid either weekly or every two weeks for work they have already undertaken. That is, you are paid in arrears, not in advance;
• You shouldn’t have money taken out of your pay to cover things like a customer leaving without paying;
• You should be paid for ‘trial work’;
• If you work on a public holiday, you may be entitled to be paid more for that day. You might also get a higher rate of pay if you work on the weekends.