Getting the most out of your Australian study experience
Being away from home as an international student can be challenging for a young person. But it will also be one of the most exciting times, too.
As we’re approaching the beginning of 2023, we have gathered some useful information to help students settle in at Canning College here in Perth, Western Australia.
No matter who you are, where you are from, whether you’re a new student or are continuing with us, we’ve got you covered!
FIVE things to prepare before leaving your home country –
- Book your flight
- Organise your accommodation
- Make a list and start packing
- Have a browse about Perth, Western Australia
- Embrace and enjoy your Australian study experience
1. Book your flight
Perth is a popular summer destination and with international students returning to Western Australia’s sunniest state it is very important that you have booked your flight in advance. It is best not to leave it until the last minute to lock in your flight.
Keep in mind that you might need some extra time to settle into a new place before you start with us. It is worth considering a flight that arrives a few days before the start of your study period.
Make sure you have these documents before you book your flight –
- Passport – You must have a valid passport for at least 6 months prior to your arrival in Australia. Print a couple of hard copies of the information page in your passport in case of an emergency.
- Visa – You must have a valid visa for entering and studying in Australia. Have your visa documentation and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) ready before you fly.
- Proof of vaccination – From 6 July 2022, you are no longer required to show proof of your COVID-19 vaccination for travel to Australia. However, we encourage all travellers to be vaccinated for their own protection. You might want to check the requirements of your airline and any countries that you are transiting through as they may have vaccination requirements.
Please note that masks are still required for international flights to Australia.
Let Canning College know your arrival time in Perth and we can arrange a free pick-up service from the airport to your accommodation.
2. Organise your accommodation
Finding the right accommodation can be tricky, which makes it important to make this a priority. Do your accommodation research properly and confirm your booking as soon as possible.
Things to consider when choosing accommodation:
- Location – Think about the distance from your accommodation to college and check on the transportation options here: Transperth. Also keep an eye out for local shops along the road like supermarkets, restaurants and pharmacy.
- Price – Know your budget and always confirm the total cost and any other expenses you may be required to pay, such as a bond and utility fees (water, electricity etc) and ensure they are included in your accommodation agreement.
- House rules and agreements – You are legally obliged to keep your place clean and pay your rent on time. You also have the legal right to feel secure in your property, and to live in accommodation that is well maintained. Make sure you are aware of any rules and agreements before you signed the contract.
On-campus accommodation is available at Unilodge Vickery House and nearby at St Catherine’s College Curtin.
Find out more: Student Accommodation and University Housing Perth | UniLodge Perth
You can also access other accommodation options, including private rentals and shared living.
If you are under the age of 18, and you will not be staying with a family member, you must stay with a homestay host under the Australian Homestay Network (AHN).
Once you have confirmed your accommodation, make note (address and contact number) of where you will be staying and let your family know. You are also required to inform Canning College as your education provider of your residential address and keep us updated if you have moved or changed contact details.
3. Make a list and start packing
Pack your things slowly to make sure you do not miss a thing. Imagine if you forgot to bring your power plug adapter for your electronic devices to be used in Australia? You will be able to buy a new one here in Perth, but you could have saved your time and money if you had your packing list prepared.
Here are some guidelines to help you work on your packing list –
- Important documents – Gather all your documents in one safe place and have a copy of each packed somewhere else in your luggage. Even better to leave an extra copy at home with your family in case of emergency.
- Essential items – Bring with you all the basic things that you need at least for the first week of your arrival. Check with your accommodation whether you’ll have to bring your own stuff like bed sheets, towels, toiletry, cutlery, etc. Cards and electronic banking are widely used but it’s a good idea to have some Australian currency, just in case.
- Personal belongings – You might want to bring along your favourite things like most-loved jeans, comfy shoes, favourite pyjamas and items you don’t want to leave behind. Depending on when you arrive, you might need to pack something warm for the cooler autumn and winter months.
While working on your packing list, please check the Australian customs and biosecurity regulations here: Australian Customs and Biosecurity FAQs – Tourism Australia. There are some prohibited goods that you must declare when entering Australia. The penalties for breaches of rules can be very severe.
One general rule is that if you are in doubt, it is better to declare the goods. These restrictions relate to food, herbal medicines, weapons, products from endangered and protected animals plus many other items. Also note that not only are passengers and their baggage checked but also parcels sent by mail from overseas. Your family needs to know what can and cannot be sent to you. Find out more about what you can bring into Australia (abf.gov.au).
4. Browse Perth, Western Australia
Have a look at the city of Perth, Western Australia. Searching online is a great way to help you get a better understanding of the city, the people, their lifestyle, the weather and the food. Visit the StudyPerth website here: www.studyperth.com.au to find out more about international study in Perth. You can visit www.destinationperth.com.au to see what activities are taking place in Perth.
Don’t forget to visit our website www.canningcollege.wa.edu.au to familiarise yourself with your soon-to-be second home. Follow our social media on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube channel (@canningcollege) to stay updated.
5. Embrace your Australian study experience
Once you have arrived in Perth and have completed settling into your new accommodation and surrounds, let the adventure begin. Remember that you are not alone. Aside from the friends you will make at Canning College, there are thousands of international students in Perth and the locals are extremely welcoming, too.
As our office is open for most of the school holidays, you can even come in to see us at the College before orientation. Once you know how to get here it will make it very easy to find us on your first official day.
Welcome to the Canning College family. We’re sure you’ll have a wonderful journey ahead.
