2010

BE WHAT YOU WANT TO BE

ROCKHAMPTON INTERNATIONAL STUDENT GUIDE STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS LIVING IN ROCKHAMPTON

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION ABOUT LIVING AND STUDYING IN ROCKHAMPTON Rockhampton – the City

Climate Entertainment, sport and recreation Shopping

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ABOUT CQUniversity Australia 04

ACCOMMODATIONOn-campus living – Capricornia CollegeOff-campus living – UnilodgeOff-campus independent living

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TELEPHONE AND POSTAL SERVICES 08

HEALTH SERVICESOverseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)How to make an OSHC claim Extra Private Health Insurance

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MONEY AND BANKINGAustralian Currency Banking

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RELIGIOUS AND SPIRITUAL INFORMATION CQUniversity Inter-Faith Sacred Garden

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TRANSPORT Public transport Private transport Buying a car Driving in Queensland

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EMPLOYMENTHow to apply for permission to work How to apply for a Tax File Number

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STUDENT VISA COMPLIANCE CONDITIONSPayment of academic tuition fees EnrolmentSatisfactory academic progressionChange of provider The ‘two fails in a course’ ruleDeferral of studies Change of address Reporting to DIAC

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Contents

Bring this international student guide with you. It contains contact details of many organisations that will help you during your time in Australia.

GRIEVANCE PROCEDURESStudent Ombudsman (Building 37 level 1 room 1.08) CQUniversity Student Association (Building 65) Independent Dispute Resolution Services

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STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICESInternational Student Support Officer (Building 31) Orientation Academic study support Library Information Services (Building 10) ITD Media Services (Building 32)Mathematics Learning Centre (Building 32) Information Technology (Building 19) Student Support Centre (Building 31)

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PREPARING FOR YOUR DEPARTURE TO AUSTRALIABringing your family to Australia Schooling/Child Care for dependent children

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WHAT TO BRING Clothing Other items What not to bring

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TRAVEL CHECKLISTHelpful telephone numbers

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ARRIVING IN AUSTRALIAA week before you leave… When to arrive Arriving at Brisbane International Airport Adjusting to a new environment

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OUR CONTACT DETAILS 25

CQUniversity’s programs are offered to international students in accordance with the Australian Government Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000. Further details are available at: www.international.cqu.edu.au

CRICOS Provider Codes QLD 00219C; NSW 01315F; VIC 01624D

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This guide has been designed to provide you with essential information about living and studying in Rockhampton. While this guide covers many things, there will be aspects of Australian life and University life, which can only be learnt through your experience of living and studying here. When you arrive we will provide more comprehensive information about the campus and the wider community during your special Orientation Program. You will meet staff from the Student Support Centre and your Faculty who look forward to welcoming you to CQUniversity and assisting you to settle in.

We look forward to helping to make your time at CQUniversity as rewarding as possible. We hope that you will enjoy life at CQUniversity both academically and socially.

ROCKHAMPTON – THE CITY Rockhampton, situated on the Tropic of Capricorn in Central Queensland, is a fantastic destination. There are a multitude of things to see and do in the diverse Capricorn region. The real treasures of the Capricorn region are the friendly people, the genuine country hospitality and laid back lifestyle where there is always time to say g’day. Affectionately known as Rocky, our progressive regional city

is just 30 minutes drive inland from the Pacific Ocean with safe sandy beaches and beautiful islands dotted along the Capricorn Coast. Rockhampton is situated on Queensland’s largest river, the Fitzroy. The Central Queensland district has a population in excess of 150 000 and Rockhampton City a population of 60 000.

Essential Information About Living and Studying in Rockhampton

CLIMATEThe city experiences nine months of fine weather with cooler nights from April to October. During the summer months from December to February the average daily temperature is 34 degrees Celsius.

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If you or your family have any questions, please contact us at:CQUniversity RockhamptonStudent Contact CentreBuilding 5Rockhampton Qld 4702Australia Telephone: + 61 7 4923 2420 Fax: + 61 7 4923 2100 Email: international-enquiries@cqu.edu.au Website: www.cquni.edu.au

ENTERTAINMENT, SPORT AND RECREATIONThe region’s climate supports an outdoor lifestyle all year round. A full range of social, sporting and recreation activities are available for your enjoyment. Rockhampton has a variety of entertainment venues including cinemas, local and interstate theatrical productions, nightclubs, an excellent range of restaurants/coffee shops and is home to the tropical Botanical Gardens on the southside of Rockhampton and the Kershaw Gardens on the northside.

SHOPPINGExcellent shopping and banking facilities are available in the city centre and at modern suburban shopping centres. The Northside has the Stockland complex which is the largest shopping centre in Rockhampton. There are a variety of food and grocery shops plus a tavern located close by the university on Farm Street and a speciality shop located in Richardson Road. This shop specialises in Asian foods and condiments.

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About CQUniversity

CQUniversity is one of Australia’s top-rated and most sought-after universities. Almost half of its 20 000 students are ‘international’, representing over 100 countries at CQUniversity campuses in the heart of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Headquartered in Rockhampton, Queensland with regional campuses throughout the state.

Students succeed because of the five-star quality and relevancy of teaching, learning, research, community programs and services. CQUniversity’s personalised learning support, collaborative partnerships and dedicated staff provide pathways for people anywhere, with different learning styles to achieve, thrive and succeed. In fact, our students rank 10% higher than the national average.

CQUniversity Rockhampton is set on spacious grounds within a 150-hectare site. The university reflects multicultural Australia by warmly welcoming its international students and recognising the invaluable contribution these students make to the campus life and the community.

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Accommodation

On your arrival, staff from the Student Support Centre offer a limited free service to assist you to locate accommodation. To assist in this regard if you have rented previously please bring references with you. As part of your enrolment information you will received an Arrival Details form which can also be downloaded from the student forms area on the website. This needs to be completed and faxed to +61 7 4930 9366 or email to ssc@cqu.edu.au as soon as you have made your travel arrangements.

After your arrival staff from local real estate agencies can provide information about suitable permanent accommodation.

ON-CAMPUS LIVING – CAPRICORNIA COLLEGE We recommend you stay on-campus at the University’s Residential College, Capricornia College. Capricornia College is so much more than just a place to stay. Living at Capricornia College will better ensure you have the full university experience.

The College provides a safe, secure, comfortable and supportive environment located a short walking distance to lectures, library and sporting facilities. You will be welcomed into an academic residential community of 350 undergraduate and postgraduate students from different places in Australia and other parts of the world. While it is expected college members will have a serious commitment to their academic program there will be many opportunities for social and sporting activities. You will have your own study/bedroom supplied with desk, chair, built-in wardrobe, fan, bookcase and curtains. Each residential building has its own shared toilet/bathroom facilities, laundry and small kitchenette. The majority of meals are cafeteria-style (vegetarian meals are available) but more formal college, house and special dinners are held on a very regular basis. Put simply, college life is great!

For more information and application details please contact: Capricornia College CQUniversityBruce HighwayNorth Rockhampton Qld 4702AUSTRALIA Telephone: + 61 7 4930 9766 Fax: + 61 7 4930 6581 Email: capcollege-enquiries@ cqu.edu.au Website: www.college.cqu.edu.au

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OFF-CAMPUS LIVING – UNILODGE The Unilodge Rockhampton complex is set in landscaped gardens and consists of 26 three (3) bedroom and 42 two (2) bedroom self-catered townhouses.

Each townhouse has living and kitchen areas with residents making their own arrangements concerning cost and preparation of meals. It is situated a considerable distance from the university (approximately seven kilometres) and is serviced by hourly bus transport to the university during weekdays. The last weekday bus service from the university to the Unilodge complex is at 6 pm. There is no evening or weekend bus transport from Unilodge. All units are air conditioned with quality fittings and furniture throughout.

Outdoor sporting facilities as well as computer laboratory with Internet access are available.

OFF-CAMPUS INDEPENDENT LIVINGIf you prefer to rent a house or unit with other students, this option is available to you and allows you to choose who you will share with. It takes considerable time to inspect houses and units and make arrangements regarding your accommodation. Therefore it is important you arrive in Rockhampton at least one week prior to the commencement of your orientation program.

Other ways to obtain independent accommodation after your arrival in Rockhampton are:

• read university notice boards

• check the Student Association accommodation database

• check the ‘Accommodation to Let’ section in Saturday’s edition of the local newspaper, The Morning Bulletin

The approximate cost of the most common type of furnished accommodation close to the university is either

(i) AUD$120/AUD$150 per person per week occupying three/four/five bedroom houses or

(ii) AUD$100/AUD$130 per person per week occupying one/two bedroom flats/units. A bond fee applies which needs to be paid at the time of signing the lease. This usually costs about four times the weekly rental.

Unilodge370 Rockonia Road North Rockhampton Qld 4702AUSTRALIA Telephone: + 61 7 4928 0560 Fax: + 61 7 4928 9772 Email: info@unilodge.net Website: www.unilodge.net

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In addition to weekly rental, each tenant shares the cost of electricity, gas and telephone services. Each tenant has his/her own private bedroom, sharing bathroom, kitchen and communal living areas. It is not possible to arrange this type of accommodation until after your arrival in Rockhampton, as you must inspect the accommodation personally prior to signing a tenancy agreement.Tenancy agreements are usually for a fixed amount of time (such as 6 or 12 months). This agreement is a legal document which sets out the conditions of rent, dates when the agreement starts and ends and the terms of the agreement. You should not sign any legal document or pay a bond until you have read

and understood all the terms and conditions. Friendly staff are on hand to assist you read through rental agreements if you seek clarification.When you start a tenancy, you will need to:

• Inspect the premises and contents. • Sign a written tenancy agreement

(a legal document). • Complete an Entry Condition

Report (record any damage to the property and contents that has been done by previous tenants. Keep a copy of your report and forward a second copy to the landlord or real estate agent).

• Sign a Bond Lodgement form and pay the bond (usually equivalent to four weeks rent). Everyone

who contributes to the bond should be named on the Bond Lodgement form and should sign it so that you have a record of the amount each person has paid.

• The Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) holds the bond in trust while you live in the house/unit, and pays it back to you when you move out (provided there is no disagreement or damage to the premises). The RTA will send you a notice (called an Official Receipt) to let you know they have received your bond. Make sure you keep this notice. The receipt has your Rental Bond Number on it, you will need to use this number if you contact the RTA about your bond. If you do not receive an Official Receipt within a few weeks, it is a good idea to ring the RTA to check whether they have received your bond money. The landlord/real estate agent is required by law to send your bond to the RTA. If they don’t they have breached the law and they could be fined.

• Obtain and keep receipts for every payment you make.

• Check the requirements of your contract for giving notice of your intention to move out at the end of your tenancy agreement. Complete a Notice of Intention to Leave and give to your landlord or real estate agent at least 14 days prior to the end date of your tenancy agreement.

Website: www.rta.qld.gov.au

There are public telephones on

campus, in shopping centres and

various other public places around

the city. These phones take coins

or you can make use of a prepaid

phone card. There are a variety of

prepaid phone cards and prepaid

credit facilities for your mobile

phone available at the Post Office on-

campus. Prepaid phone cards with a

card pin number can be used on most

phones (public phones and at private

residences). International telephone

calls can be very expensive. Making

use of prepaid phone cards avoids

the risk of running up expensive

telephone accounts.

Most rental houses or units have

existing telephone lines. Check the

cost of this when you arrive to make

sure you have the most current and

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Telephone and Postal Services

up-to-date information. In addition

to the cost of calls, handset and line

rental is also payable.

To make arrangements to have a

Telstra phone connection in your

name phone Telstra Residential

Customer Centre on: 13 22 00.

Telstra will make a credit assessment

to determine if you are eligible

for STD and ISD connection in

addition to local call connection. It

is important to be aware the person

who applies for a phone connection

is held financially responsible for

payment of all calls made from that

phone. So it is important to know

who will have access to your phone.

Australia Post has a convenient

location in the Commercial Centre

(Building 65) on campus. It is

open 8.45 am to 4.30 pm Monday

to Friday. All letter and parcel

postal services within Australia

and overseas are available from this

post office as well as the purchase

of money orders and phone cards.

Payment of electricity, gas and

telephone accounts can also be made

here.

Health Services

OVERSEAS STUDENT HEALTH COVER (OSHC) International students and their families must obtain health insurance through the Overseas Student Health Cover Scheme (OSHC). Medibank Private is the preferred OSHC provider for CQUniversity. Your first payment must be made when you pay your first term tuition fees prior to coming to Australia. It is a condition of your student visa that you renew and pay for your membership each year or part year you are enrolled.

If you have a health problem, make an appointment to see a doctor (sometimes called a medical practitioner) with one of the suburban medical practices (look under medical practitioners in the telephone book Yellow Pages section for contact details). Your ISSO has a listing of General Practitioners (GPs) to refer you to or phone 1300 361 046. If you require emergency medical attention after hours go to the Accident and Emergency Section of one of the following hospitals situated in south Rockhampton:

Rockhampton Hospital, Canning StreetTelephone +61 7 4920 6211

Mater HospitalWard StreetTelephone +61 7 4931 3313

Hillcrest HospitalTalford StreetTelephone +61 7 4932 1321

OSHC will contribute towards the cost of medical and hospital care you may need while studying in Australia. The OSHC scheme covers you for 85% of the recommended government scheduled fee for a doctor’s visit (including a specialist doctor) and pathology and x-ray services. You pay the difference. For medical services while you are an admitted patient at a hospital, OSHC will pay 100% of the schedule fee. If the doctor charges more than the schedule fee, you pay the difference. OSHC pays the cost of ambulance transport to a hospital or medical centre if you have an accident or an unforeseen illness that requires immediate medical attention.

Please note: OSHC does not cover the cost of dental, physiotherapy, optical or any other ancillary services during your stay in Australia.

It is your responsibility to ensure your OSHC health insurance cover is always current to comply with Student Visa conditions.

HOW TO MAKE AN OSHC CLAIM When you receive treatment from a doctor you will be given an account to pay. After you have paid the doctor’s account, take your account and receipt together with your OSHC membership card to Medibank Private at the Stockland Rockhampton shopping centre, Musgrave Street, North Rockhampton to apply for your refund.

Website: www.medibank.com.au

EXTRA PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCEYou may consider joining a private medical insurance company to cover you and your family for some of the cost of services not covered by OSHC including optical, physiotherapy, dental and some pharmaceuticals. You may arrange private health insurance through Medibank Private or other health funds listed in the Yellow Pages of the telephone directory.

Website: www.medibank.com.au

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AUSTRALIAN CURRENCYAustralian currency follows a decimal system. The dollar (AUD) the basic unit of the Australian decimal system is divided into 100 cents.

Notes come in denominations of $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100. Coin denominations are $1 and $2 (gold coloured) 50c, 20c, 10c, 5c (silver coloured).

Currency Converter Website: www.xe.com/ucc/full

BANKING It is recommended you bring at least AUD$2500 with you to meet your establishment costs (your temporary accommodation, your rental bond and rent in advance, telephone connection charges, text books, etc.). It is advisable to carry traveller’s cheques in Australian dollars as these are secure. Remember to exchange

some of your travellers cheques into Australian dollars (at least AUD$500) at the international airport on your arrival in Australia to pay for your immediate expenses. (temporary accommodation/food etc) Travellers cheques can also be cashed at banks and major department stores.

Please note: it is not always possible to exchange your home currency into Australian dollars at banks in Rockhampton.

It is advisable to open a bank account as soon as possible after your arrival in Rockhampton so you can transfer funds from overseas. As bank drafts may take up to two to three weeks to be cleared in Australia, electronic transfers are recommended. If you open your account within six weeks of your arrival, your passport will be sufficient proof of identity.

There are branches of the major Australian banks at the Stockland

Rockhampton shopping centre. Normal banking hours are 9 am to 4 pm Monday to Thursday and 9 am to 5 pm Friday. Banks are not open on Saturdays. An ATM (automatic teller machine) is located in the Commercial Centre (Building 65) on campus.

To avoid someone else using your card or PIN to withdraw money from your account it is important to take great care. Do not keep your PIN number in your wallet with your card. If you lose your card, you must notify the bank immediately.

International credit cards, including Visa, Master, American Express and Diners Club cards can all be used in Australia.

AUSTRALIAN CURRENCYA li f ll d i l

some of your travellers cheques into Australian dollars (at least AUD$500) at the international

Rockhampton shopping centre. Normal banking hours are 9 am to 4 pm Monday to Thursday and

Money and Banking

In Australia our laws protect individuals’ rights to practice the religion of their choice. The main religion is Christianity with other widely practised religions being Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism and Taoism.

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Religious and Spiritual Information

CQUniversity INTER-FAITH SACRED GARDEN (BUILDING 202)

The CQUniversity Inter-Faith Sacred Garden provides a quiet space for relaxation, reflection and meditation. For further information, please contact Student Support Centre on +61 7 4930 9456 or email ssc@cqu.edu.au

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PUBLIC TRANSPORT The Sunbus service provides clean and comfortable transport to and from the University. Buses run hourly on various routes commencing 7.15 am until 6.10 pm. Student concession fares are available. However, you will need to apply for a Tertiary Transport Card to receive this consession and this may take several weeks to arrive. Bus timetables are provided in your Welcome Pack on arrival at CQUniversity. Taxi cabs are a reliable form of transport but the cost is relatively high, especially at night. Fares are fixed by meters and are not negotiable. Tipping is not expected.

PRIVATE TRANSPORT Many students find accommodation close to the university and either walk or ride a bicycle. The cost of a bicycle ranges from AUD$50.00 (second-hand) to AUD$150/AUD$300 (medium-quality new). You must wear a safety helmet when

riding a bicycle – it is a compulsory road rule. A substantial fine applies if a police officer notices you cycling without wearing your helmet.

BUYING A CAR Buying and running a car is expensive. Petrol, maintenance, compulsory registration and insurance costs all have to be met. Be cautious if you intend buying a second-hand car. Have it inspected by an authorised mechanic from the RACQ (a motoring organisation) Telephone: +61 7 4928 5700 to ensure it is reliable and meets registration standards. Registration includes compulsory third-party insurance. This insurance pays for the treatment costs of the other party if an accident is your fault. Please note: It does not cover damage to the other car or your own vehicle. The RACQ can provide you with other comprehensive insurance to cover these additional costs.

Website: www.racq.com.au

Free student parking is available at CQUniversity Rockhampton. Students must park their cars in designated areas or vehicles may be towed away.

DRIVING IN QUEENSLAND

You may drive in Queensland if you hold a valid (current) foreign driver licence (a licence to drive a motor vehicle issued to you in your home country). You are allowed to drive any class of motor vehicle authorised under that licence. You must have your foreign driver licence with you at all times when you are driving and produce the licence for inspection by a police officer when requested to do so. If the licence is in a language other than English, you should carry an English translation of the licence or an International Driving Permit with you as well. This will ensure your licence details are readily identifiable should you be required to produce your licence. International Driving Permits can only be issued in your home country so it is important to obtain one in your home country before you come to Australia. RACQ can assist you in this process.

Australia is very safety conscious regarding road rules. There are penalties if you breach the rules. Do not exceed the speed limit. Wear your seat belt in a car at all times. Do not drive if you have been drinking alcohol or are affected by drugs. Do not drive if you are tired. You are also not allowed to operate a mobile phone while driving.

Website: www.transport.qld.gov.au

Transport

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Employment

WORKING IN ROCKHAMPTON Many international students obtain work during their stay in Australia. Students visa holders automatically receive permission to work with their Student Visa status after they arrive in Australia and after the student has commenced study. The university notifies the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) of your arrival and your commencement of studies. Your work visa permits you to work up to 20 hours per week in part-time employment during term and full-time employment during vacation.

Whilst a number of CQUniversity students obtain part-time work, work cannot be guaranteed. Unemployment exists in Australia and therefore part-time work is not always easy to find. Also your part-time job may distract you from your study and affect your results. Students should not rely on income from part-time work to meet tuition and living expenses. Dependants of doctorate and masters level students may work full-time, dependants of other students are limited to 20 hours work per week. Website: www.immi.gov.au

HOW TO APPLY FOR A TAX FILE NUMBER If you want to work in Australia you must apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) to give to your employer. International students studying approved programs are regarded as residents for taxation purposes. You may apply for a Tax File Number at the on-line Australian Taxation Office website after you have received permission to work from DIAC. Tax file application forms are available from the Australian Post Office in the Commercial Centre (Building 65) at CQUniversity. It is also important to lodge your Tax File Number with your bank so any interest you earn on your savings is not taxed at the highest taxation rate. CQUniversity staff do not have authority to provide students with information regarding taxation issues. Please phone the Australian Taxation Office direct on: 13 28 61 if you require assistance.

Website: www.ato.gov.au/individuals

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During your stay in Australia it is important you comply with the conditions of your Student Visa issued to you by DIAC (Department of Immigration and Citizenship). Listed below are those conditions not already covered elsewhere in this document.

PAYMENT OF ACADEMIC TUITION FEES New students must pay Tuition Fees and OHSC Fees before the Confirmation of Enrolment (COE) is issued. The COE allows new students to proceed with their VISA application.

An invoice will be sent to continuing students. This should be paid by the due date to ensure VISA compliance.

ENROLMENT As an international student you must enrol on a full-time basis to complete your study within the stated duration of the program, as recorded on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) This means that your progress will be monitored closely to ensure that you meet this requirement.

In your first term of study you must enrol in 4 (four) courses if you are an undergraduate student, or 3 (three) courses if you are a postgraduate student. All of these courses must be undertaken on-campus.

In subsequent terms you may enrol in fewer courses but you must ensure that you will complete within the stated duration of the program – this is achieved by

studying Term 3, from November to February. You may also seek approval to enrol in a distance, or flex course where no classes are held, but you must be careful not to enrol in more than 25% of the courses you undertake at CQUniversity in the flexible learning mode.

You must remain enrolled at CQUniversity for the first six (6) calendar months of your program.

SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESSION As a visa condition you are required to maintain academic progress. CQUniversity provides a variety of support staff and resources to assist you to attain satisfactory academic progress. More information can be accessed from the CQUniversity Monitoring Academic Progress Policy http://policy.cqu.edu.au/Policy/policy.jsp?policyid=194. Please make a time to see your International Student Support Officer (ISSO) when you arrive.

CHANGE OF PROVIDERStudent Visa holders must remain with the education provider with whom they originally enrolled for at least the first six (6) calendar months of the course. Students wishing to change education provider during the period of restriction which applies, must apply in writing to CQUniversity with a one page statement and an offer of a place from another University. Such applications will only be approved under some circumstances.

Student Visa Compliance Conditions

DEFERRAL OF STUDIES Once an international student has enrolled in a program they are not allowed to defer commencement of their studies, or suspend their studies, except on the grounds of illness, evidence by a Doctor’s certificate, or other exceptional compassionate circumstance beyond the control of the student, for example, bereavement. If you defer or suspend your studies on any other grounds, CQUniversity is obligated to report you to DIAC as not complying with your visa conditions.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS Your local contact details (Australian address and telephone contact) must be up to date at all times. Within seven days of making any change to your accommodation you must provide CQUniversity with your new address details or you can register your new address/phone contact details on the website: www.cquni.edu.au through the e.rolment link.

Contact the Student Contact Centre Line on 13CQUni (13 27 86) if you incur any problems.

REPORTING TO DIACCQUniversity is required to report international students to DIAC:

• when there are any changes to a student’s enrolment, such as change of address or duration of course;

• if a student attempts to defer or suspends their studies;

• where a student has been issued with an eCOE and has paid the tuition fee but is now seeking a refund of those fees paid;

• where a student refuses to enrol in the required study load, taking into account the stated duration of the program;

• where a student is not enrolled on a full-time basis and where the Faculty has not approved a reduced study load;

• where a student fails to achieve satisfactory academic progression over a twelve month period; or

• when a student completes their program.

The consequences of this reporting are varied but could result in DIAC cancelling your student visa.

Website: www.immi.gov.au/students

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STUDENT OMBUDSMAN Students may also contact the University Student Ombudsman, if you have any genuine issues of concern about your assessment or grade for a course. Telephone: +61 7 4923 2066 or email: student-ombudsman@cqu.edu.au

INDEPENDENT DISPUTE RESOLUTION SERVICES Please see the university policy website http://policy.cqu.edu.au for further information on Grievance Procedures or alternatively contact your ISSO.

Grievance Procedures

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INTERNATIONAL STUDENT SUPPORT OFFICER (BUILDING 31)The International Student Support Officer (ISSO) is your first point of contact to help you settle into your new study life. The ISSO will help you to resolve problems – personal or academic. To ensure you are given the best opportunity to succeed with your university studies please make contact with the ISSO as soon as you can after your arrival. During your first interview with the International Student Support Officer a number of interview times will be made for throughout the term if required so that you can discuss support you may need to assist with your study progress.

The International Student Support Officer is a member of the Student Support Centre student support team. This team are there to provide a wide range of support services including Orientation, counselling, career planning

Student Support Services

and graduate placement, student mentor links, Skills for Academic Success sessions to name just a few. For Student Support Centre queries via email: ssc@cqu.edu.au. The International Student Support Officer’s telephone number is +61 7 4930 6370 or Mobile 0437 919 048.

ORIENTATION Your participation in Orientation at CQUniversity is an essential part of your attendance at University. Here you will meet Faculty and Support staff and you will be given information that is vital to your success with your university study program. This time is also an excellent opportunity for you to ask questions and to get to know other students. Some topics covered at Orientation include:

• your study program; • the technology and

administration processes that are necessary for you to be successful with your studies;

• the support available for you to achieve satisfactory academic progress;

• how to find your way around the university;

• who to go to when you need assistance;

• what social and sporting activities are available.

You will also meet your Student Mentor who will be available to advise you during Orientation and throughout your first year at University.

Your International Student Support Officer (ISSO) will be there to assist you, please make contact as soon as you can after your arrival on +61 7 4930 6370. Email: ssc@cqu.edu.au.

Specific information about the Orientation program is available on the website available on the current students webpage under the popular links section - first year students.

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ACADEMIC WRITING SUPPORT Academic writing support is available year round for students at all levels of study and provides individual assistance with academic writing (assignment or section of thesis) prior to submission for assessment. The Learning Support Advisors will work with you on a one to one basis to ensure you develop the academic writing skills needed to successfully complete your degree. For an appointment please phone: +61 7 4930 9059

LIBRARY INFORMATION SERVICES (BUILDING 10) The CQUniversity Library provides excellent access to information resources and services. Library staff offer a varied program of information literacy education including orientation tours, generic skills classes and specialised tutorials in accessing and retrieving information.

Website: www.library.cqu.edu.au

IT HELP For a range of IT Services click on “IT HELP” on the current students webpage

Student Support Services

ACADEMIC LEARNING SERVICES(BUILDING 32) Supporting the University’s students at all levels of tertiary study, there are staff at the Rockhampton, Bundaberg, Emerald, Gladstone and Mackay campuses. It also offers assignment assistance to distance students.

The goals of the services are to assist students in all aspects of assignment writing and oral presentation, assist with language and structure of academic communication and enable students to improve their English language, research and referencing skills.

Website: www.clc.cqu.edu.au

MATHEMATICS LEARNING CENTRE (BUILDING 32) The Mathmatics Learning Centre offers academic learning support for mathematical writing and calculations. For an appointment please phone: +61 7 4930 9059

Website: www.mlc.cqu.edu.au

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (BUILDING 19) The Information Technology Division (ITD) provides a number of computer laboratories in various locations throughout the University. All computers are fully networked and students are provided with free email accounts and open access

to the Internet. The Help Desk is located on the ground floor of Building 10.

Telephone +61 7 4930 9233 or email helpdesk@cqu.edu.au.

Website: www.itd.cqu.edu.au

STUDENT SUPPORT CENTRE (BUILDING 31) This team are available to provide confidential counselling regarding personal concerns, financial advice and other issues related to your academic progress and equity issues. Staff also conduct career workshops to assist students with information about further study options, career exploration, job search skills, resume preparation and interview

techniques. For an appointment to see a personal or careers counsellor please phone: +61 7 4930 9456 or ssc@cqu.edu.au.

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Preparing for your Departure to Australia

In preparation for your stay in Australia we suggest you visit the following websites:

Guide to Visiting Australia Website: www.immi.gov.au/visitors/index.htm

Destination Queensland Website: www.queenslandholidays.com.au

These sites will give you lots of information about life in Australia and Queensland in particular, Australian people, our history, our geography, our government and our culture.

If you would like assistance with travel bookings, please contact Travel Crew.Website: www.travelcrew.com.au

BRINGING YOUR FAMILY TO AUSTRALIA Your dependent family members are eligible to apply for a Student Dependent visa at your nearest Australian High Commission or Embassy. They will require supporting documents such as marriage and birth certificates and passports. Proof of sufficient income for living purposes and proof that adequate arrangements have been made for the education of any school-age dependents will also be required.

In most instances it is best for you to settle into life and study in Rockhampton prior to making arrangements for your family to join you.

SCHOOLING/CHILD CARE FOR DEPENDENT CHILDREN In most cases, international students will be required to pay tuition fees for your dependent school-age children’s education at Queensland Government schools. Prices at private schools may differ and are subject to change. It is recommended that you confirm fees at each individual school.

Contact CQUniversity Student Contact Centre office for procedures to follow to obtain a Confirmation of Enrolment for your dependent school-age children. Information on child care is available from the Student Support Centre office.

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What to Bring

CLOTHING You will need appropriate clothes for a tropical climate. Cool light clothes (t-shirts/shirts/blouses and jeans/casual slacks/skirts are fine for the summer). It is also a good idea to wear a hat and long sleeved shirts for protection from sunburn during the summer months. Sweatshirts/jumpers/tracksuit are necessary during the winter months. Australians generally have a casual approach to dressing. On-campus most students and academic staff dress informally.

You may attend dinners and student celebrations during your stay in Australia. Men often wear suits or smart trousers and a shirt/tie for these occasions. Appropriate wear for women would be a semi-formal dress or skirt and top.

OTHER ITEMS Personal items such a toiletries, bath towels, bed linen, driver’s licence/international driver’s licence translated into English, photographs from home and electric plug/adaptor. The standard voltage for electrical appliances in Australia is 240 volts. Standard plugs have three flat pins. You may need to purchase an adaptor to use your appliances in Australia. These are available from most electrical or department stores. International students can bring such items as desktop or laptop computers and similar electronic equipment duty/tax free into Australia provided Customs is satisfied the student intends taking these items out of Australia on the student’s departure.

Cooking utensils and other household items can be purchased at reasonable cost from department stores or second-hand shops after your arrival in Australia.

WHAT NOT TO BRING It is important you are aware of what you cannot bring into Australia. You can be fined on the spot or face prosecution if you do not declare items of quarantine concern. If you are not sure about the goods you are carrying or Australia’s quarantine law, declare them anyway and ask a quarantine officer.

By being aware of Australia’s quarantine laws and passing on this information to friends and relatives overseas, you can help prevent the entry into Australia of pests and diseases through parcels containing illegal food and plant items. Remember, an innocent gift mailed from one person can often mean problems for another.

The following items cannot be mailed to you in Australia - mayonnaise, moon cakes, fresh noodles containing egg or meat, fresh fruit and vegetables, packaged meals containing egg, dairy products or meat and meat products (fresh, dried, frozen, smoked, salted or canned, including stock and meat snacks), salmon and trout (fresh or dried), cheese, beans (dried or fresh), salami (fresh or preserved), sausages (fresh or preserved), milk and dairy products including butter or plant material.

If you bring AUD$10 000 or more into Australia you must declare it to customs upon arrival. You will not incur any taxes by declaring the money you bring to Australia but failing to declare AUD$10 000 or more is an offence.

Remember to pass on this important information to friends and relatives overseas.

Website: www.daff.gov.au/aqis

Use the following checklist to ensure you are well prepared for your journey to Australia. Make sure you have:

• a valid passport containing your student visa;

• two passport size photographs for your student identification (ID) card;

• collected and checked your airline tickets and travel itinerary;

• send your Arrivals Details Form to Student Support Centre +61 7 4930 9366; or ssc@cqu.edu.au

• purchased travellers cheques; • purchased Australian dollars to

cover your initial expenses; • arranged for a visit to your

dentist for a check-up (dental treatment is not covered in Australia by your OSHC insurance);

• read this International

Travel Checklist

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Student Guide;• read carefully the Australian

Quarantine section: What not to bring into Australia. Refer www.daff.gov.au/aqis.

Pack the following items in your in-flight hand luggage:

• this International Student Guide. It contains the contact numbers and email details for many of the organisations you will need to contact when you arrive in Australia;

• your passport with your student visa;

• airline ticket; • money and credit cards; • camera; • a spare pair of spectacles or

contact lenses.Personal medications with a letter from your doctor certifying the medication is required for your medical treatment (customs officers may ask you to explain the purpose

of your medication).

Warning: Do not accept bags or items from other people and agree to bring them into Australia. Travellers are sometimes tricked into bringing illegal items, especially drugs into Australia. Penalties for bringing illegal items into Australia are very severe. If anyone asks you to bring a parcel or gift to Australia open the parcel and have a look at the contents before accepting it. Inspect everything that goes into your personal luggage. Not knowing that an illegal item is in your luggage may not be accepted as an excuse for bringing it into Australia.

HELPFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERSStudent Support Centre Office Hours: 8.45 am – 4.45 pm Monday to Friday +61 7 4930 9456

After Hours Emergency Telephone Contact:

• CQUniversity Security 0418 792 982

• Contact International Student Support Officer 0437 919 048

Brisbane International Airport Traveller’s Information Service +61 7 3406 3190

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A WEEK BEFORE YOU LEAVE… If you would like to be met on your arrival in Rockhampton, please complete all sections of the CQUniversity Student Arrivals Details form. Complete the form and fax it back to: Student Support Centre Fax Number +61 7 4930 9366, or email ssc@cqu.edu.au.

Please send the form at least five days prior to your arrival in Australia. CQUniversity Student Services staff will meet you and transport you to your temporary accommodation at the Capricornia College or a budget priced motel close to the university. There is no charge for this service.

WHEN TO ARRIVE Students are encouraged to arrive in Rockhampton at least one week prior to the commencement of your orientation to university life.

Arriving in Australia

This will allow you sufficient time to locate suitable accommodation and settle in. The commencement date of your Orientation is printed on your Letter of Offer. It is important to note that at CQUniversity your orientation is designed as a vital part of your academic study. Involvement in orientation week is extremely important to your chance of success.

ARRIVING AT BRISBANE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT The following documents are required for entry clearance (a) Your passport and (b) Incoming Passenger card (the flight attendant on your aircraft will give you this card to complete). These documents will be returned to you after immigration processing. You may then collect your luggage and proceed to the baggage examination area. If you do not have anything to declare, follow the green

channel. If you do have something to declare, follow the red channel.

Please note: In either the red or green channel, you may be asked questions by Customs or Quarantine staff. These officers may also examine your baggage.

As there is no international terminal in Rockhampton, most students arrive at the Brisbane International Airport.

You will need to transfer from your international flight to a domestic flight or make a booking to travel by bus or train to Rockhampton. Air travel to Rockhampton takes approximately one hour, electric train, seven hours and travel by bus/coach, 10 hours.

Domestic airline check-in counters are located in the Arrivals Hall, to your right after you leave the Customs Hall.

If you have any questions or require assistance please contract the staff of the Traveller’s Information Service Desk, located near the Arrivals Hall exit doors. The trained staff are available to assist you make airline, bus or train bookings for your travel on to Rockhampton. Information on budget priced accommodation is also available if it is necessary for you to stay overnight in Brisbane.

Please remember to exchange some of your travellers cheques into Australian dollars at the

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International Airport (at least AUD$500 for your temporary accommodation etc.). You may also wish to exchange your home currency into Australian dollars as it is not always possible to exchange this at banks in Rockhampton.

ADJUSTING TO A NEW ENVIRONMENT Living and studying in another country is exciting and challenging. However when you first arrive in Australia, you may experience a period of adjustment. It is a perfectly natural experience, which most people have when they move to a new country. You have to find your way around, find accommodation, get used to different food, maybe a different climate, learn to understand a different culture and new customs. There may be many things you will not understand. Some students

find Australians speak very quickly and have an unusual accent. The meaning of slang words and phrases and some gestures may not be easily understood.

Australians do not usually use titles and refer to most people, including academic staff, by their first name. Most people you meet will expect to call you by your first name.

Introduce yourself in a way so they will know the name you would like to be known as.

As a general rule, Australians tend to work to schedules and expect punctuality from others. Appointments, including informal ones, should always be kept or an apology sent beforehand if you will be late or are not able to keep the appointment.

Australia is a multicultural society and readily accepts people for their individual customs and beliefs. Australians are friendly and in

most cases will understand the difficulties you may have and be willing to help you.

The International Student Support Officer is trained to assist international students to adjust to this new environment. We look forward to welcoming you to CQUniversity.

If you or your family have any questions, please contact us:

CQUniversity Rockhampton Student Support Centre Building 31Bruce HighwayRockhampton QLD 4702AUSTRALIA

Telephone: +61 7 4930 9456 Fax: +61 7 4930 9366 Mobile: 0437 919 048Email: ssc@cquni.edu.au Website: www.cquni.edu.au

Contact details

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Published by CQUniversity (January 2010). The information in this publication was correct at the time of printing however is subject to change. Contact the University for the latest information.

CRICOS Provider Codes: QLD 00219C, NSW 01315F, VIC 01624DJN10-1095

www.cquni.edu.au