E: internationalsupport@cdu.edu.auW: www.cdu.edu.au

FOR MORE INFORMATION

08 8946 6288

CASUARINA CAMPUSInformation CentreT: 1800 061 963 | F: 08 8946 6642Postal Address: Charles Darwin University, Darwin NT 0909Street Address: Charles Darwin University, Ellengowan Drive, Casuarina

Opening HoursM: 8.30am – 4.00pm | T: 8.30am – 4.00pm | W: 8.30am – 6.00pm | Th: 8.30am – 4.00pm | F: 8.30am – 3.00pm

Equity ServicesT: 08 8946 6288 | F: 08 8946 6654

Opening HoursM to Th: 8.30am – 4.00pm | F: 8.30am – 3.00pm

CRICOS Provider No. 00300K (NT) | CRICOS Provider No. 03286A (NSW) I RTO Provider No. 0373

38782 uniprintNT 1.12 N

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT GUIDE 2012

UNDERGRADUATE, POSTGRADUATE AND VET

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I wish all our international students a very warm welcome to Charles Darwin University. I hope you will enjoy your studies, make new friends and find living in Darwin a rich and rewarding experience.

You may find the Australian way of life to be very different from the one you have come from. I hope you will immerse yourself into experiencing that difference and that within a short space of time you will be able to enjoy all that the university and the Northern Territory has to offer.

This guide contains information about the services and staff available at Charles Darwin University (CDU) to assist you to make this transition smooth and successful. It is also a valuable source of information so keep this handy and refer to it often.

The international support staff are available to assist you with any problems you may experience, or to answer any questions you might have – anything from accommodation to student visa information. If the International Student Advisor cannot help, you will be referred to someone who can, so please seek assistance. I wish you every success in your studies at CDU and hope you make the most of your time in the beautiful “Top End” of Australia.

Edwina GroseDirector, Student Administration and Equity Services

Welcome to Charles Darwin University

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Contents

Welcome to Charles Darwin University 1Studying at Charles Darwin University 4Support for international students 5Equity Services 5International Student Support and Events Officer 6The International Student Advisor 6Off-Campus Accommodation Officer 7Careers and Employment 7School of Academic Language and Learning (SALL) 8Your health 9Health cover 9Hospital 9Dental and optical services 9Doctors 10Fees 11Frequently asked questions on fees 11Enrolment for higher education students 12Study load 12Online enrolment 12How to enrol 13Assessment and progression 14Progression requirements 14VET student progression 14Examinations 15Special arrangements 15Bilingual dictionary use in examinations 15

Course completion 16Course transfer 16Graduation 16Letter of completion 16Alumni 17Concerns and complaints 18Legal assistance 19Darwin Community Legal Service 19NT Legal Commission 19Permission to work 20Work Visa Conditions 20Volunteering 21Money and tax 22Tax File Number (TFN) 22Salary/wages 23Opening a bank account 23Automatic teller machine (ATM) 24Superannuation 24EFTPOS 24Transport 25Buses 25Taxis 25Buying a car 25Buying from a licensed motor vehicle dealer 25Buying privately 25Driver’s licence 26

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Buying a bicycle 26Insurance 27Car insurance 27Contents (belongings) insurance 27Keeping in touch 28Post Office 28Using email 28Social media 28Telephone calls 29Telephone cards 29ESOS Act 2000 30Migration Act and DIAC 30University’s obligation to report 31Change of address or phone number 31Studying full-time (ESOS Act, National Code No. 30) 31Transferring to another university 32Maintain overseas student health cover 32Permission to work – no work rights 32Meeting course requirements 32Changing your course or course transfer 32Leave of absence (deferring studies) 33Getting approval for leave of absence 33Visa extension 33Your safety 34Security on campus 34Emergency services 34

Fire Brigade 34Police 34Police and Australian laws 35Australian police 35How to get help 35Think Before initiative 35Drugs and alcohol 36Gambling 36Introduction to Darwin 37Climate 37Sun protection 37Beaches 38Shopping 39Imported foods 39Asian 39Halal 39Supermarkets 39Markets 40Mindil Beach market 40Parap market 40Rapid Creek market and Nightcliff market 40Useful contacts 41Campus maps 43Alice Springs campus 43Palmerston campus 44Casuarina campus 45

Contents

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Studying at Charles Darwin University

Be prepared for a new style of teaching and learning when studying in Australia. Teaching is carried out in different forms: lectures, tutorials, seminars, group work, laboratory work and independent study. Please make sure you attend all required lectures, tutorials and practical sessions for each unit and hand in all required assessment work such as written assignments, presentations, and group projects on time.

University education offers you much freedom, but at the same time it places more responsibility on you to plan your own life, particularly your own study programs. Your first year is a year of adjustment, so remember that many of your fellow students are experiencing the same newness, the same strangeness, the same challenges. You will need a little time to clarify your objectives and to frame a properly balanced program for yourself. The lecturing staff are a great resource and will assist you with your academic queries. It is important that you contact them if you are worried about your academic performance. Remember that the sooner you talk to someone about the problem, the sooner it can be addressed and, hopefully, resolved.

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Support for international students

Equity ServicesStudying in a foreign country provides many opportunities and challenges. You will face the challenge of adjusting to a different culture, values, beliefs, and different ways of doing things. You may have the added challenge of speaking a different language, missing family and friends, and getting used to the different foods in Australia. It is important that during the first couple of days in Darwin you make sure to take plenty of rest, call or email your family to let them know you have arrived safely and take the time to familiarise yourself with your surroundings. Darwin has a tropical climate so make sure you drink plenty of fluids. If you feel overwhelmed, tired, anxious or sad, it is important that you know that support is available through Equity Services. This is a free and confidential service for all students and you are strongly encouraged to contact the International Student Advisor if you feel the need to talk. Other support services include: personal counselling, disability support and careers and employment advice. The Counsellor and Student Advisors often work with students who are from different cultural backgrounds and have a good understanding of the challenges of living in a new environment.

If you don’t know where to go, Equity Services is a good place to start.

Contact details:Location: Blue 1.1.21-34T: 08 8946 6288E: equity@cdu.edu.auW: www.cdu.edu.au/ses

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Support for international students

International Student Support and Events OfficerThe International Student Support and Events Officer is the first point of contact for international students on arrival at CDU and provides information about:

• courses • health cover• enrolments • events and activities

The International Student Support & Events Officer is available for consultations at the University Information Centre, Orange 1, on weekdays from 10am to 12 noon. You can also email your enquiry to internationalsupport@cdu.edu.au

The International Student AdvisorThe International Student Advisor provides advice and information about:

• student visas and work permits• student visa conditions• student progression• academic support• counselling support• CoE (Confirmation of Enrolment) and student visa extensions• support services such as study support and applications for

special examination arrangements

If you wish to make an appointment with the Advisor, contact the receptionist in Equity Services. Normally appointments are 30 minutes; please advise the receptionist if you need a longer appointment.

Contact details:Equity Services, Blue 1.1.21-34T: 08 8946 6288F: 08 8946 6654E: vibeke.foss@cdu.edu.auMSN Messenger ID: intl.support-cdu@live.com.au

To make international student support services more accessible, the International Student Advisor is also available on MSN messenger; simply add: intl.support-cdu@live.com.au to your Friends List. This means that you can be anywhere in the world and still be able to receive instant advice regarding your studies and visas.

Note: This service is only available on MSN messenger on Monday afternoons from 2pm - 4pm (NT time).

Facebook: International students are also able to keep up to date with information and events on Facebook. Please look for international students @ Charles Darwin University or go to W: www.facebook.com/CDU.international.

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Support for international students

Off-Campus Accommodation OfficerCDU’s Off-Campus Accommodation Officer can assist students with information and advice about finding appropriate accommodation while studying at CDU. The Off-Campus Accommodation Officer provides free and confidential information and advice on housing options, support and assistance with accommodation problems and tenancy advice (interpreting legislation).

Contact details:Equity Services, Blue 1.1.21-34T: 08 8946 6288F: 08 8946 6654E: accommodation.assistance@cdu.edu.au

Careers and EmploymentThe Careers and Employment team can assist current CDU students and recent graduates with:

• Career counselling• Career planning• Job search strategies• Written job applications• Preparing for job interviews

All services are offered free of charge for CDU students and recent graduates.

The Careers and Employment team also manages CareerHub where you can view job vacancies including full-time, part-time/casual, internships, graduate programs volunteering and more. Go to www.cdu.edu.au/careers and use your student number and password to login.

You should also try to make time to attend the annual Careers Fair and other careers events held throughout the year to enhance your career management skills - check CareerHub regularly to find out what events are coming up.

Contact details:Careers and EmploymentEquity Services, Blue 1.1.21-34T: 08 8946 6288E: careers@cdu.edu.auW: www.cdu.edu.au/careers

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Support for international students

School of Academic Language and Learning (SALL)To improve your English language skills, academic writing skills and ability to read effectively, contact the Academic Language and Learning Success Program (ALLSP). ALLSP holds daily workshops in all academic skills during semester, including English language. The workshops are held on campus and online. ALLSP also offers one to one help to students who regularly attend workshops.

Contact details:Location: Orange 4, level 2T: 08 8946 7249E: allsp@cdu.edu.auW: http://www.cdu.edu.au/lba/all/

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Your health

Health coverYou should receive your Overseas Health Card from the International Student Support and Events Officer soon after your arrival at CDU. You will also receive a booklet explaining what is covered and how to make claims. Please read your booklet carefully for more information and keep it safe to use in the future. The OSHC Worldcare representative is located in the university Information Centre on Tuesdays between 2.30-4pm and on Fridays 9.30am-12midday. If you wish to submit a claim online, visit the OSHC Worldcare website at W: www.oshcworldcare.com.au, where you will be able to process your claims without having to fill in any forms.

OSHC Worldcare has direct billing arrangements in place with Casuarina Family Practice and Night and Day Medical and Dental Surgery. This means that, provided you visit these participating medical centres, you will no longer have to make any claims; the medical centre will invoice OSHC Worldcare directly – all you will need to pay is the gap. To keep up to date with direct billing services, check the OSHC Worldcare website regularly for updates:

W: www.oshcworldcare.com.au/member_student/medical_providers.aspx

HospitalThe Royal Darwin Hospital is open 24 hours a day and is located on Rocklands Drive in Tiwi. This hospital has both a public and private section. There is also a separate private hospital located next door. If you need to see a doctor urgently outside normal working hours, you should go to the Emergency Department. Please expect to wait for quite some time as emergencies take priority. Please remember to take your OSHC Worldcare card with you and always ask for a receipt for any payments you make.

Hospital enquiries, admissions and emergencies T: 08 8922 8888.

Dental and optical servicesStandard OSHC does not cover any dental services so you will need to pay for dental treatment. Ask for an estimate of the cost of the work to be done at your first visit. Some dentists are more expensive than others. Appointments are necessary to visit a dentist, and payment at the time of service is always expected. OSHC covers the cost of one eye test every two years, but it does not cover the cost of glasses or contact lenses. OSHC Worldcare offers further cover under OSHC Student Plus for an extra cost.

For information on costs regarding dental and optical extras visit W: www.peoplecare.com.au.

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Your health

DoctorsDoctors in Australia will charge you for a standard consultation and these consultation fees may be $75.00 or more. You will have to pay and then take your receipt to the Worldcare Representative to receive your reimbursement. Remember that your reimbursement will only bea proportion of the amount you paid. The following four medical surgeries are set up for direct billing with OSHC Worldcare and you will only need to pay the ‘gap’.

Casuarina Night and Day Medical Surgery, Casuarina Shopping CentreMonday – Saturday: 8am – 8pmSunday and public holidays: 9am – 5pmFees: $75-$85 depending on the day and time (correct as of14 November, 2011)T: 08 8927 1899

Casuarina Family Practice, Casuarina Shopping Square(next to Woolworths)Weekdays: 8.30am – 4.30pmSaturdays: 9am – 12pmFees: $80-85 (correct as of 14 November, 2011)T: 08 8927 7588

Tiwi Medical Clinic1/5 Tiwi Gardens, Tiwi Weekdays: 8.30am – 5pmSaturdays: 9am – 12pmFees: This practice bulk bills. This means that students who have OSHC with Worldcare will not have any out of pocket expenses when seeing a doctor at this practice.T: 8927 4816 (correct as of 14 November, 2011)

Palmerston Medical Clinic6 Maluka Street, PalmerstonT: 8932 5100Weekdays: 8.30am – 4.30pm (by appointment) and 6 – 9pm (walk-ins: doctors may be consulted without prior appointment)Saturdays: 1.30 – 4.30pm (by appointment only)Sundays: 10am – 12midday (walk-ins: doctors may be consulted without prior appointment)Fees: This practice bulk bills. This means that students who have OSHC with Worldcare will not have any out of pocket expenses when seeing a doctor at this practice. (correct as of 14 November, 2011)

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Fees

After your first semester, course fees can be paid directly to the cashier, who is located in the Information Centre. Course fees are payable by international students and are due on the date the semester or study period commences.

Frequently asked questions on feesQ: Are the course fees the same each year?No, course fees are subject to changes each year.

Q: When are course fees due?Course fees are due on the date the semester or study period starts.

Q: If I fail a unit, do I have to pay to repeat the unit or study for an equivalent unit?Yes.

Q: If I withdraw from a unit before census date, can my fees be refunded?Yes. The university’s refund policy can be found on the university website under International Students. You can also visit the Office of International Services for more information and request a refund form for international students.

Q. What will happen if I don’t pay my fees on the due date? It will result to your enrolment being cancelled and the Department of Immigration and Citizenship will be advised of the non-payment of fees. Consequently, this could lead to cancellation of your student visa.

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Enrolment for higher education students

Study loadInternational higher education students need to pass eight units or 80 credit points each year to ensure that they complete their program in the set time as advised in the course outline. For example, students can choose to take three units in Semester 1, four units in Semester 2 and one unit in Summer Semester, as long as they complete 80 credit points in a year. In order for the university to ensure that students are enrolled correctly, at the beginning of the academic year international students must enrol for both semester 1 and 2. You must enrol in 80 credit points at the beginning of the year, without exception. This is important and you should enrol according to your recommended study plan. Study plans can be found on the CDU website.

Note: If you begin your course in Semester 2, you will only need to enrol in 40 credit points for the year.

Online enrolmentContinuing international students who are undertaking higher education studies may enrol online by accessing ‘My Student Info’ under Quick Links on the university website homepage; simply follow the prompts.

Note: As an international student you need to comply with your student visa conditions and you need to consider the following when you enrol online:

• you must enrol for the full year when you enrol for Semester 1

• you must complete 80 credit points a year• you may enrol in a maximum 25 per cent of your course

externally• you must enrol in at least one internal unit in Semester 1

and Semester 2.

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Enrolment for higher education students

How to enrol• download a copy of your study plan from the CDU website

and use it to identify the units in which you should enrol• read the Higher Education Student Guide W: www.cdu.edu.au/studentnet/student-guide• Check the unit timetable W: http://skua.cdu.edu.au/swseven/

If you are in doubt about which units you need to enrol in, contact the Academic Liaison Unit for more information.

T: 08 8946 7357E: alu@cdu.edu.au

You can choose to enrol either online or by completing an enrolment form - follow the instructions below.

Online enrolment Paper enrolment

Step 1: Complete your enrolment by accessing the online enrolment system in “My Student Info”.

Step 1: Complete the Higher Education Enrolment form.

Step 2: Confirm your enrolment by printing a receipt of the enrolment.

Step 2: Return the Higher Education Enrolment form to the Information Centre.

Step 3: Ensure you submit the online enrolment by the relevant closing dates.

Step 3: Ensure that the form reaches Student Services by the relevant closing dates.

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Assessment and progression

Progression requirementsStudent visa holders must maintain a satisfactory progression in their course. At the end of each semester, the university will review students’ academic performance and notify those who may be performing unsatisfactorily.

Students who fail 50 per cent or more in a period of six months will have their academic performance reviewed. An ‘Under Review Notice’ will be sent to the student advising the student to contact the Student Progression Officer within 10 working days. Failure to respond to the Under Review Notice within the 10 workings days after the formal release of grades will result in students being withdrawn from any enrolled units and prevent them from enrolling in any further units.

A student who fails to pass more than 50 per cent of units attempted in a period of 12 months will be sent an ‘Unsatisfactory Progression Notice’ and is required to respond in writing to the Head of School. The student must account for their unsatisfactory progression and seek the Head of School’s approval to continue their studies.

Failure to respond to the ‘Unsatisfactory Progression Notice’ within the stated timeframe will result in an immediate exclusion from the course. In both instances the International Student Advisor will invite the students to attend a meeting to discuss their future studies and possible intervention strategies.

VET student progressionInternational student who are enrolled in a VET program must attend a minimum of 80% of all competencies. Failure to maintain attendance will result in visa cancellation.

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Examinations

Special arrangementsAn international student whose first language is not English and who has completed matriculation in an institution where the medium of instruction was not English, is entitled to an extra 10 minutes per exam hour (to a maximum of 30 minutes) in written exams during the student’s first academic year of study.

Any approved extra time will be in increments of 10 minutes an hour to a maximum of 30 minutes (i.e. in a two-hour examination, extra time permitted is 20 minutes, a four- hour examination, the extra time is 30 minutes). The application must be made at least 28 days before the start of the examination period. The Application for Special Arrangement for Examinations is available from the Information Centre.

Bilingual dictionary use in examinationsAll students from non-English speaking backgrounds can bring in unannotated paper dictionaries for their examinations. You do not need special permission for this.

Note: Electronic dictionaries or thesauri are NOT allowed..

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Course completion

Course transferIf you wish to transfer to another course or continue studying at CDU upon completion of your current degree, please contact the Office of International Services.

Contact details:Office of International ServicesLocation: Orange 2, level 1T: 08 8946 7215E: international@cdu.edu.auW: www.cdu.edu.au/international

GraduationThe university has three graduation ceremonies each year. If you have successfully completed your course at the end of Semester 1, you will be invited to attend the Graduation in October. If you have successfully completed your course at the end of Semester 2 you will be invited to attend the graduation ceremony in May/June. When your final grades are released and you are certain that you have completed all requirements for your course, you will need to complete a Nomination to Graduate form, which is available from the Information Centre. Once this form has been processed and it has been confirmed that you are eligible to graduate, you will receive an invitation to the next graduation ceremony.

Letter of completionIf you wish to apply for permanent residency after completing your studies, you will be required to provide the Department of Immigration and Citizenship with a ‘Letter of Completion’. Send an email containing your full name, student number, course, birth date and postal address to E: internationalsupport@cdu.edu.au. Please write ‘Request Letter of Completion’ in the subject line of the email.

Note:• you will not be issued with a ‘Letter of Completion’ until

you have completed your program of study

• you can expect to wait up to 10 business days for the letter to arrive in the mail, so don’t wait until the last minute to email a request

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Alumni

Your university experience does not end at graduation: the benefit of graduating from a university like CDU is that you become a part of a community that has regional, national and international reach.

Our alumni have access to a range of additional benefits that you can access just by keeping in touch:

• Invitations to special events and networking opportunities• Discounts on University services• The opportunity to share your story and experiences• Receive information on University e-news, achievements

and activities

You can keep in touch and update your contact details at www.cdu.edu.au/alumni

We would love to hear from you - email us at any time at alumni@cdu.edu.au

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Concerns and complaints

All students at Charles Darwin University should feel free to raise any matter of concern relating to academic studies, the conduct of others at the University, administrative actions, facilities or other issues about which you believe the University should be aware. We encourage students to resolve their concerns quickly, and at the local level if possible.

So it is important, in the first instance, to talk with supervisors, lecturers or other relevant staff about your concerns. They will do their best to resolve the issues that you raise.

Sometimes concerns and complaints need to be managed beyond the local area, especially if the matter is of a serious nature, such as harassment. In these instances, you are advised to contact the University Complaints Coordinator, who will clarify your rights, responsibilities and options. All matters that are raised will be taken seriously by the University and will be treated with respect and confidentiality.

For more information please visit the Office of Leadership and Organisational Culture webpage: http://www.cdu.edu.au/oloc/

Contact details:Office of Leadership and Organisational Culture, Blue 1.36-40T: 08 8946 7738F: 08 8946 6725E: complaints@cdu.edu.au

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Legal assistance

Darwin Community Legal ServiceDarwin Community Legal Service provides free and confidential services such as legal advice, human rights, welfare rights and other common legal problems. You can talk confidentially about your legal problem with one of their volunteer lawyers. The lawyer will give you advice, suggest what action you can take and may in some cases help you to write a letter or prepare other simple documents.

Volunteer lawyers will be able to give you advice on most common legal problems.

Note: This service does not offer immigration advice or advice on criminal matters which require legal representation.

Address:Corner of Manton Street and Woods Street, Darwin City, Northern Territory

Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 9.00am-5.00pm

Wednesday: 9am – 1pmT: 08 8982 1111 / or Freecall: 1800 812 953F: 08 8982 1112E: info@dcls.org.auW: www.dcls.org.au

NT Legal CommissionThe NT Legal Commission provides free and confidential services to everyone and they will assist you with criminal, family, civil as well as immigration matters.

Address:6th floor, 9-11 Cavenagh Street, Darwin, Northern Territory

Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 9am – 4pmT: 08 8999 3000 or Freecall: 1800 019 343W: www.ntlac.nt.gov.au

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Permission to work

Most student visas have automatic work rights included but if yours does not, you can apply for permission to work online W: https://www.ecom.immi.gov.au/visas/html/questionaire/Students_Self_Selection_2_PTW.htm

You cannot apply for permission to work until the semester has begun officially. Once you have been granted permission to work, your visa will be changed to include the 8105 condition.

Note:• if you wish to apply online for permission to work, you

must first notify the International Student Advisor, who will notify the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) electronically that you have started your course

• you should allow at least one hour for the data-transfer to occur before you lodge your application on the internet

• DIAC’s systems will not allow you to lodge your application until this information is received

• you need a credit card to complete the application. If you do not have a credit card, please see the International Student Advisor for an application form

Work Visa ConditionsYou are permitted to work only 20 hours a week during the semester, but full-time during the official holiday breaks. Postgraduate research students may be permitted to work 20 hours a week and full-time during their nominated four week holiday only. Research students must also have their supervisor’s written permission to work.

Note: DIAC will cancel your visa immediately if you are found to be working more than 20 hours a week. A number of CDU students have had their visas cancelled and have returned home without completing their qualification because they have breached this condition. It is your responsibility to ensure that you comply with this visa condition.

Research students must discuss employment with their supervisor and receive written permission to work in order to avoid breaching conditions of candidature.

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VolunteeringStudents are permitted to undertake voluntary and unpaid work whilst holding a student visa. Please familiarise yourself with the rules by clicking on the link below.

DIAC: W: http://www.immi.gov.au/students/students/working_while_studying/conditions.htm

Permission to work

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Tax is usually deducted from your salary by your employer and paid to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) before you receive it. If you pay tax, you must lodge an ‘Income Tax Return’ with the ATO at the end of each financial year. The Australian financial year is from July 1 to June 30. You have from June 30 until October 31 to lodge an Income Tax Return with the ATO. You do this by completing a form contained in the Tax Pack, which is free and readily available in any newsagent from June each year. The Tax Pack will give you step-by-step instructions on how to fill out your tax form correctly. You can also seek assistance from a registered tax agent or accountant for a fee.

International students are considered to be residents for the purposes of taxation if their course of study extends beyond a period of six months.

Tax File Number (TFN)A TFN will assist you when:

• you open a bank account in Australia (not all banks require this)

• you are going to work in Australia• you are receiving money from an Australian source

You can pick up a Tax File Number Application form from the ATO or from the International Student Advisor. You will need to submit the Tax File Number Application form to the ATO, which is located at 24 Mitchell Street, Darwin.

You can also apply for a TFN online W: www.ato.gov.auIf you have any questions about the tax laws in Australia you should call the Australian Taxation Office on T: 13 28 61.

Important: Always keep your TFN secure as it is part of your new Australian identity and be careful before you give it to anyone. Some people and organisations, however, do require your TFN in order for them to offer you their services.

You can safely give your TFN to the following:• your employer• your bank/financial institution• your superannuation fund

Money and tax

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Money and tax

Salary/wagesYour pay will depend on the type of work that you are doing and often if you work during the night or on the weekends/public holidays you are entitled to ‘penalty rates’. However, this depends on your individual contract with your employer. As an international student you are entitled to the same working conditions as Australians and below are a couple of things to remember:

• it is illegal for employers to employ you on a trial basis with no pay

• you must pay tax off your earnings and you must submit a tax return at the end of each financial year

• the financial year runs from July 1 – June 30

• you must receive a pay slip – regardless of how often your work or how many hours

• you must advise your employer that you are a student visa holder and that you are only permitted to work for 20 hours a week during the semester

Opening a bank accountIt is not recommended to leave a big sum of cash at home or carry it around in Australia. It is very convenient and safe to buy goods and services using bank or credit cards in Australia. There are several banks off-campus which are open from 9:30am - 4:00pm Monday to Thursday and 9:30am – 5:00pm on Friday. The nearest off-campus banks are opposite to Casuarina Shopping Square. Banks at Casuarina Square include: Westpac Bank, Commonwealth Bank, National Australia Bank and ANZ Bank. Once you have opened an account in a bank, you will be issued with a bank card with a PIN (personal identification number) for your account and you will then be able to withdraw cash from any Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) at any time. If you open a bank account within the first weeks of your arrival, you will only need to present your passport to the bank to fulfil identification requirements. Some banks offer accounts specifically tailored to student needs (such as fee-free accounts where no account fees are charged). You will need to present your student card to open this type of account.

Once you have been issued a student card you need to take it into the bank. This stops your account from incurring fees.

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Money and tax

Automatic teller machine (ATM)You will find ATMs all over Darwin (there is even one located on Casuarina campus in building Red 1) and it is an easy way for you to withdraw money from your bank account. Most ATMs allow withdrawals from all major Australian banks and Credit Unions as well as a variety of international credit cards. It is important to note that if you use an ATM from a bank other than the one with which you have an account, you may be charged a fee (usually $2). It is worth remembering where your bank’s ATM is located in order to avoid such fees.

SuperannuationEveryone who works in Australia pays superannuation (currently at a rate of 9 per cent of your salary). International students may be able to receive their superannuation contribution back once they have left Australia permanently.

For more information, visit ATO W: www.ato.gov.au.

EFTPOSEFTPOS (electronic funds transfer at the point of sale): is available in many places. Instead of paying cash for goods and services, you swipe your access card, enter your PIN and the amount of your purchase is automatically taken from your bank account. Some shops will also allow you to withdraw cash with purchases. There is often a $10 minimum purchase on EFTPOS transactions in shops.

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Transport

BusesA local bus route has a stop on CDU campus and the service is free to students who produce their university student card.

For enquiries regarding bus routes and times, telephone Buslink on T: 8924 7666 or pick up a free timetable at one of the terminals, the bus, or from the Information Centre.

TaxisTaxi services are also available, but they can be expensive. All taxis operate on a set rate per kilometre as displayed on a meter. You can hail any unoccupied taxi from the street or make a booking with a taxi company.

Darwin Radio Taxis T: 131 008

Buying a carBuying a car can be one of the most important purchases you will make. Be careful, there are a lot of traps, especially if you are buying a used motor car. Find out how much you can afford for a car and make sure your budget includes money for the registration, stamp duty, fuel, repairs and insurance. It is important to do some market research to check out what is a fair price for the type of car you are looking to buy. A useful website for comparing used car prices can be found at W: www.redbook.com.au.

Buying from a licensed motor vehicle dealerAll Northern Territory motor vehicle dealers selling to the public must have a licence. This is easy to check as they must display their Licensed Motor Vehicle Dealers (LMVD) number. Buying through licensed traders may be more expensive than from a private seller but offers you greater protection. Motor Vehicle Registry W: www.nt.gov.au/transport

Buying privatelyYou may choose to buy a car you saw advertised in the local newspaper or on a community notice board. There is less protection when buying privately, so you need to be even more careful in making your purchase. Check if the car is encumbered or stolen by telephoning the Register of Encumbered Vehicles (REVS) on T: 1800 424 988 or 02 9633 6333. You can also do your own REVS check by visiting W: www.revs.nsw.gov.au. REVS needs the vehicle registration number, engine number and, if applicable, vehicle identification number (VIN) or chassis number. For a small fee you can be assured the vehicle will not be repossessed due to someone else’s debt.

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Transport

Driver’s licenceInternational students are only permitted to drive on their overseas licence for the first three months of their stay in Australia. After this time, you must change to a Northern Territory licence. To arrange a driver’s licence, go to the Motor Vehicle Registration (MVR) on Trower Road at Casuarina (across the road from the shopping centre).

Opening hours: Monday-Thursday from 8am – 4pm and Friday 8am – 5pm.

You may have to sit a theory test, and students from certain countries may be required to do a practical driving test as well.

W: www.nt.gov.au/transport/mvr/licensing

Buying a bicycleYou have the option of buying a used or a new bike. Look in Saturday’s NT News or the Trading Post newspaper for lists of used bikes for sale and new bikes can be purchased from a variety of places around Palmerston, Casuarina and Darwin. Look in the Yellow Pages phone book for addresses and contact details. It is highly recommended that you buy a strong lock for your bike, as they are often targets for thieves. If you are able to get around on your bike by using the bike-paths

you do not need to wear a helmet. However, if you choose to ride your bike on the road, it is a legal requirement that you wear a helmet at all times.

Refer to the university information on bicycle safety and security W: www.cdu.edu.au/fas/security.html.

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Insurance

Car insuranceIf you are planning to buy a car or you currently own a car, make sure that you have at least third party insurance cover (does not cover damage to your car but does cover damages to other cars involved). There are several insurance providers you can use, just call them and get a quote.

Note: If you are involved in an accident and you don’t have adequate cover, then you may have to pay for repairs to the other car and this can be very costly.

Contents (belongings) insuranceIt does not matter if you are staying in International House Darwin on campus or a flat on your own or sharing a house with friends, you should consider taking out private contents insurance to cover your personal belongings. The university’s insurance policies do not cover your personal belongings. Also, if you live in rented accommodation, your landlord is not responsible for replacing your damaged or stolen personal belongings.

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Keeping in touch

There are many different ways you can keep in touch with your new friends from Australia or your family and friends from back home; letters and postcards, emails, social media or telephone.

Post OfficeThere is a post office located in building Red 1 on Casuarina campus. You can post letters as well as buy postcards and a variety of gifts and novelty items. If you wish to have a safe and permanent postal address, you are able to rent a post box which allows all of your mail to be sent straight to campus and for you to pick it up at any time of the day.

Using emailA good way to keep in touch with fellow international students, as well as friends at home, is email. All students are issued with an email address once they are enrolled. All correspondence from the university will be sent to your official CDU email address and it is your responsibility to ensure that you check your email for any important information from the university. If you prefer correspondence from the university to be sent to your personal email address, you need to redirect your student email address. Just click on ‘Student Mail’ on StudentNet W: www.cdu.edu.au/studentnet and complete the Automatic Email Forwarding form.

Note: You must have your student card before you can access your email account – this will not be issued until your enrolment has been completed.

Social MediaCDU is represented on a number of social media which are updated regularly. Of particular interest to international students is the Facebook page ‘International Students @ Charles Darwin University’. CDU is also on Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn. Click any of the icons below for access.

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Keeping in touch

Telephone callsLocal calls: Dial the required number. All local calls are $0.50 from public telephones and less from your home phone.

STD calls: These are calls made to places outside the Darwin area and to interstate e.g. Sydney. Dial area code + number.

Public telephones: Public telephones accept coins and Telstra phone cards. These cards are widely available from newsagencies and post offices including the Post Office on Casuarina campus.

International calls: there are different ways of making international calls.

• Dial 0011+country code + area code (minus 0) + number (calls are charged per second)

• Dial 0018 + country code + area code (minus 0) + number (calls are charged in half hour blocks of time)

• Using pre-paid phone cards and dialing the company providing the service.

International telephone codes

Bangladesh 880 India 91

Belgium 32 Indonesia 62

Brunei 673 Ireland 353

Canada 1 Italy 39

China 86 Japan 81

Denmark 45 Macau 853

France 33 Malaysia 60

Germany 49 Mozambique 258

Greece 30 Myanmar 95

Hong Kong 852 Nepal 977

Netherlands 31 Pakistan 92

Philippines 63 Singapore 65

Sweden 46 Taiwan 886

Thailand 66 Vietnam 84

UK 44 USA 1

Telephone cardsThere is a variety of phone cards that offer discounted overseas calls. These cards are available from most newsagencies as well as post offices.

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The Educational Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000 places obligations and restrictions on students and on institutions for monitoring and reporting on student progress. The provisions of the Act are legally enforceable. More detailed information on the Act can be obtained from the following websites:

W: www.aei.dest.gov.au/AEI/ESOS

W: www.aei.dest.gov.au/AEI/ESOS/NationalCodeOfPractice2007

W: www.immi.gov.au/students

The Migration Act has introduced visa regulations that include automatic visa cancellation for non-compliance (including unsatisfactory academic progress), and authorised employees of DIAC can enter university premises under a monitoring warrant or search warrant.

ESOS Act 2000 | Migration Act and DIAC

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Under the ESOS Act, universities are required to report to DIAC any changes to a student’s enrolment including duration, study load, suspensions, deferment, approved leave, course changes or university transfers, and any non-compliance by individual overseas students. Pursuant to obligations under the ESOS Act 2000 and the National Code, CDU may also be required to make available any information you provide to us, to Commonwealth and state agencies and the fund manager of the ESOS Assurance Fund. This means that CDU is legally obliged to advise DIAC when international students have breached a condition of their visa. You can seek advice about your student visa conditions from the International Student Advisor. You can also go to DIAC at 40 Cavanagh Street in Darwin, to seek further information and advice.

Note: International students have a responsibility to ensure that they understand and comply with their visa conditions so please read the following information carefully. Student visa conditions and requirements.

Change of address or phone numberStudents must notify the university of any changes to their address and phone number. This is done by completing an Amendment to Personal Details form and handing it into the Information Centre or by changing you details online on ‘My Student Info’. The university must be able to contact students at any time. This is a requirement of your student visa.

Studying full-time (ESOS Act, National Code No. 30)At CDU full-time means 40 credit points a semester (or 80 credit points a year) for Higher Education courses and a minimum of 360 hours a semester for Vocational Educational and Training (VET) courses. However, student visa holders who are experiencing academic difficulties and wish to apply for a reduced study load must discuss this with the International Student Advisor. Remember that if you are permitted to study a reduced load, you may not be able to complete your course in time and you may need to extend your visa. If this happens, you will need to go through the additional expense of applying for an extension visa as well as ensuring that you have enough money to cover your living and other expenses for that extra time. If you are applying for permanent residency, DIAC will look at the registered duration of your course and not how long it took you to complete.

University’s obligation to report

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University’s obligation to report

Transferring to another universityIf you have this condition (8206) on your student visa, you must remain with your education provider (CDU) for the first six months of your main course of study. Only in exceptional circumstances will you be permitted to change education provider (transfer to another university) during that six-month period. If you feel that you have a legitimate reason to change provider, you will need to see the International Student Advisor for advice about your situation. A Letter of Release will be provided by the university only under exceptional circumstances. You will need to take the ‘Letter of Release’ to DIAC and fill out an application form to change provider. It is important to note that even if you have a ‘Letter of Release’ from CDU, DIAC will make the final decision to reject or approve your application. If you leave CDU and leave Darwin without this approval, DIAC will cancel your visa.

Maintain overseas student health coverStudents must maintain adequate arrangements for health insurance while in Australia. You must have purchased OSHC for the duration of your student visa.

Permission to work - no work rightsPlease refer to section ‘Permission to work’ earlier in this publication.

Meeting course requirementsYou must remain enrolled in a full-time registered course of study, and you must attend at least 80 per cent of your lectures, tutorials and work experience for each semester of the course. Students must submit all assignments and sit all required exams.

Changing your course or course transferYou must not change your course, or your thesis or research topic, unless the Department of Immigration and Citizenship has granted approval. To change course you must complete a new International Application form. The International Office will send you a letter of offer and terms of agreement if you have been accepted into the course. You should also check with the International Student Advisor as you may be required to change your visa. CDU is required to advise DIAC when students transfer to a different course.

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University’s obligation to report

Leave of absence (deferring studies)Students may not suspend or defer their studies on any grounds except illness, bereavement or ‘exceptional compassionate circumstances beyond the control of the student’. If you believe you have legitimate grounds to defer your studies after you have started your course, you must contact the International Student Advisor for advice about your situation.

Getting approval for leave of absenceGetting approval from your Faculty is not sufficient. Leave of absence is permitted for six months only. Students who defer their studies under these circumstances are obliged to leave Australia unless circumstances such as extreme illness, hospitalisation, or airline regulations regarding travel during pregnancy apply. If you are taking approved leave of absence, CDU must advise DIAC and provide you with a letter stating that you are on approved leave with the date you will recommence your studies. You may request this letter from the International Student Advisor. You may be refused re-entry to Australia or be required to apply for a new student visa if you do not have this letter. Should you fail to return to recommence your studies by this stated date, DIAC will be informed and your student visa will be cancelled.

Visa extensionIf you need to extend your student visa to complete your course, you will need to:

• make an appointment with the International Student Advisor who may issue you with an extension CoE

• extend your overseas student health cover with your provider; this must be done before submitting your visa application with DIAC and it must cover the duration of the new CoE apply for a visa extension online: W: https://www.ecom.immi.gov.au/visas/applyNow.do?form=SFS

Note:• extension CoEs will only be issued under special

circumstances• Swedish and Norwegian students are not required to have

health cover• you may be required to undertake another health check• you may have to show funds to have your visa extended

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Your safety

Security on campusFor your personal security you should try to avoid dark isolated areas late at night.

Use only well-lit paths and avoid shortcuts through deserted areas. Try travelling in pairs or in a group and carry your keys in your hand for quick access to your car or building. CDU adopts the UNI-SAFE program, which aims to alert students, staff and visitors of personal safety issues and as part of the program, aims to maximise awareness of those issues within the CDU community.

There is 24-hour campus security, which is available by contacting

T: 08 8946 7777 or Freecall 1800 646 501.

The Security Office is located in Orange 1 and is manned 24 hours a day. Security officers are available to escort students and staff after hours between buildings, campus car parks and local public transport points. To arrange for this service phone security on T: 08 8946 7777. A number of buildings have direct security access phones. Lift the handset and the phone will automatically contact security.

W: www.cdu.edu.au/fas/security.html

Emergency servicesIn case of an emergency, the fire brigade, police and/or ambulance, can all be contacted T: 000 from any phone. Be mindful that when your call is answered you need to tell the Operator which service you wish to be connected to.

Fire BrigadeEmergency calls ONLY Darwin region T: 08 8941 0000.

PoliceFor police assistance, 24 hours; Darwin region T: 08 8927 8888. For information and enquiries refer to the local telephone directory for your nearest police station or the appropriate department.

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Police and Australian laws

Australian policeThe Australian police, both state and federal, protect people and property as well as prevent and detect crimes and are not part of the Australian army. You will often find that police officers are very helpful but bear in mind that in certain situations they have the right to arrest people and take them to a police station. Should you find yourself in a situation where police are involved you will find that things run more smoothly if you cooperate with the officers while trying to remain calm and polite. You can easily cooperate with the police without giving up any of your rights.

If you are issued with a fine (e.g. for speeding), do not try to pay the police officer who issues the fine; this can be seen as bribery and is a serious offence. If a police officer has been particularly helpful to you in a difficult situation, do not offer them money or gifts; again this can be seen as bribery. Be courteous; politeness goes a long way.

How to get helpIf you have been the victim of a crime or if you are being followed or threatened, you can contact the police. If you do not feel comfortable contacting them yourself, you can ask someone you trust to do it on your behalf. Once you have contacted the police, they may send someone to have a chat with you and it is your right to have someone with you during the meeting. If you are worried about the language, let the police know and they will find a translator for you (free of charge).

Think Before initiativeThe Think Before campaign is a safety awareness initiative that aims to improve the safety of international students in Australia both in Australia and when travelling. For more information and safety tips go to W: www.thinkbefore.com.au.

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Police and Australian laws

Drugs and alcoholIn Australia it is illegal to use certain drugs and the police could prosecute you if you are found to be using or be in possession of an illegal substance. There are heavy penalties and you could risk imprisonment.

Alcohol is legal; however you must be 18 years of age before you are legally allowed to buy alcohol. If you plan on driving a car after drinking alcohol be aware that it is illegal to drive if your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is 0.05 or above. Not only will the police issue you with a fine and possible imprisonment, but you are also putting your own as well as others’ lives at risk. It is also illegal to be drunk or drink alcohol in some public places.

GamblingYou must be over 18 years of age to gamble legally in Australia. Gambling is legal only in licensed gaming facilities (e.g. casinos). No matter how innocent it may seem to have a game of poker (for money) at a friend’s house, it is still illegal and serious penalties apply.

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Introduction to Darwin

ClimateMost people find Darwin’s weather perfect; it has an average of 8.5 hours of sunlight a day and generally the weather is warm all year around. Due to its monsoonal climate, Darwin has two very different seasons: the dry and the wet. During the wet season (October-May), Darwin experiences heavy rainfall and some amazing thunderstorms. The temperatures remain between 30-33 degrees; however, the humidity is regularly above 70 per cent, so it seems much hotter than the dry where the humidity falls to around 40 per cent in the afternoons.

Sun protectionYou will come across the term ‘Slip, Slop, Slap’; slip on a shirt, slop on some sunscreen and slap on a hat and it is very important that you take this advice when venturing out in the sun. More than 380,000 Australians are diagnosed with skin cancer every year. Read more about protecting yourself from the sun by visiting Sun Smart.W: www.sunsmart.com.au

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Introduction to Darwin

BeachesDarwin is surrounded by beautiful beaches and it is tempting to go swimming on a hot day especially during the wet season. Unfortunately the water can be quite deceiving and is home to many, less friendly, Territorians. Box jelly fish (stingers) are large jelly fish with tentacles up to three meters long. They can be deadly and are very hard to see as they are almost invisible in the water. If you get stung, flood the affected area with vinegar which should minimise pain, then seek medical help immediately. Sometimes the tentacles fall off and are washed on shore, so it is wise to bring vinegar with you should you decide to go for a walk along the beach.

Authorities recommend that people do not swim in the sea during the wet season (October to May) and take precautions when swimming during the dry. Saltwater crocodiles (salties) are the world’s largest reptiles and thrive in the Northern Territory. While they don’t actively hunt humans, (they much prefer small reptiles, fish, turtles, wading birds or even wild pig or cattle), they are very territorial and will attack if provoked. Saltwater crocodiles do not solely live, as the name indicates, in saltwater, they are also very happy in freshwater, which is why they are often found in rivers and billabongs. It is possible to see salties up close and personal, without putting yourself in danger; visit the Darwin crocodile farm or go for

a cruise on the Adelaide River Queen and watch the jumping crocodiles. Generally, if you use your common sense while living in Darwin there is no reason why you cannot enjoy the beautiful beaches and waterholes around the NT.

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Shopping

Imported foodsMost supermarkets as well as some of the smaller grocery stores have imported foods. Coles and Woolworths have aisles dedicated to foods from all over the world, including Europe, Mexico, Asia, etc.

AsianAs mentioned above, most supermarkets have a large variety of Asian foods and due to the large Asian population in Darwin, you will find Asian foods in almost every shop.

HalalQuality Meats, which is located on 43 De Latour Street in Coconut Grove, sells Halal meats.

There are also a number of other supermarket products that are Halal, please look for the Halal logo on the packaging. You will find that there are plenty of opportunities to shop in Darwin, both in the shopping centres and at the many markets.

SupermarketsCDU is very close to Casuarina Shopping Square, which is the biggest shopping centre in the NT. You will find a large variety of shops at Casuarina Square including two of Australia’s largest supermarket chains. While some of you are used to being able to shop 24 hours a day, there are restricted opening hours for shops in Australia. The larger supermarkets, Coles and Woolworths, are generally open almost every day of the year until 10pm, but they will close earlier (or be closed altogether) on some public holidays. Please see stores for opening hours. You can also find large supermarkets in all of the suburbs as well as in Darwin City.

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Markets

Mindil Beach marketThis is probably Darwin’s best known market and is located at Mindil Beach, close to Darwin city. Mindil market is open every Thursday and Sunday night during the dry season and you will find food and craft stalls from all over the world. Many people go there just before sunset to sit on the beach and enjoy the scenery while eating their meal. The Mindil market can be very busy, so it is recommended that you go early, this way you have time to decide on what to eat for dinner and are able to find a nice spot on the grass or on the beach.

Note: You cannot buy fresh fruit and vegetables at Mindil market.

Parap marketThis market is open all year on Saturday mornings and you can buy fresh fruit and vegetables as well as take-away meals. There is also a variety of stalls that sell local craft and art. If you go mid-morning you will also be able to shop in some of the speciality shops located in Parap Village.

Rapid Creek market and Nightcliff marketThese two markets open on Sunday mornings and sell fresh produce as well as take-away meals.

Nightcliff market also has a variety of local craft stalls.

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Useful contacts

International Student Support, Charles Darwin UniversityBlue 1.1.21-34T: 08 8946 6288W: www.cdu.edu.au/ses/international-std.html

Equity Services, Charles Darwin UniversityBlue 1.1.21-34T: 08 8946 6288W: www.cdu.edu.au/ses

The Office of International Services, Charles Darwin UniversityOrange 1T: 08 8946 7215W: www.cdu.edu.au/international

Australian Taxation Office24 Mitchell Street, DarwinT: 132 863

Consumer Affairs Tenancy UnitFor queries or problems with house rental arrangementsT: 08 8999 1999

Department of Immigration and Citizenship40 Cavanagh Street, DarwinT: 131 1881F: 08 8981 6245W: www.immi.gov.au

Interpreter ServicesEthnic Affairs – NT Interpreter and Translator ServiceFree call: 1800 676 254

Darwin Community Legal ServiceT: 08 8982 1111 or Free call: 1800 812 953F: 08 8982 1112E: info@dcls.org.auW: www.dcls.org.au

NT Legal CommissionT: 08 8999 3000 or Free call: 1800 019 343W: www.ntlac.nt.gov.au

Motor Vehicle RegistrationEthos House, Trower Road(Opposite Casuarina Shopping Square)

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Notes

Disclaimer: Whileallreasonableeffortshavebeenmadetoensurethattheinformationinthispublicationiscorrect,matterscoveredbythispublicationaresubjecttochange.CharlesDarwinUniversitydoesnotassumeandherebydisclaimsanyexpressorimpliedliabilitywhatsoevertoanypartyforanylossordamagecausedbyerrororomissions,whethertheseerrorsoromissionsresultfromnegligence,accidentoranyothercause.

PublishedFebruary2012ICRICOSProviderNo.00300K(NT)|CRICOSProviderNo.03286A(NSW)IRTOProviderNo.0373

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Campus maps

Alice Springs campus

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Campus maps

Palmerston campus

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Campus maps

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E: internationalsupport@cdu.edu.auW: www.cdu.edu.au

FOR MORE INFORMATION

08 8946 6288

CASUARINA CAMPUSInformation CentreT: 1800 061 963 | F: 08 8946 6642Postal Address: Charles Darwin University, Darwin NT 0909Street Address: Charles Darwin University, Ellengowan Drive, Casuarina

Opening HoursM: 8.30am – 4.00pm | T: 8.30am – 4.00pm | W: 8.30am – 6.00pm | Th: 8.30am – 4.00pm | F: 8.30am – 3.00pm

Equity ServicesT: 08 8946 6288 | F: 08 8946 6654

Opening HoursM to Th: 8.30am – 4.00pm | F: 8.30am – 3.00pm

CRICOS Provider No. 00300K (NT) | CRICOS Provider No. 03286A (NSW) I RTO Provider No. 0373

38782 uniprintNT 2.12 N

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT GUIDE 2012

UNDERGRADUATE, POSTGRADUATE AND VET