Download - UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
-
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
1/29
-
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
2/29
Contents
Hello My Second Home- All about Brisbane 4 - 6- The University of Queensland 7 - 10
- UQMSA 11
- MASCA Queensland 12
Getting Started- The Checklist 14 - 17
- Its Time to Pack! 18 - 19
Brisbane Here We Are- Transportation in Brisbane 20
- Settling Down 21 - 26
- Jalan-jalan! 27 - 28
Who should I contact in Brisbane? 29
-
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
3/29
-
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
4/29
All about Brisbane
Hello My Second Home!
Beer known as Brissy or Bris Vegas especially among
Brisbanites, Brisbane is the most populous city in Queensland,
as well as the third most populous city in Australia. Its metro-
politan region extends along the Brisbane River, which is one
of its most iconic
landmarks.
Its consistent development is aributed to its wide range of
retails, Port of Brisbane, ecotourism, good working opportuni-
es and also comprehensive facilies.
Similar to the districts in Malaysia, there are many
geographical subdivisions in Brisbane, which are calledsuburbs. Among these are St Lucia (where University of
Queensland is located), Toowong, Indooroopilly, Sunnybank,
South Brisbane and West End.
To know more about Brisbanes suburbs, please refer to
hp://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/about-council/council-
informaon-and-rates/brisbane-suburbs/
The CultureWill I just come across Ang mohs (Caucasians) in Brissy??Although English is the universal language here, Brisbane is a mul-
cultural city just like Malaysia. About 30% of its populaon was born
overseas, parcularly from the United Kingdom, New Zealand, India
and China. In 2011, Malaysia was the foreign country with the 9th
most populaon in Brisbane, which was near 10,000.
Approximately 18% of the households in Brisbane speak a language
other than English, including Mandarin, Vietnamese, Cantonese,
Samoan and Spanish.
Among the variety of naons, Asian Australians are the largest ethnic
minority in Brisbane. Hong Kong and Taiwanese-born Australians pre-
dominate areas such as Sunnybank, Sunnybank Hills, Streon and
Robertson.
In fact, Sunnybank and its surrounding suburbs are known as TaiwanTown or Lile Taipei due to the large populaon of Taiwanese. On
the other hand, Asians from China, Malaysia and other Southeast
Asian countries are more commonly found in metropolitan areas.
Korean Australians also comprise a signicant proporon of
Brisbanites.
Founded:1824
State:Queensland (a.k.a. Sunshine
State)
Area:5950 km2
Populaon:2.2 millions (as in June
2012)
Time Zone:Australian Eastern Time
Zon (UTC+10:00)
Climate:Humid subtropical
http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/about-council/council-information-and-rates/brisbane-suburbs/http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/about-council/council-information-and-rates/brisbane-suburbs/http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/about-council/council-information-and-rates/brisbane-suburbs/http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/about-council/council-information-and-rates/brisbane-suburbs/http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/about-council/council-information-and-rates/brisbane-suburbs/http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/about-council/council-information-and-rates/brisbane-suburbs/http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/about-council/council-information-and-rates/brisbane-suburbs/http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/about-council/council-information-and-rates/brisbane-suburbs/http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/about-council/council-information-and-rates/brisbane-suburbs/http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/about-council/council-information-and-rates/brisbane-suburbs/http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/about-council/council-information-and-rates/brisbane-suburbs/http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/about-council/council-information-and-rates/brisbane-suburbs/http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/about-council/council-information-and-rates/brisbane-suburbs/http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/about-council/council-information-and-rates/brisbane-suburbs/ -
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
5/29
The Landmarks
Queenslanders
Interesng enough, Queenslander is
ambiguous it may refer to a person fromQueensland or, in this case, the characterisc
architecture style of Queensland. It is primarily
used for residence, disnguishing Brisbanes
suburbs from other capital cies. A
Queenslander is constructed using mber,
usually with vercal stumps that make the
main living spaces o the ground. Such
architecture style serves to cool the
building by means of venlaon and alsoto protect the building from termites and
other pests.
Wheel of Brisbane
The Wheel of Brisbane is a transportable
Ferris wheel erected at the northern en-
trance to South Bank Parklands, which is
just across the river from the Brisbane City.
It is about 60 meters tall with 42 air-
condioned capsules which can accommo-date up to six adults and two children
each. A ride of approximately 12 minutes
oers you an awesome 360 view across
the city.
Do You Know?
The designer of the Wheel of
Brisbane is Ronald Bussink, a
leading designer for giant
Ferris wheels in in Australia,
Canada, Paris, UK, USA and
many other places for over
25 years. The Eye on Malay-
sia, which used to operate in
Kuala Lumpur in 2007 and
then in Malacca from 2008
to 2010, is also one of his
masterpieces!
-
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
6/29
Brisbane River
With a length of 344km, Brisbane River is the longest river in the Southeast Queensland. Sit-
uated along the river are the many metropolitan suburbs of Brisbane, making it strategic to
travel from one suburb to another by ferry. There are by far 16 bridges crossing the Bris-
bane River, among which the more renowned ones are Story Bridge, Goodwill Bridge and
Victoria Bridge. 5 new bridges will be established in coming years for beer accessibility.
Story Bridge
The Story Bridge is a heritage-listed steel canlever
bridge,which is the longest in Australia. Connecng
Fortude Valley to Kangaroo Point, it allows passage
for vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians. It is named
aer John Douglas Story,a prominent public servant
in Brisbane.
Do You Know?
John Douglas Story entered the
Queensland Public Service in 1906.
He contributed to the establishment
of the University of Queensland and
was a government representative on
the University senate. UQ J. D. Sto-
ry Building (Building 61) was named
in his honour.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heritage-listedhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heritage-listedhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heritage-listedhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cantilever_bridgehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cantilever_bridgehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Douglas_Storyhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Douglas_Storyhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cantilever_bridgehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cantilever_bridgehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heritage-listed -
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
7/29
UQ is one of the members of the
Australias Group of Eight, as well
as Universitas 21, which is theleading global network of re-
search universies for the 21st
century. It is currently ranked in
the top 100 universies world-
wide owing to its contribuons to
the naon and the globe.
Meet The ChancellorsChancellor: Mr John Story
Deputy Chancellor: Adjunct Pro-fessor Mary Mahoney AO
President & Vice-Chancellor:
Professor Peter Hj
Do You Know?
UQ In 2013
World University Ranking
Top 1%
QS World University
Rankings
43
Australian Naonal Uni-
versity Ranking
3
Graduate Job Rate
81.6%
Awards Received
10785
With its 105th anniversary drawing nigh, the University of Queensland
(UQ) is the oldest and largest university in Queensland. It is also the
h oldest university in Australia, hence being regarded as a
Sandstone University.
ounded:
ecember 10, 1909
ommencement of Classes:
March 14, 1911
Moo:
ciena ac Labore
Lan for by means of knowledge
nd hard work)
Area:
,376 hectares
Main Campuses:
t Lucia
pswich
aon
erston
otal Students:
8,716
Undergraduate Students:
6,196
ostgraduate Students:
2,520
nternaonal Students:
1497 from more than 142
ountries
op 3 Internaonal Source
ountries:
hina
Malaysia
ingapore
op 3 Programs by Enrolment:
octor of Philosophy
achelor of Artsachelor of Engineering
nfo updated as in 2013
-
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
8/29
Services & Facilies
Student Centers
Each campus of UQ has a student center which provides a
comprehensive range of services for all students. In St Lucia
campus, the student center is situated at Level One, J.D. Story
Building, which is just directly at the back of Chancellors Bus
Stop. Itis openfrom 8.30am to 5.00pm on weekdays.
UQ Union Complex
Albeit its ocial name Relaxaon Block, this Building 21 of
UQ St Lucia campus is beer known as UQ Union Complex.
This place is touted the hub of UQ student life, as it houses a
variety of facilies including eateries, bank, ATMs, studentservices, photocopy and prinng shop and so on.
The student services here operate from 8.30am to 4.30pm on
weekdays, catering to the students as well as the stas
personal, career, welfare and learning issues. A UQ student is
automacally a member of the Union with free membership.
An interesng fact about UQ Union is that it does not rely on
contribuons from students at all to run, but sll provides
support and funding to UQ clubs and sociees.
Libraries
UQ has 15 libraries with up to 2 million volumes. 7 of them are located in St Lucia campus. An undergraduate
student can borrow a maximum of 30 items with a standard loan period of 28 days (subjected to the type of
item borrowed). There are ample studying spaces in each library equipped with computers for free usage.
There are also Group Rooms available for online booking at certain libraries in St Lucia campus.
-
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
9/29
Security
There is a 24-hour security on all campuses. Below are the emergency numbers:
Extension 53333for internal calls, or +61 7 3365 3333 if external
General enquiries +61 7 3365 1234
Free call 1800 800 123.
For more informaon please go to hp://www.pf.uq.edu.au/security.html .
Healthcare
Success can never be achieved sans healthy body. UQ al-
so priorizes its students well-being besides academic
excellence. There is a clinic which provides comprehen-
sive healthcare services in each campus. In St Lucia cam-
pus, there is also a dental clinic at UQ Union Complex.
For more informaon about UQ Healthcare please go to
hp://www.uq.edu.au/healthservice/.
UQ Landmarks
Great CourtSituated in the heart of the St Lucia campus is the Great Court, surrounded by cloister and buildings
constructed from sandstone, carved with historical scenes, the names of great thinkers and teachers, coats of
arms, grotesques and carvings of Australian ora and fauna.
The 2.5-hectare open space with a spacious meadow is always a favoured place for students and sta to sit or
even lie leisurely for a respite.
Do You Know?
The Great Court islisted on theQueensland HeritageRegister as well as onthe Register of theNational Trust ofQueensland.
http://www.pf.uq.edu.au/security.htmlhttp://www.pf.uq.edu.au/security.htmlhttp://www.uq.edu.au/healthservice/http://www.uq.edu.au/healthservice/http://www.uq.edu.au/healthservice/http://www.pf.uq.edu.au/security.html -
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
10/29
UQ Lakes
Apart from being one of the iconic features, this freshwater lake is also a home to a myriad of aquac lives,
birds and land animals. Some are nave and some are new species that originated beyond Australia. Added
to the beauty of the lake is a water fountain in the middle, making it a sight for sore eyes to behold.
Art Museum
UQ Art Museum was established in 1976, housing over
3,000 artworks collected by UQ itself since the 1940s. It
was formerly located in Forgan Smith Tower before being
relocated to James and Mary Emelia Mayne Centre
(Building 11) in St Lucia campus. It is the Queenslandssecond largest public art collecon. It is open to public
from 10am to 4pm on weekdays (closed on public holi-
days) with free entry.
R.D. Milns Anquity Museum
This museum was established in 1963, when a
Red-gure Ac amphora was bought from the
London aucon-house to facilitate the UQ program
of Classics and Ancient History. Housing several
thousands of classical Mediterranean anquies,
the museum serves to support UQ students and is
also open to the public with free admission from
9am to 5pm on weekdays. It is located at Michie
building (Building 9, Level 2).
Wanna have a virtual tour around UQ St Lucia campus beforehand?Go to hp://www.uq.edu.au/maps/index.html?menu=1.
http://www.uq.edu.au/maps/index.html?menu=1http://www.uq.edu.au/maps/index.html?menu=1 -
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
11/29
University of Queensland Malaysian Students Associaon
The University of Queensland Malaysian Students' Associaon (UQMSA) is an ocial stu-
dent body for UQ Malaysian students, aliated to the Malaysian Students Council of Aus-
tralia Queensland Division (MASCA Queensland) as well as UQ Union. UQMSA is also a non
-
prot associaon run by Malaysian students. Our acvies are based in the St. Lucia cam-pus. However, students from other UQ campuses and universies as well as non -students
are welcomed to join us too. In fact, we do have a few non-Malaysian members as well!
UQMSA primarily aims to unite UQ students from diverse backgrounds by promong Ma-
laysian culture through fun-lled social and cultural acvies. We also wish to bring a
piece of home to all members through our acvies whereby everyone gets to gather,
have fun and share the joy together. From welcoming barbeques to outdoor excursions to
Mamak Night when you have the chance to taste Malaysian authenc delicacies (Nasi le-
mak, Satay, Kari, Rendang, *SLURP!*), fun is on its way and homesickness goes away!
So lets come together in a true Malaysian spirit and enjoy our wide array of acvies
alongside the awesome Malaysian food. Just come to our booth at UQ Great Court on UQ
Market Day (26th Feb) and sign up as our member! Heaps of fun await you! Hope to see
you there!
At the meanme, check out on our updates on Facebook and give us a LIKE! :D
hps://www.facebook.com/UQMSA
Do check out on our blogspot as well (hp://uniqmsa.blogspot.com/). If you have any que-
ries always feel free to drop us a message on our Facebook page or email us
https://www.facebook.com/UQMSAhttps://www.facebook.com/UQMSAhttp://uniqmsa.blogspot.com/mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]://uniqmsa.blogspot.com/https://www.facebook.com/UQMSA -
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
12/29
Malaysian Students Organizaons
MASCA Queensland
MASCA stands for Malaysian Students
Council of Australia. It is a non-proted
student organizaon supported by the
Malaysian Students Department of
Australia (MSDA), which cares for theMalaysian students welfare in Australia.
MASCA Queensland is one of the many
MASCA state chapters all over Australia,
which are established in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia,
Tasmania, Western Australia, the Australian Capital Territory and
Northern Territory.
MASCA Queensland is akin to the backbone supporng and unifying 5aliated Malaysian students organizaons in this Sunshine State,
which comprise of UQMSA (University of Queensland Malaysian Stu-
dents Associaon), UMNO Queensland, BUMA (Bond University Ma-
laysian Associaon), QUT MySA (Queensland University of Technolo-
gy Malaysian Students Associaon) and PPMQ (Persatuan Pelajar
Muslim Queensland). Check out more about MASCA Queensland
on
hp://masca.org.au/index.php/state/qld and their recent updates onhps://www.facebook.com/MASCA.Queensland.
http://masca.org.au/index.php/state/qldhttps://www.facebook.com/MASCA.Queenslandhttps://www.facebook.com/MASCA.Queenslandhttp://masca.org.au/index.php/state/qld -
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
13/29
-
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
14/29
Things to be completed before youre ready to y!
Obtain Cercate of Enrolment (CoE) from the University
Apply for a student visa
Apply for Overseas Student Health Coverage (OSHC)
Arrange for a medical checkup
Check passport expiry date (at least 6 months)
Book ight cket, print ight inerary
Bring along some cash/travelers cheque with you
Sort out temporary/permanent accommodaon
Arrange for transport from airport
Have an Australian address available for lling up the incomingpassenger card
Bring along Australian adapters
Details and guidelines in the following pages.
-
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
15/29
Getting Ready to FLY!
But waitWhat Should I Do or Prepare?No worries! Here we go, step by step guide. =)
1. Conrmaon of Enrollment (eCOE)Do check with UQ or your agent for an electronic copy of your COE, which is needed for applicaon of a
student visa and for further reference.
2. Applying for Student VisaStudent visa can be applied through the Australian Government Immigraon and Protecon Border
Department (hp://www.immi.gov.au/). If you are applying through an agent your helpful agent will
help you with the applicaon. What you need to do is to submit all the required documents to your
agent before the due date as requested.
3. Arranging for a Medical CheckupAll visa applicants must meet Australias health requirements. If you need to undergo a medical
examinaon, the visa oce will contact you. Do not do any checkup unl you are asked to do so.
Note that there are only certain clinics in Malaysia with approved panel doctors where you can
perform medical checkup for visa applicaon.
Check out on these clinics on hp://www.immi.gov.au/Help/Locaons/Pages/Malaysia.aspx.
4. Flight BookingDo bear in mind that the Orientaon Week starts on 24th February (Monday), and that you will have to
take some me to sele down before welcoming a prey hecc (yet FUN!) uni life. So it is advisable to
arrive in Brisbane a few days or a week prior to the commencement of Orientaon.
If you need more guides on planning when to y o, please visit www.uq.edu.au/internaonal-guide/
when-to
-arrive.
There are a few opons of airlines to come to Brisbane. But do take note of the desnaon MAS will
reach Brisbane Internaonal Airport, whereas Airasia and Jetstar will reach Gold Coast Airport.
Dierent desnaons will have dierent ways of transportaon to reach your accommodaon, and
below are some guidance.
5. Booking Airport Pickup TransportUQ provides FREE pickup transport from Brisbane Internaonal Airport to your accommodaon for
new internaonal students. Please check for the terms and condions prior to booking on
hp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/accommodaon/airport
-recepon.
If your ight will be landing at Gold Coast Airport, you may resort to LINK Transfers, a shule bus
service that covers more than 60 suburbs. For more informaon or to make a booking, please go to
hp://www.linktransfers.com.au/.
http://www.immi.gov.au/Pages/Welcome.aspxhttp://www.immi.gov.au/Pages/Welcome.aspxhttp://www.immi.gov.au/Help/Locations/Pages/Malaysia.aspxhttp://www.immi.gov.au/Help/Locations/Pages/Malaysia.aspxhttp://c/Users/Leroy/Desktop/www.uq.edu.au/international-guide/when-to-arrivehttp://c/Users/Leroy/Desktop/www.uq.edu.au/international-guide/when-to-arrivehttp://c/Users/Leroy/Desktop/www.uq.edu.au/international-guide/when-to-arrivehttp://c/Users/Leroy/Desktop/www.uq.edu.au/international-guide/when-to-arrivehttp://c/Users/Leroy/Desktop/www.uq.edu.au/international-guide/when-to-arrivehttp://c/Users/Leroy/Desktop/www.uq.edu.au/international-guide/when-to-arrivehttp://c/Users/Leroy/Desktop/www.uq.edu.au/international-guide/when-to-arrivehttp://c/Users/Leroy/Desktop/www.uq.edu.au/international-guide/when-to-arrivehttp://c/Users/Leroy/Desktop/www.uq.edu.au/international-guide/when-to-arrivehttp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/accommodation/airport-receptionhttp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/accommodation/airport-receptionhttp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/accommodation/airport-receptionhttp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/accommodation/airport-receptionhttp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/accommodation/airport-receptionhttp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/accommodation/airport-receptionhttp://www.linktransfers.com.au/http://www.linktransfers.com.au/http://www.linktransfers.com.au/http://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/accommodation/airport-receptionhttp://c/Users/Leroy/Desktop/www.uq.edu.au/international-guide/when-to-arrivehttp://c/Users/Leroy/Desktop/www.uq.edu.au/international-guide/when-to-arrivehttp://www.immi.gov.au/Help/Locations/Pages/Malaysia.aspxhttp://www.immi.gov.au/Pages/Welcome.aspx -
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
16/29
6. Searching for Accommodaon
UQ does provide services for both on-campus and o-campus accommodaon (hp://www.uq.edu.au/
student-services/accommodaon). This link also provides informaon on the legal stus such as the
responsibilies as a tenant and a landlord that you should take note of. If you wish to stay on-campus, there
are 10 residenal colleges in St Lucia campus for you to choose from (hp://www.uq.edu.au/student-
services/st-lucia-residenal-colleges). Dierent colleges have dierent datelines for applicaons, so please
visit their respecve web pages for more details.
Staying on-campus is denitely more convenient to access to UQ facilies, but it also means a much higher
rate compared to o-campus accommodaon. If you are studying at St Lucia campus, renng a house in
St Lucia itself would be of great convenience. Otherwise, staying in other surrounding suburbs like Toowong,
Auchenower and Indooroopilly are fairly convenient too with the comprehensive network of public buses.
To look for houses to rent, please go to hp://www.realestate.com.au/rent.It is always recommendable to
inspect the house before renng, so you will get to know the actual condions and the exact locaon of the
house, as well as whether it is fully, parally or non-furnished. Some agents wont mind not having inspecons
but the responsibility of that decision will be on you.
http://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/accommodationhttp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/accommodationhttp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/accommodationhttp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/accommodationhttp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/accommodationhttp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/st-lucia-residential-collegeshttp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/st-lucia-residential-collegeshttp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/st-lucia-residential-collegeshttp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/st-lucia-residential-collegeshttp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/st-lucia-residential-collegeshttp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/st-lucia-residential-collegeshttp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/st-lucia-residential-collegeshttp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/st-lucia-residential-collegeshttp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/st-lucia-residential-collegeshttp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/st-lucia-residential-collegeshttp://www.realestate.com.au/renthttp://www.realestate.com.au/renthttp://www.realestate.com.au/renthttp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/st-lucia-residential-collegeshttp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/st-lucia-residential-collegeshttp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/accommodationhttp://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/accommodation -
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
17/29
7. Compleng You Enrolment
You will have to add your courses to complete your course registraon on mySI-net
(hps://www.sinet.uq.edu.au/).
You can nd the courses of your program and their codes on hp://www.uq.edu.au/study/.Here are a few
simple steps to follow:
1) On mySI-
net homepage, click Add Course for Semester 1, 2014.2) Enter the course code and press Enter.
3) Scroll to the boom, click Add Course.
4) Double check your chosen course before clicking Enrol me in this course.
5) Repeat for other courses.
Remember that you need to get this done by 14 March 2014. Also update your personal details under
the category Personal on the Menu on the le.
8. Classes Sign-on on mySI-net
For certain classes of certain courses, you will be automacally assigned to a class of a xed me. For the rest,
you need to register (sign-on) for classes according to your preferred me. The sign-on is usually open three
to four weeks before semester begins. However before the sign-on is available, you have to arrange your
metable beforehand.
1) Check the me of classes of your courses on mySI-net. Click Courses on Menu Click Courses
Timetable and Informaon Key in course code, press Enter Tick the box of your course Click Next
Step. You will then nd a table with all the informaon regarding your classes.
2) Go to UQRota to arrange your classes (hps://www.uqrota.net/). Click Add Course on your right,and you can start arranging your metable which best suits you.
3) Keep an eye on the sign-on date on mySI-net. You will see a hypertext Signon on the homepage of
mySI-net when it is almost available. Click it and check for the date and me of the courses that you
need to sign on.
4) Upon signing on, click Signon and Signon Available. Then ck the box in the row of your preferred
class, and click Save.
Friendly ReminderYou are advised to sign on right when it is open, since your preferred classes may be full withinminutes! And do bear in mind that the sign-on time is Brisbanes time. So if the sign-on time is 9:30am,unless you are already in Brisbane, please make sure you wake up early on that day to sign on at7:30am!
https://www.sinet.uq.edu.au/ps/uqsinetsignin.htmlhttps://www.sinet.uq.edu.au/ps/uqsinetsignin.htmlhttp://www.uq.edu.au/study/http://www.uq.edu.au/study/https://www.uqrota.net/%E2%80%8Ehttps://www.uqrota.net/%E2%80%8Ehttp://www.uq.edu.au/study/https://www.sinet.uq.edu.au/ps/uqsinetsignin.html -
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
18/29
Malaysian Identity Card
Valid Passport
Flight Ticket
Australian adapter(s) & Malaysian extension plug(s)
Documents: eCOE & relevant acceptance letter, transcripts, driving license,others
Clothes
You may find it scorching hot at noon but freezing cold at night especially
when the piercing cold wind blows. This also happens during some winter
days. You should also have come across some news regarding the extreme-
ly high temperature in Brissy this summer, in fact reaching 50C! So do pack
some thin clothes for hot weather (especially if you wish to stay for summer)
and some thick and windproof winter clothes.
Footwear
Comfortable ones are especially important, since walking will be part of
your daily routines in Australia. For girls, fully enclosed shoes and boots are
recommendable for winter. However remember to clean your shoes thorough-
ly before entering Australia. The government is very particular in any possibil-
ities of bringing in soil contamination that could adversely affect Australias
ecosystem.
GOOD Umbrella
If possible, look for one with strong metal ribs. Wind in Australia can be
very strong and destructive to your umbrellas!
Enough Stationery (Stationery in Australia can be costly!)
Medicines (if necessary)
Mobile Phone, laptop and other gadgets (Dont think millennials will forget
about these :P)
-
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
19/29
Personal necessities (e.g. cutlery, containers, sunscreen etc.)
Enough CASH (both Australian dollars and Malaysian Ringgit)
Heres a rough estimation of your monthly expenses, but bear in mind
that it varies from person to person.
Category Weekly Expenses(AUS ) Monthly Expens-es (AUS )Rental (Includingwater, electricity
and gas)
200 800
Mobile phone &
Internet20 80
Transportation 15 60
Food & Groceries 50 200
Entertainment 30 120
Total 315 1260
For more information on things allowed and prohibited to
bring into Australia,
please refer to http://www.daff.gov.au/biosecurity/travel/cant
-take.
http://www.daff.gov.au/biosecurity/travel/cant-takehttp://www.daff.gov.au/biosecurity/travel/cant-takehttp://www.daff.gov.au/biosecurity/travel/cant-takehttp://www.daff.gov.au/biosecurity/travel/cant-takehttp://www.daff.gov.au/biosecurity/travel/cant-take -
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
20/29
Brisbane Here We Are!!
Do You Know?
CityCat doesnt get its
name from the animal
cat, but catamaran, a
vessel consisting of two
parallel hulls of equal
size.
Tickeng and Fare
Brisbane region is divided into 23 zones, which radiate out in concentric rings
from the centre of Brisbane. These zones are used to determine the travel
fare for passengers. You can travel for FREE within an hour aer you touch on
the card (This is called Connuaon). Another good thing is you can enjoy
FREE transport for the rest of the week (Monday is considered the rst day of
the week) aer using your gocard for 9 mes in that week!
The fares for each zone are listed on hp://translink.com.au/ckets-and-
fares/fares/current-fares.
No Idea on How to Travel Around?No worries! TransLink provides a very useful journey planner
to help you gure out the various possible ways to reach your
desnaon. Go tohp://jp.translink.com.au/travel-
informaon/journey-planner.
Seling DownThe rst few weeks might be grueling for you to establish yourself in a whole new
environment. Fear not. Here are some guidelines so you will have some inkling of what to
start o with.
But before this, you will need to have some ideas of the transportaon in Brisbane in orderto travel around. Public transportaon here is provided by TransLink, a division within the
Department of Transport and Main Roads. There are 3 types of public transport: buses,
trains and ferries (a.k.a. CityCat). You can travel by all these transport with one single card,
known as gocard.
What If Ive Forgoen My gocard?
You will have to buy a paper cket on the bus or ferry or train staon.
You will be charged normal adult price, which is twice the concession
price. So always remember to bring your gocard along with you!
http://translink.com.au/tickets-and-fares/fares/current-fareshttp://translink.com.au/tickets-and-fares/fares/current-fareshttp://translink.com.au/tickets-and-fares/fares/current-fareshttp://translink.com.au/tickets-and-fares/fares/current-fareshttp://translink.com.au/tickets-and-fares/fares/current-fareshttp://translink.com.au/tickets-and-fares/fares/current-fareshttp://translink.com.au/tickets-and-fares/fares/current-fareshttp://translink.com.au/tickets-and-fares/fares/current-fareshttp://jp.translink.com.au/travel-information/journey-plannerhttp://jp.translink.com.au/travel-information/journey-plannerhttp://jp.translink.com.au/travel-information/journey-plannerhttp://jp.translink.com.au/travel-information/journey-plannerhttp://jp.translink.com.au/travel-information/journey-plannerhttp://jp.translink.com.au/travel-information/journey-plannerhttp://jp.translink.com.au/travel-information/journey-plannerhttp://translink.com.au/tickets-and-fares/fares/current-fareshttp://translink.com.au/tickets-and-fares/fares/current-fares -
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
21/29
Now you have got some ideas on how to travel around. :)
2. Buy a Concession Go Card
Now youve got your UQ student ID, and you are eligible for a green gocard with concession price, which
means HALVED the normal adult fare. *HOORAY!* You can buy a gocard at many of the Queensland Rail
staons, some busway staons, selected newsagents and 7-Eleven stores where you see the buy symbol.
The most convenient locaon would be the UQ Newsagency beside Co-op Bookshop, opposite to Common-
wealth Bank in St Lucia campus. Remember to show your student ID!
* Do register your go card online at hps://gocard.translink.com.au/webx/.You will then be able to check
your travel history and to top up your card via bank account online. Just in case if you accidentally lose your
card, you can immediately transfer your remaining credit to another registered gocard. This will render
your previous card unusable, and you wont suer any lose. A win-win situaon it is!
3. Open a Bank Account
There are several banks that you can choose from, including Com-
monwealth Bank, ANZ (Australia and New Zealand Banking Group
Limited), NAB (Naonal Australia Bank) and Westpac. The rst two
are more recommendable due to their plethora of ATMs and
branches especially in the centre of Brisbane city. There are also
Commonwealth Bank and ANZ branches at UQ St Lucia campus,
which conveniences your applicaon for a bank account. Below are
the links of each bank:
Commonwealth Bank: hps://www.commbank.com.au/
ANZ: hp://www.anz.com/personal/
NAB: hp://www.nab.com.au/
Westpac: hp://www.westpac.com.au/
1. Get Your Student Card
It is advisable to get your student card on the rst day of Orientaon
Week, since you need your student ID for many other applicaons.
You can collect it at Duhig Building (Building 2), St Lucia campus from8:00am to 4:45pm on weekdays. You will have to bring along your
passport and you COE in order to collect your student card.
https://gocard.translink.com.au/webtix/https://www.commbank.com.au/https://www.commbank.com.au/http://www.anz.com/personal/http://www.anz.com/personal/http://www.nab.com.au/http://www.nab.com.au/http://www.westpac.com.au/http://www.westpac.com.au/http://www.westpac.com.au/http://www.nab.com.au/http://www.anz.com/personal/https://www.commbank.com.au/https://gocard.translink.com.au/webtix/ -
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
22/29
5. Seng Up Home Internet
Internet is a must for every uni student. If your accommodaon does not provide internet, you will
have to set up on on your own. Most telecommunicaon companies do provide ADSL internet ser-
vices. Many students opt for Optus for its commonly touted beer recepon, or TPG for its less pricey
bundle packages (ADSL + home phone). Their stores are available in Toowong, Indooroopilly and Bris-
bane CBD. You may also apply online on their websites.
4. Get a Mobile Sim Card
A mobile number is needed not only to let you contact your family as soon as
possible, but also when applying other stu such as bank account. There are a
few opons of telecommunicaon companies that you may choose from, and
the more commonly used ones are Vodafone, Optus, Telstra, TPG and Virgin
Mobile. Just like in Malaysia, there are postpaid and prepaid plans. If you wish to purchase a brand new
phone, then you would have to resort to postpaid plans, and many people would recommend Vodafone as it
provides relavely cheaper packages. You can also sign up for postpaid plan without a phone. Otherwise a
prepaid sim card will do too.
Something interesng about Australian mobile is that what you pay for is not equivalent to
the value of credit given to you. With several tens dollars paid, you are entled for credit
worth a few hundred dollars for calling and texng, as well as mobile data in one month.
Another good point is that calling to people using the same provider is FOC! About the pric-
es? Well, it can have a wide range, depending on which package you opt for, and whether it
comes with a phone or not. If it comes with a phone, the cheapest would be around $30 per
month, and this can go up to more than $50 or $60. Without a phone, the cheapest plan
would be TPG, which comes with its internet and home phone bundle package, and this mobile plan costsonly $15 per month! However if you do not purchase this bundle package under TPG, you will not be entled
for such a cheap deal. So do check out properly on each and every mobile company and their packages. Be-
low are the links to each companys website:
Vodafone: hp://www.vodafone.com.au/personal
* Friendly Reminder: Vodafone is also available in UK, so do search for Australias one carefully!
Optus: hps://www.optus.com.au/
Telstra: hp://www.telstra.com.au/
TPG: hp://www.tpg.com.au/
Virgin Mobile: hp://www.virginmobile.com.au/
*Again, a friendly reminder, Virgin Mobile has another network coverage in US,
so be careful when searching online aight!
There are Vodafone and Optus stalls at Toowong Village, a shopping center in
Toowong, just about 10 minutes away from UQ St Lucia by bus. Indooroopilly and
http://www.vodafone.com.au/personalhttp://www.vodafone.com.au/personalhttps://www.optus.com.au/https://www.optus.com.au/http://www.telstra.com.au/http://www.telstra.com.au/http://www.tpg.com.au/http://www.tpg.com.au/http://www.virginmobile.com.au/http://www.virginmobile.com.au/http://www.virginmobile.com.au/http://www.tpg.com.au/http://www.telstra.com.au/https://www.optus.com.au/http://www.vodafone.com.au/personal -
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
23/29
6. Ordering OSHC Worldcare Card Online
An Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) card provides you with the
basic cover for medical and hospital care costs in Australia throughout
the valid duraon of your student visa. To nd out more and to order
your card, please go to hps://www.oshcallianzassistance.com.au/.The
card will be sent to your address in Brisbane for your convenience.
7. Shopping for Groceries and Household Utensils
Aer dealing with so many applicaons, its me to make sure that you have all your daily necessies and
that your home pantry has enough food to feed yourself! There are 3 supermarkets in Brisbane with many
chains all over Australia Coles, Woolworths and Aldi. The rst two can be found in more locaons, such as
Toowong, Brisbane CBD, Indooroopilly, West End and Sunnybank. There might also be small grocery stores
nearby residence in certain suburbs.
An example is the St Lucia Supermarket which sells some Asian groceries too. Cheaper household utensils
can be found at Kmart in Toowong, Indooroopilly and Sunnybank.
If you wish to look for Asian groceries, there are several Asian supermarkets around Brisbane CBD such as
Formosa, Koz and Hanaro. However, Chinatowns in Brisbane Sunnybank and Fortude Valley certainly pro-
vide more opons. Some examples are Yuens Market (at both Sunnybank and Fortude Valley), WELCOME
Fresh Food Supermarket (Sunnybank), Garboro Asian Supermarket (Fortude Valley) and Burlington Super-
market (Fortude Valley).
There is also a morning market selling vegetables, fruits, meat and also breakfast every Saturday, from 8amto 12noon at Davis Park, West End. The most convenient way to get there is by CityCat.
* Friendly ps for Muslim friends: You can get Halal food from Yuens Market and Halal meat from Ismails
Butcher at Fortude Valley. Nandos here are selling Halal meat too. For more guidelines on seeking Halal
food in Brisbane please refer to hp://www.halalfoodbrisbane.com/?content=groceries.
https://www.oshcallianzassistance.com.au/https://www.oshcallianzassistance.com.au/http://www.halalfoodbrisbane.com/?content=grocerieshttp://www.halalfoodbrisbane.com/?content=grocerieshttp://www.halalfoodbrisbane.com/?content=grocerieshttps://www.oshcallianzassistance.com.au/ -
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
24/29
-
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
25/29
StLucia&Su
rroundingSuburbs
-
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
26/29
UQ
FacilitiesMap
-
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
27/29
When everything has been settled ts time toJalan-jalan
2. Gold Coast
Being the second most populous city in the state and the sixth most
populous city in the country, Gold Coast is a coastal city on the east
coast of Australia. Its surng beaches, canal and waterway systems,
theme parks, nightlife, and rainforest hinterland make it a fascinang
aracon for tourists.
There are many beaches along the coast, including Surfers Paradise,
Mermaid Beach, Rainbow Bay, Main Beach and so on. Besides vis-
ing beaches for the breathtaking views, you will also come acrossshops and skyscrapers just beside the beaches. A must-go place for
shopaholics is Harbour Town, the rst and largest brand direct outlet
shopping centre in Australia.
Whereabouts to travel
1. Brisbane Central Business District (Brisbane CBD)
This is the heart of Brisbane as well as Queensland, which is on the northern
bank of Brisbane River. Alongside its densely concentrated buildings, there
are also several parks such as Roma Street Parkland, City Botanic Garden
and Wickham Park. The city can get very crowded on Friday nights and
whenever there are Australian fesve celebraons. The more happening
streets in the city are Adelaide Street, Queen Street and Elizabeth Street.
Shopping malls, bouques, eateries, coee shops and Asian marts are all
around. A true heaven for shopaholics and food lovers!
* Friendly Reminder: Shops operated by Aussies (except for those for night-
life) are usually closed around 4-5pm. They will only extend the opening
hours to no later than 7 or 9pm on Thursday or Friday. So never ever do
your shopping in late evening! Also do check the business hours if you wish
to go late so you wont be let down. Markets and restaurants run by Asians
are open unl nighme.
-
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
28/29
3. Sunshine Coast
About 2-hour drive to the north of Gold Coast will lead
you to Sunshine Coast, also known as the lile brother
of Gold Coast. This is an urban area with more laid-back
lifestyle. Its prisne beaches and nature are the main
capvaon for tourism. Interesng places include
Noosa, Coolum, Maroochydore and Mooloolaba.
4. Mount Coot-tha
Mount Coo-tha, located 6km to the west of Bris-
bane CBD, is 287 meters above sea level, there-
fore the highest peak in Brisbane. Due to its high
altude, it is a favoured place for Brisbane look-
out, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of
Brisbane city. Apart from the lookout point, oth-
er places of aracon are Mount Coot-tha Bo-
tanic Gardens, the Cosmic Planetarium and Her-barium.
5.
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Wish to have a close look of the Australian wildlife?
Then this is where you should go! Lone Pine was found-
ed in 1927 and is the world's oldest and largest koala
sanctuary. It is located in the suburb of Fig Tree Pocket.
Besides koalas, you will also be able to see kangaroos,
platypus, other mammals as well as a myriad of birds
and reples.
-
8/13/2019 UQMSA Survival Guide 2014
29/29