www.cquni.edu.

au

ROCKHAMPTON

INTERNATIONAL

STUDENTS
GUIDE

Student support services for international

students living in Rockhampton

BE WHAT YOU WANT TO BE

Contents
Essential information about living and studying
in Rockhampton
Rockhampton the City
Climate
Entertainment, sport and recreation
Shopping

Grievance procedures
1

11

Student Ombudsman (Building 37 level 1 room 1.08)

CQUniversity Student Association (Building 65)
Independent Dispute Resolution Services
Student support services
International Student Support Officer (Building 31)
Orientation
Academic study support
Library information services (Building 10)
ITD media services (Building 32)
Mathematics Learning Centre (Building 32)
Information Technology (Building 19)
Student Support Centre (Building 31)

12

Preparing for your departure to Australia

Bringing your family to Australia
Schooling/child care for dependent children

14

What to bring
Clothing
Other items
What not to bring

15

About CQUniversity Australia

Accommodation
On-campus living Capricornia College
Off-campus living Unilodge
Off-campus independent living

Telephone and postal services

Health services
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
How to make an OSHC claim
Extra private health insurance

Money and banking

Australian currency
Banking

Religious and spiritual information

CQUniversity Inter-Faith Sacred Garden

Travel checklist
Helpful telephone numbers

16

Transport
Public transport
Private transport
Buying a car
Driving in Queensland

Arriving in Australia
A week before you leave
When to arrive
Arriving at Brisbane International Airport
Adjusting to a new environment

17

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

Our contact details

19

Student visa compliance conditions

Payment of academic tuition fees
Enrolment
Satisfactory academic progression
Change of provider
The two fails in a course rule
Deferral of studies
Change of address
Reporting to DIAC

10
Bring this international student guide with you. It
contains contact details of many organisations that
will help you during your time in Australia.

CQUniversitys programs are offered to international students in accordance with the Australian Government Education Services
for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000. Further details are available at: www.cqu.edu.au/international
CRICOS Provider Codes QLD 00219C; NSW 01315F; VIC 01624D

Essential information about living and studying

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

Rockhampton the city

Rockhampton, situated on the Tropic of Capricorn in Central
Queensland, is a fantastic destination. There are a multitude
of things to see and do in the diverse Capricorn region. The
real treasures of the Capricorn region are the friendly people,
the genuine country hospitality and laid back lifestyle where
there is always time to say gday. Affectionately known as
Rocky, our progressive regional city is just 30 minutes drive
inland from the Pacific Ocean with safe sandy beaches
and beautiful islands dotted along the Capricorn Coast.
Rockhampton is situated on Queenslands largest river, the
Fitzroy. The Central Queensland district has a population in
excess of 150 000 and Rockhampton City a population at
approximately 77 800.

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

Entertainment, sport and recreation

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

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

About CQUniversity
CQUniversity is one of Australias top-rated and most
sought-after universities. Almost half of its 20 000 students
are international, representing over 100 countries at
CQUniversity campuses in the heart of Sydney, Melbourne,
Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Headquartered in Rockhampton,
Queensland with regional campuses throughout the state.
Students succeed because of the five-star quality and
relevancy of teaching, learning, research, community programs
and services. CQUniversitys personalised learning support,
collaborative partnerships and dedicated staff provide pathways
for people anywhere, with different learning styles to achieve,
thrive and succeed. In fact, our students rank 10% higher than the
national average.

CQUniversity Rockhampton is set on spacious grounds within

a 150-hectare site. The university reflects multicultural
Australia by warmly welcoming its international students and
recognising the invaluable contribution these students make
to the campus life and the community.

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

On-campus living
Rockhampton Student Residence
We recommend you stay on-campus at the Universitys
Rockhampton Student Residence. The Student Residence is
so much more than just a place to stay. Living at the student
residence will better ensure you have the full university
experience.
The residence provides a safe, secure, comfortable and
supportive environment located a short walking distance
to lectures, library and sporting facilities. You will be
welcomed into an academic residential community of 300
undergraduate and postgraduate students from different
places in Australia and other parts of the world. While it is
expected college members will have a serious commitment
to their academic program there will be many opportunities
for social and sporting activities. You will have your own
study/bedroom supplied with desk, chair, built-in wardrobe,
fan, bookcase and curtains. Each residential building has
its own shared toilet/bathroom facilities, laundry and
small kitchenette. The majority of meals are cafeteria-style
(vegetarian meals are available) with formal residence,
house and special dinners are held occasionally. Put simply,
staying at the student residence is great!
For more information and application
details please contact:
Rockhampton Student Residence
CQUniversity
Bruce Highway
North Rockhampton Qld 4702
AUSTRALIA
Telephone: + 61 7 4930 9766
Fax: + 61 7 4930 6581
Email: studentresidences@cqu.edu.au
Website: www.cqu.edu.au/about-us/
locations/rockhampton/student-residence

Off-campus living Unilodge

The Unilodge Rockhampton complex is set in landscaped
gardens and consists of 26 three (3) bedroom and 42 two (2)
bedroom self-catered townhouses.
Each townhouse has living and kitchen areas with residents
making their own arrangements concerning cost and
preparation of meals. It is situated a considerable distance
from the university (approximately seven kilometres) and
is serviced by hourly bus transport to the university during
weekdays. The last weekday bus service from the university
to the Unilodge complex is at 6 pm. There is no evening
or weekend bus transport from Unilodge. All units are air
conditioned with quality fittings and furniture throughout.
Outdoor sporting facilities as well as computer laboratory
with Internet access are available.

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

Tenancy agreements are usually for a fixed amount of time

(such as 6 or 12 months). This agreement is a legal document
which sets out the conditions of rent, dates when the
agreement starts and ends and the terms of the agreement.
You should not sign any legal document or pay a bond until
you have read and understood all the terms and conditions.
Friendly staff are on hand to assist you read through rental
agreements if you seek clarification.
When you start a tenancy, you will need to:
Inspect the premises and contents.
Sign a written tenancy agreement (a legal document).

Off-campus independent living

If you prefer to rent a house or unit with other students, this
option is available to you and allows you to choose who
you will share with. It takes considerable time to inspect
houses and units and make arrangements regarding your
accommodation. Therefore it is important you arrive in
Rockhampton at least one week prior to the commencement of
your orientation program.
Other ways to obtain independent accommodation after your
arrival in Rockhampton are:
read university notice boards
check the Student Association accommodation database
check the Accommodation to Let section in Saturdays
edition of the local newspaper, The Morning Bulletin
The approximate cost of the most common type of furnished
accommodation close to the university is either
i. AUD$120/AUD$150 per person per week occupying three/
four/five bedroom houses or
ii. AUD$100/AUD$130 per person per week occupying one/
two bedroom flats/units. A bond fee applies which needs
to be paid at the time of signing the lease. This usually
costs about four times the weekly rental.
In addition to weekly rental, each tenant shares the cost of
electricity, gas and telephone services. Each tenant has his/
her own private bedroom, sharing bathroom, kitchen and
communal living areas. It is not possible to arrange this type
of accommodation until after your arrival in Rockhampton,
as you must inspect the accommodation personally prior to
signing a tenancy agreement.

Complete an Entry Condition Report (record any damage to

the property and contents that has been done by previous
tenants. Keep a copy of your report and forward a second
copy to the landlord or real estate agent).
Sign a Bond Lodgement form and pay the bond (usually
equivalent to four weeks rent). Everyone who contributes
to the bond should be named on the Bond Lodgement form
and should sign it so that you have a record of the amount
each person has paid.
The Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) holds the bond
in trust while you live in the house/unit, and pays it back to
you when you move out (provided there is no disagreement
or damage to the premises). The RTA will send you a
notice (called an Official Receipt) to let you know they
have received your bond. Make sure you keep this notice.
The receipt has your Rental Bond Number on it, you will
need to use this number if you contact the RTA about your
bond. If you do not receive an Official Receipt within a few
weeks, it is a good idea to ring the RTA to check whether
they have received your bond money. The landlord/real
estate agent is required by law to send your bond to the
RTA. If they dont they have breached the law and they
could be fined.
Obtain and keep receipts for every payment you make.
Check the requirements of your contract for giving notice
of your intention to move out at the end of your tenancy
agreement. Complete a Notice of Intention to Leave and
give to your landlord or real estate agent at least 14 days
prior to the end date of your tenancy agreement.
Website: www.rta.qld.gov.au

Telephone and postal services

There are public telephones, in shopping centres and various
other public places around the city. These phones take
coins or you can make use of a prepaid phone card. There
are a variety of prepaid phone cards and prepaid credit
facilities for your mobile phone available at the Post Office
on-campus. Prepaid phone cards with a card pin number
can be used on most phones (public phones and at private
residences). International telephone calls can be very
expensive. Making use of prepaid phone cards avoids the
risk of running up expensive telephone accounts.
Most rental houses or units have existing telephone lines.
Check the cost of this when you arrive to make sure you have
the most current and up-to-date information. In addition to the
cost of calls, handset and line rental is also payable.

To make arrangements to have a Telstra phone connection

in your name phone Telstra Residential Customer Centre on:
13 22 00. Telstra will make a credit assessment to determine
if you are eligible for STD and ISD connection in addition
to local call connection. It is important to be aware the
person who applies for a phone connection is held financially
responsible for payment of all calls made from that phone. So
it is important to know who will have access to your phone.
Australia Post has a convenient location in the Commercial
Centre (Building 65) on campus. It is open 9 am to 5 pm
Monday to Friday. All letter and parcel postal services within
Australia and overseas are available from this post office
as well as the purchase of money orders and phone cards.
Payment of electricity, gas and telephone accounts can also
be made here.

Health services
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
International students and their families must obtain health
insurance through the Overseas Student Health Cover Scheme
(OSHC). Medibank Private is the preferred OSHC provider for
CQUniversity. The Australian Department of Immigration and
Citizenship required that you have Overseas Student Health
Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of your student visa. The
Overseas Student Health Cover amount is estimated based on
your expected visa duration. You will be required to finalise
payment of any variation to this amount when you arrive on
campus to enrol.
If you have a health problem, make an appointment to see
a doctor (sometimes called a medical practitioner) with
one of the suburban medical practices (look under medical
practitioners in the telephone book Yellow Pages section
for contact details). Your ISSO has a listing of General
Practitioners (GPs) to refer you to or phone 1300 361 046. If
you require emergency medical attention after hours go to
the Accident and Emergency Section of one of the following
hospitals situated in south Rockhampton:
Rockhampton Hospital,
Canning Street
Telephone +61 7 4920 6211
Mater Hospital
Ward Street
Telephone +61 7 4931 3313
Hillcrest Hospital
Talford Street
Telephone +61 7 4932 1321
OSHC will contribute towards the cost of medical and hospital
care you may need while studying in Australia. The OSHC
scheme covers you for 85% of the recommended government
scheduled fee for a doctors visit (including a specialist doctor)
and pathology and x-ray services. You pay the difference.
For medical services while you are an admitted patient at
a hospital, OSHC will pay 100% of the schedule fee. If the
doctor charges more than the schedule fee, you pay the
difference. OSHC pays the cost of ambulance transport to
a hospital or medical centre if you have an accident or an
unforeseen illness that requires immediate medical attention.

Please note: OSHC does not cover the cost of dental,

physiotherapy, optical or any other ancillary services during
your stay in Australia.
It is your responsibility to ensure your OSHC health insurance
cover is always current to comply with Student Visa conditions.

How to make an OSHC claim

When you receive treatment from a doctor you will be given
an account to pay. After you have paid the doctors account,
take your account and receipt together with your OSHC
membership card to Medibank Private at the Stockland
Rockhampton shopping centre, Musgrave Street, North
Rockhampton to apply for your refund.
Website: www.medibank.com.au

Extra private health insurance

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

Money and banking

Australian currency
Australian currency follows a decimal system. The dollar
(AUD) the basic unit of the Australian decimal system is
divided into 100 cents.
Notes come in denominations of $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100.
Coin denominations are $1 and $2 (gold coloured) 50c, 20c,
10c, 5c (silver coloured).
Currency Converter Website: www.xe.com/ucc/full

Banking
It is recommended you bring at least AUD$2500 with
you to meet your establishment costs (your temporary
accommodation, your rental bond and rent in advance,
telephone connection charges, text books, etc.). It is advisable
to carry travellers cheques in Australian dollars as these
are secure. Remember to exchange some of your travellers
cheques into Australian dollars (at least AUD$500) at the
international airport on your arrival in Australia to pay for
your immediate expenses. (temporary accommodation/food
etc) Travellers cheques can also be cashed at banks and major
department stores.

Please note: it is not always possible to exchange your home

currency into Australian dollars at banks in Rockhampton.
It is advisable to open a bank account as soon as possible
after your arrival in Rockhampton so you can transfer funds
from overseas. As bank drafts may take up to two to three
weeks to be cleared in Australia, electronic transfers are
recommended. If you open your account within six weeks of
your arrival, your passport will be sufficient proof of identity.
There are branches of the major Australian banks at the
Stockland Rockhampton shopping centre. Normal banking
hours are 9 am to 4 pm Monday to Thursday and 9 am to 5 pm
Friday. Banks are not open on Saturdays. An ATM (automatic
teller machine) is located in the Commercial Centre (Building
65) on campus.
To avoid someone else using your card or PIN to withdraw
money from your account it is important to take great care. Do
not keep your PIN number in your wallet with your card. If you
lose your card, you must notify the bank immediately.
International credit cards, including Visa, Master, American
Express and Diners Club cards can all be used in Australia.

Religious and spiritual information

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

CQUniversity Inter-Faith Sacred Garden

(Building 202)
The CQUniversity Inter-Faith Sacred Garden provides a quiet
space for relaxation, reflection and meditation. For further
information, please contact Student Support Centre on +61 7
4930 9456
or email ssc@cqu.edu.au

Transport
Public transport

Driving in Queensland

The Sunbus service provides clean and comfortable transport

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

You may drive in Queensland if you hold a valid (current)

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

Private transport
Many students find accommodation close to the university
and either walk or ride a bicycle. The cost of a bicycle ranges
from AUD$50.00 (second-hand) to AUD$150/AUD$300
(medium-quality new). You must wear a safety helmet when
riding a bicycle it is a compulsory road rule. A substantial
fine applies if a police officer notices you cycling without
wearing your helmet.

Buying a car
Buying and running a car is expensive. Petrol, maintenance,
compulsory registration and insurance costs all have to be
met. Be cautious if you intend buying a second-hand car. Have
it inspected by an authorised mechanic from the RACQ (a
motoring organisation) Telephone: +61 7 4928 5700 to ensure
it is reliable and meets registration standards. Registration
includes compulsory third-party insurance. This insurance pays
for the treatment costs of the other party if an accident is your
fault. Please note: It does not cover damage to the other car
or your own vehicle. The RACQ can provide you with other
comprehensive insurance to cover these additional costs.
Website: www.racq.com.au
Free student parking is available at CQUniversity
Rockhampton. Students must park their cars in designated
areas or vehicles may be towed away.

Australia is very safety conscious regarding road rules. There

are penalties if you breach the rules. Do not exceed the speed
limit. Wear your seat belt in a car at all times. Do not drive if
you have been drinking alcohol or are affected by drugs. Do
not drive if you are tired. You are also not allowed to operate
a mobile phone while driving.
Website: www.transport.qld.gov.au

Employment
Working in Rockhampton

How to apply for a Tax File Number

Many international students obtain work during their stay

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

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

Whilst a number of CQUniversity students obtain part-time

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

Website: www.ato.gov.au/individuals

10

Student Visa compliance conditions

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

Payment of academic tuition fees

Students must pay their tuition fees and overseas student
health cover (as indicated on the offer of admission) prior
to the Confirmation of Enrolment (eCOE) being issued. The
Confirmation of Enrolment allows students to proceed with
their student visa application.

Enrolment
As an international student you must enrol on a full-time
basis to complete your study within the stated duration of
the program, as recorded on the Commonwealth Register of
Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) This
means that your progress will be monitored closely to ensure
that you meet this requirement.
In your first term of study you must enrol in 4 (four) courses
if you are an undergraduate student, or 3 (three) courses if
you are a postgraduate student. All of these courses must be
undertaken on-campus.
International students must ensure they complete their
program within the stated duration of the program, as
indicated on a students confirmation of enrolment. You
may seek approval to enrol in a distance education course
(externally) when there arent internal classes held, but you
must be careful not to enrol in more than 25% of the total
courses you undertake at CQUniversity in the flexible learning
mode. If you have been granted exemptions and your duration
is lessened, please be aware you must not undertake more
than 25% of the total courses remaining in flexible learning
mode. You must remain enrolled in CQUniversity for the first
six (6) calendar months of your program.

Satisfactory academic progression

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

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

Deferral of studies
Once an international student has enrolled in a program they
are not allowed to defer commencement of their studies,
or suspend their studies, except on the grounds of illness,
evidence by a Doctors certificate, or other exceptional
compassionate circumstances beyond the control of the student,
for example, bereavement. If you defer or suspend your studies
on any other grounds, CQUniversity is obligated to report you
to DIAC as not complying with your student visa conditions.
International students must have completed more than one term
of study to be eligible to apply for Deferral of Studies.

Change of address
Your local contact details (Australian address and telephone
contact) must be up to date at all times.
Within seven days of making any change to your accommodation
you must provide CQUniversity with your new address details
or you can register your new address/phone contact details
through CQUcentral http://cqucentral.cqu.edu.au.
Contact the Student Contact Centre on 13CQUni 13 27 86 if
you incur any problems.

11

Grievance procedures
Reporting to DIAC

Student Ombudsman

CQUniversity is required to report international students to

DIAC:

Students may also contact the University Student

Ombudsman, if you have any genuine issues of concern about
your assessment or grade for a course. Telephone: +61 7 4923
2066 or email: student-ombudsman@cqu.edu.au

when there are any changes to a students enrolment, such

as change of address or duration of course;
if a student attempts to defer or suspends their studies;
where a student has been issued with an eCOE and has
paid the tuition fee but is now seeking a refund of those
fees paid;
where a student refuses to enrol in the required study load,
taking into account the stated duration of the program;
where a student is not enrolled on a full-time basis and
where the Faculty has not approved a reduced study load;
where a student fails to achieve satisfactory academic
progression over a twelve month period; or
when a student completes their program.
The consequences of this reporting are varied but could result
in DIAC cancelling your student visa.
Website: www.immi.gov.au/students

Independent dispute resolution services

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

12

Student Support Services

International student support officer
(Building 31)
The International Student Support Officer (ISSO) is your first
point of contact to help you settle into your new study life.
The ISSO will help you to resolve problems personal or
academic. To ensure you are given the best opportunity to
succeed with your university studies please make contact with
the ISSO as soon as you can after your arrival. During your
first interview with the International Student Support Officer
a number of interview times will be made for throughout the
term if required so that you can discuss support you may need
to assist with your study progress.
The International Student Support Officer is a member of the
Student Support Centre student support team. This team are
there to provide a wide range of support services including
Orientation, counselling, career planning and graduate
placement, student mentor links, Skills for Academic Success
sessions to name just a few. For Student Support Centre
queries via email: ssc@cqu.edu.au. The International Student
Support Officers telephone number is +61 7 4930 6370
or Mobile 0437 919 048.

Orientation
Your participation in Orientation at CQUniversity is an
essential part of your attendance at University. Here you
will meet Faculty and Support staff and you will be given
information that is vital to your success with your university
study program. This time is also an excellent opportunity for
you to ask questions and to get to know other students. Some
topics covered at Orientation include:
your study program;
the technology and administration processes that are
necessary for you to be successful with your studies;
the support available for you to achieve satisfactory
academic progress;
how to find your way around the university;
who to go to when you need assistance;
what social and sporting activities are available.
You will also meet your Student Mentor who will be available
to advise you during Orientation and throughout your first year
at University.

Your International Student Support Officer (ISSO) will be there

to assist you, please make contact as soon as you can after
your arrival on +61 7 4930 6370. Email: ssc@cqu.edu.au.
Specific information about the Orientation program is
available on the website available on the current students
webpage under the popular links section - first year students.

Academic writing support

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

Library Information Services (Building 10)

The CQUniversity Library provides excellent access to
information resources and services. Library staff offer a
varied program of information literacy education including
orientation tours, generic skills classes and specialised
tutorials in accessing and retrieving information.
Website: www.library.cqu.edu.au

IT HELP
For a range of IT Services visit www.cqu.edu.au/it-help.

13

Academic Learning Services (Building 32)

Student Support Centre (Building 31)

Supporting the Universitys students at all levels of tertiary

study, there are staff at the Rockhampton, Bundaberg,
Emerald, Gladstone and Mackay campuses. It also offers
assignment assistance to distance students.

This team are available to provide confidential counselling

regarding personal concerns, financial advice and other
issues related to your academic progress and equity issues.
Staff also conduct career workshops to assist students with
information about further study options, career exploration,
job search skills, resume preparation and interview
techniques. For an appointment to see a personal or careers
counsellor please phone: +61 7 4930 9456 or ssc@cqu.edu.au.

The goals of the services are to assist students in all aspects

of assignment writing and oral presentation, assist with
language and structure of academic communication and
enable students to improve their English language, research
and referencing skills.
Website: www.clc.cqu.edu.au

Mathematics Learning Centre (Building 32)

The Mathmatics Learning Centre offers academic learning
support for mathematical writing and calculations. For an
appointment please phone: +61 7 4930 9059
Website: www.mlc.cqu.edu.au

Information Technology (Building 19)

The Information Technology Division (ITD) provides a number
of computer laboratories in various locations throughout the
University. All computers are fully networked and students
are provided with free email accounts and open access to
the Internet. The Help Desk is located on the ground floor of
Building 10.
Telephone +61 7 4930 9233 or email servicedesk@cqu.edu.au.
Website: www.itd.cqu.edu.au

14

Preparing for your departure to Australia

In preparation for your stay in Australia we suggest you visit
the following websites:
Guide to Visiting Australia
Website: www.immi.gov.au/visitors/index.htm
Destination Queensland
Website: www.queenslandholidays.com.au
These sites will give you lots of information about life in
Australia and Queensland in particular, Australian people, our
history, our geography, our government and our culture.

Bringing your family to Australia

Your dependent family members are eligible to apply for
a Student Dependent visa at your nearest Australian High
Commission or Embassy. They will require supporting
documents such as marriage and birth certificates and
passports. Proof of sufficient income for living purposes and
proof that adequate arrangements have been made for the
education of any school-age dependents will also be required.
In most instances it is best for you to settle into life and study
in Rockhampton prior to making arrangements for your family
to join you.

If you would like assistance with travel bookings, please contact

Travel Crew.
Website: www.travelcrew.com.au

Schooling/Child care for dependent children

In most cases, international students will be required to
pay tuition fees for your dependent school-age childrens
education at Queensland Government schools. Prices at
private schools may differ and are subject to change. It is
recommended that you confirm fees at each individual school.
Contact CQUniversity Student Contact Centre office for
procedures to follow to obtain a Confirmation of Enrolment for
your dependent school-age children. Information on child care
is available from the Student Support Centre office.

15

What to bring
Clothing

What not to bring

You will need appropriate clothes for a tropical climate. Cool

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

It is important you are aware of what you cannot bring into

Australia. You can be fined on the spot or face prosecution if
you do not declare items of quarantine concern. If you are not
sure about the goods you are carrying or Australias quarantine
law, declare them anyway and ask a quarantine officer.

You may attend dinners and student celebrations during your

stay in Australia. Men often wear suits or smart trousers and
a shirt/tie for these occasions. Appropriate wear for women
would be a semi-formal dress or skirt and top.

Other items
Personal items such a toiletries, bath towels, bed linen,
drivers licence/international drivers licence translated into
English, photographs from home and electric plug/adaptor.
The standard voltage for electrical appliances in Australia is
240 volts. Standard plugs have three flat pins. You may need
to purchase an adaptor to use your appliances in Australia.
These are available from most electrical or department
stores. International students can bring such items as desktop
or laptop computers and similar electronic equipment duty/
tax free into Australia provided Customs is satisfied the
student intends taking these items out of Australia on the
students departure.
Cooking utensils and other household items can be purchased
at reasonable cost from department stores or second-hand
shops after your arrival in Australia.

By being aware of Australias quarantine laws and passing

on this information to friends and relatives overseas, you can
help prevent the entry into Australia of pests and diseases
through parcels containing illegal food and plant items.
Remember, an innocent gift mailed from one person can often
mean problems for another.
The following items cannot be mailed to you in Australia
mayonnaise, moon cakes, fresh noodles containing egg or
meat, fresh fruit and vegetables, packaged meals containing
egg, dairy products or meat and meat products (fresh, dried,
frozen, smoked, salted or canned, including stock and meat
snacks), salmon and trout (fresh or dried), cheese, beans
(dried or fresh), salami (fresh or preserved), sausages (fresh
or preserved), milk and dairy products including butter or
plant material.
If you bring AUD$10 000 or more into Australia you must
declare it to customs upon arrival. You will not incur any taxes
by declaring the money you bring to Australia but failing to
declare AUD$10 000 or more is an offence.
Remember to pass on this important information to friends
and relatives overseas.
Website: www.daff.gov.au/aqis

16

Travel checklist
Use the following checklist to ensure you are well prepared
for your journey to Australia.
Make sure you have:
a valid passport containing your student visa;
two passport size photographs for your student
identification (ID) card;
collected and checked your airline tickets and travel
itinerary;
send your Arrivals Details Form to Student Support Centre
+61 7 4930 9366; or ssc@cqu.edu.au
purchased travellers cheques;
purchased Australian dollars to cover your initial expenses;
arranged for a visit to your dentist for a check-up (dental
treatment is not covered in Australia by your OSHC
insurance);
read this International Student Guide;
read carefully the Australian Quarantine section: What not
to bring into Australia. Refer www.daff.gov.au/aqis.
Pack the following items in your in-flight hand luggage:
this International Student Guide. It contains the contact
numbers and email details for many of the organisations
you will need to contact when you arrive in Australia;
your passport with your student visa;
airline ticket;
money and credit cards;
camera;
a spare pair of spectacles or contact lenses.
Personal medications with a letter from your doctor certifying
the medication is required for your medical treatment
(customs officers may ask you to explain the purpose of your
medication).

Warning: Do not accept bags or items from other people and

agree to bring them into Australia. Travellers are sometimes
tricked into bringing illegal items, especially drugs into
Australia. Penalties for bringing illegal items into Australia
are very severe. If anyone asks you to bring a parcel or gift to
Australia open the parcel and have a look at the contents before
accepting it. Inspect everything that goes into your personal
luggage. Not knowing that an illegal item is in your luggage
may not be accepted as an excuse for bringing it into Australia.
Helpful telephone numbers
Student Support Centre Office Hours: 8.45 am 4.45 pm
Monday to Friday
+61 7 4930 9456
After Hours Emergency Telephone Contact:
CQUniversity Security 0418 792 982
Contact International Student Support Officer 0437 919 048
Brisbane International Airport Travellers Information Service
+61 7 3406 3190

17

Arriving in Australia
A week before you leave

Arriving at Brisbane International Airport

If you would like to be met on your arrival in Rockhampton,

please complete all sections of the CQUniversity Student
Arrivals Details form. Complete the form and fax it back to:
Student Support Centre Fax Number +61 7 4930 9366, or email
ssc@cqu.edu.au.

The following documents are required for entry clearance

(a) Your passport and (b) Incoming Passenger card (the flight
attendant on your aircraft will give you this card to complete).
These documents will be returned to you after immigration
processing. You may then collect your luggage and proceed to
the baggage examination area. If you do not have anything to
declare, follow the green channel. If you do have something to
declare, follow the red channel.

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

When to arrive
Students are encouraged to arrive in Rockhampton at least
one week prior to the commencement of your orientation to
university life. This will allow you sufficient time to locate
suitable accommodation and settle in. The commencement
date of your Orientation is printed on your Letter of Offer. It
is important to note that at CQUniversity your orientation is
designed as a vital part of your academic study. Involvement
in orientation week is extremely important to your chance
of success.

Please note: In either the red or green channel, you may

be asked questions by Customs or Quarantine staff. These
officers may also examine your baggage.
As there is no international terminal in Rockhampton, most
students arrive at the Brisbane International Airport.
You will need to transfer from your international flight to a
domestic flight or make a booking to travel by bus or train to
Rockhampton. Air travel to Rockhampton takes approximately
one hour, electric train, seven hours and travel by bus/coach,
10 hours.
Domestic airline check-in counters are located in the Arrivals
Hall, to your right after you leave the Customs Hall.
If you have any questions or require assistance please
contract the staff of the Travellers Information Service Desk,
located near the Arrivals Hall exit doors. The trained staff are
available to assist you make airline, bus or train bookings for
your travel on to Rockhampton. Information on budget priced
accommodation is also available if it is necessary for you to
stay overnight in Brisbane.
Please remember to exchange some of your travellers cheques
into Australian dollars at the International Airport (at least
AUD$500 for your temporary accommodation etc.). You may
also wish to exchange your home currency into Australian
dollars as it is not always possible to exchange this at banks
in Rockhampton.

18

Adjusting to a new environment

Living and studying in another country is exciting and
challenging. However when you first arrive in Australia,
you may experience a period of adjustment. It is a perfectly
natural experience, which most people have when they move
to a new country. You have to find your way around, find
accommodation, get used to different food, maybe a different
climate, learn to understand a different culture and new
customs. There may be many things you will not understand.
Some students find Australians speak very quickly and have
an unusual accent. The meaning of slang words and phrases
and some gestures may not be easily understood.
Australians do not usually use titles and refer to most people,
including academic staff, by their first name. Most people you
meet will expect to call you by your first name.
Introduce yourself in a way so they will know the name you
would like to be known as.
As a general rule, Australians tend to work to schedules and
expect punctuality from others. Appointments, including informal
ones, should always be kept or an apology sent beforehand if
you will be late or are not able to keep the appointment.
Australia is a multicultural society and readily accepts people
for their individual customs and beliefs. Australians are
friendly and in most cases will understand the difficulties you
may have and be willing to help you.
The International Student Support Officer is trained to assist
international students to adjust to this new environment. We
look forward to welcoming you to CQUniversity.

19

Contact details
If you or your family have any questions, please contact us:
CQUniversity Rockhampton
Student Support Centre
Building 31
Bruce Highway
Rockhampton QLD 4702
AUSTRALIA
Telephone: +61 7 4930 9456
Fax: +61 7 4930 9366
Mobile: 0437 919 048
Email: ssc@cquni.edu.au
Website: www.cquni.edu.au

BE WHAT YOU WANT TO BE