HEA provides support services for international students in accordance with the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act and the National Code.
Support includes guidance on enrolment, academic progress, wellbeing, and access to services while studying in Australia.
Study Melbourne provides excellent additional resources and information about living and learning in Melbourne.
Welcome to Melbourne and Victoria
Whether you are a returning student, or new to the state of Victoria, we are here to help you get the most out of living and studying here.
Getting Started
We know moving to a new country and a new city can be hard, so we have provided some links and practical advice to get you started.
Check out these short videos for pre-arrival information, tips on managing the cost of living and budgeting, navigating public transport, and finding suitable accommodation.
There’s something for everyone to see and do in Melbourne city and in regional Victoria. Check out the City of Melbourne’s What’s On and Visit Victoria websites for inspiration.
Study Melbourne has a calendar of events and programs to help you meet new friends, develop your soft-skills, discover new experiences, and build your networks.
Embarking on your study abroad journey in Victoria? Discover how to find the perfect accommodation, whether you’re considering student accommodation or private rentals in Melbourne, Victoria.
How to find accommodation – Discover how to find the perfect accommodation, whether you’re considering student accommodation or private rentals in Melbourne, Victoria.
Your rights when renting – Learn about your rights and responsibilities as a tenant, essential knowledge for anyone planning to rent privately in Melbourne or elsewhere in the state.
Your move-in checklist – Ready to settle into your new home in Victoria? Whether you’re renting a house or apartment, use this checklist to help you make your new place feel like home sweet home.
Looking to make the most of your social life in Victoria? Discover how to connect with others, adapt to your new home, make friends and explore all that Melbourne has to offer.
Groups and communities – Looking to connect with others and find support in Victoria? Discover a variety of groups, clubs, and associations in Melbourne and regional Victoria.
Adapting to a new place – A guide to culture shock, homesickness and adjusting to life in Victoria.
How to make friends – A guide to making new friends as an international student in Melbourne.
Going out – Ready to explore Melbourne? Discover the city’s vibrant restaurant and bar scene with our guide to going out in Melbourne.
Stay safe in Melbourne with these tips for navigating the city and online spaces.
While Melbourne is known for its safety, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and how to protect yourself.
Beach and seasonal safety – Discover essential safety tips for enjoying Victoria’s beaches, staying sun-safe, and preparing for seasonal risks like bushfires.
Home and property safety – Ensure your home is safe and secure with practical tips for locking doors and windows, fire prevention, and smoke alarm maintenance.
Flying into Melbourne – Learn all about arriving at Melbourne Airport as an international traveller, including useful arrival tips, transport options, and travel planning advice.
Guide to public transportation – Discover how to navigate Melbourne’s public transport system with this guide to trams, trains, and buses.
In Australia you are not required by law to carry proof of identification (ID), but you may find it useful in some situations.
Driving a car, truck or riding a motorcycle
If you drive a car or truck or ride a motorcycle in Victoria you must have a valid driver’s licence and have it with you whenever you are driving. See the VicRoads overseas drivers page for information on licence conversion, or visit VicRoads for more.
Your student ID
When you enrol to study, your university, college or school will give you a student identification card. These cards grant access to campus facilities like libraries and gyms, plus various Melbourne discounts.
Student ID at exams
Take your student ID with you to exams. You will need it to enter the exam and prove that you sat the exam.
Proof of age
You may need to prove that you are over 18 to enter some venues or to purchase alcohol.
Accepted proof of age includes:
Proof of age card
Driver’s licence (Victorian or any Australian state)
Passport
Victorian proof of age card
Use a Victorian proof of age card anywhere in Australia to prove your age. Cards are issued by the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation (VCGLR) and available at some police stations, Australia Post outlets, VicRoads offices and pharmacies.
Keypass cards
Keypass cards are issued by Australia Post and serve as proof of age and identity. They are accepted at licensed premises, for employment applications, rental applications, and driver licence applications.
After-hours support services – Find out which 24-hour emergency and support services are available to international students.
Making a complaint – In Australia, the Ombudsman provides free, confidential and independent services to help international students resolve complaints.
