Living in Geelong

Geelong has a lower cost of living than Sydney, Melbourne and other Australian capital cities. As a guide, it is estimated that you will need approximately AUD$13,260 per year (covering accommodation, transport, food, electricity, etc.). This amount is in addition to airfares, visa application, health cover, tuition fees, books and course materials and will vary depending on your lifestyle, preferences and budgeting skills.

Listed below is a breakdown of estimated yearly living costs:

Working

If you or members of your family wish to work while you are studying, you must hold a visa with permission to work. Please refer to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) Working While Studying section for more information and guild lines.

It is up to the individual student to seek work. The Institute’s Counseling and Careers Centre offers a resume preparation service and job interview techniques. Counseling and Careers is located on level 1 in H building at City Campus (next to the Library). Family members of students are not allowed to work until the student starts their course. Dependants of students are allowed to work up to 40 hours per fortnight.

 

Tax File Number (TFN)

As a temporary-visa holder in Australia, international students can apply for a Tax File Number(TFN) online through the Australian Tax Office (ATO). This is a straightforward process requiring your passport number and personal details. See the Online Tax File Number Registration System Fact Sheet for further information. You are not required to get a TFN, however you will be taxed at a higher rate when you are working if you do not have a TFN.

 

Public transport

For public transport in the Geelong area visit http://www.vline.com.au/ for information on fares and timetables.

Further information can also be obtained from individual train stations, or calling 136 196 from anywhere in Victoria.  

 

Driving

You can drive on your overseas drivers licence or international driving licence as long as it is valid for the class of vehicle or motorbike. You must carry your licence with you at all times when you are driving. If it is in a language other than English, it must be accompanied by an English translation made by an accredited translator. If the licence expires, you must get a Victorian driving licence. For information on Victorian driving licences please visit VicRoads website.

 

Emergencies

For emergency attendance by Police, Ambulance and Fire services please call 000. This number is to be used in an emergency only. For less urgent enquires you can contact the nearest Police station, Hospital or Fire Station. Contact telephone numbers are listed in the White Pages telephone directory. 

 

Childcare

There are a number of different childcare options available in Australia. Children who are 4 or 5 years of age, attend kindergarten or school. If your child is younger and you have to attend the classes, you will need to arrange to place your child in “Family Day Care” or a “Childcare Centre”. The different types of care are explained at www.careforkids.com.au. You can also register to receive information about availability. There are many Childcare Centres located in Geelong. Please visit the City of Greater Geelong (CoGG) website to see the details. International students are not eligible for the government rebate called Child Care Benefit (CCB) so will need to pay the full fee. The average cost for a full day of care in a centre is between AUD $50 – AUD $60 or between AUD $220 – AUD $230 for a full week of care (Monday to Friday 8 am to 6 pm). The cost will depend on what type of care you choose and may be less if you do not need to use childcare all day.