Student Pre-departure Guide - Murdoch Institute of Technology
Transcription
Student Pre-departure Guide - Murdoch Institute of Technology
Pre-Departure Guide 2015 Murdoch Institute of Technology Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd. ABN 85 124 217 670, trading as Murdoch Institute of Technology. Registered as a Higher Education Provider. CRICOS: 03127E. PRE-DEPARTURE GUIDE MURDOCH INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY Welcome Welcome to Murdoch Institute of Technology and Murdoch Language Centre. This guide will help you make the most of your chosen course and will give you useful information that you can refer to during your stay. So, what’s studying at Murdoch Institute of Technology and Murdoch Language Centre really like? You have probably already imagined what your life will be like in Perth. You may have ideas about life in Australia based on films, television or stories from friends and family. This guide aims to make your transition into Australia as enjoyable and easy as possible and will tell you what to expect when you attend MIT. We hope that this information will help you to form realistic expectations and encourage you to take advantage of the many opportunities ahead. Will I be able to adjust to a new culture? At MIT we understand that your transition into life in a different culture may be challenging at times – but it will also be fun. You will soon meet people from around the world, try new things, and live in a different culture. One of the best ways to make sure that your transition goes smoothly is to maintain a positive attitude and stay healthy. View your new environment as a place to learn interesting things about yourself and others. Try to get enough sleep, eat properly, exercise, and participate in social activities. Take time to observe and enjoy the new things going on around you and appreciate the differences you find in your host country. Contents 3 Before you leave 4 Checklist 5 When you arrive 5 Your first day 6 Campus facilities 6 Course information 7 Local information I have more questions... Please contact your local MIT representative if you have more questions before you depart. After you arrive, staff at the college will be happy to help you with any problems that you have or any questions you want to ask. 8 Homestay accommodation 9 Other accommodation 10 Student health 11 Security Services on Campus 12 Laws and Customs 13 Deferring, suspending or cancelling your course 14 Important dates to remember 14 Contact details 15 Campus map 2 | www.murdochinstitute.wa.edu.au Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd. ABN 85 124 217 670, trading as Murdoch Institute of Technology. Registered as a Higher Education Provider. CRICOS: 03127E. PRE-DEPARTURE GUIDE MURDOCH INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY Before you leave... We understand that at times you may feel nervous when preparing for your stay in Australia. There are some important things you need to know before you leave that will make your life easier when you arrive. Use our checklist on the next page to ensure that you do not forget anything and are well prepared for the exciting times ahead of you. Pocket money We recommend that you budget AUD 100-150 for every week of your course. This should cover personal expenses, laundry, local travel and activities. You will need additional money if you plan to rent a car, take weekend trips or travel. Bring AUD 200 with you in cash and a Debit or Credit Card. Do not bring foreign currency. It is not wise to carry around large amounts of cash. Clothing Students dress casually for classes. You should bring some nice clothes for going out to restaurants, nightclubs etc. You should also bring clothing for sports and outdoor activities. You can usually rent sporting equipment. The climate in Australia is very warm and humid. The typical summer temperature is between 28°C and 37°C with some days reaching up to 40°C and in winter 15°C to 25°C. Bring light clothing to keep you cool if you are arriving in summer. 3 | www.murdochinstitute.wa.edu.au Bank account If you are staying for longer than six months you may wish to open a bank account. If possible, try to set up your bank account before you arrive as rules, regulations and policies between banks vary. You may be required to bring a wide variety of personal documentation with you. If you decide to set up a bank account after you have arrived, remember that it can take a long time so make sure you are able to access your money at all times. Electrical current Standard voltage in Australia is 240 volts. To make sure that you are able to use all your electrical appliances bring a converter and an adaptor with you, or alternatively you can purchase an adaptor upon our arrival from travel stores or some supermarkets. Visit the Murdoch Institute of Technology website at www.murdochinstitute.wa.edu.au for more information about life in Perth. Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd. ABN 85 124 217 670, trading as Murdoch Institute of Technology. Registered as a Higher Education Provider. CRICOS: 03127E. PRE-DEPARTURE GUIDE MURDOCH INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY Checklist Use this checklist to make sure that you have packed everything you will need and that you are well prepared for your trip to Australia. Check off each item as you pack it, or complete the task. Passport and Passport Sized Photos Remember to bring your passport and any other form of personal identification you may need. For example, your driving license. Remember also to pack two passport-sized photos to bring with you on your first day at college. Enrolment Agreement Pack your acceptance letter and MIT documentation (given to you by your MIT representative) in your hand luggage so that it is easy to access on arrival. Visa Ensure that your visa is with your passport and stored in your hand luggage. You will need your visa when passing through immigration and on your first day at MIT. Homestay/Residential Address Details Remember to pack your homestay or residential address details in your hand luggage so they are easy to access on your arrival. You will need this information for the arrival card at immigration and on your first day at MIT. You will have received these details from your MIT representative. Knowledge of local Laws and Customs Quiz yourself about local laws and customs in Australia. Talk to your MIT representative about what you should expect and how you should behave in Australia. Please also visit: www.perth.wa.gov. au Proof of Health and Travel Insurance You must bring proof of your Travel Insurance and Health Insurance with you and store this information in your hand luggage. Also keep a copy of each with your family at home in case you lose any documentation during your stay. AUD 200 in cash Store this cash on your body or in your hand luggage. Try to avoid counting or pulling out your money in busy public places. Travellers’ Cheques in low denominations Store these cheques on your body or in your hand luggage. Try to avoid counting or pulling out your cheques in public places. Correct Clothing Wear layers on your flight in case you get hot upon arrival. Adaptor for Electrical Appliances Remember standard voltage in Australia is 240 volts. You may also need to bring a plug adaptor. Prescription Medication Pack medication carefully in full packaging in case you are asked questions in customs on your departure or arrival. Laptop The college provides a free wireless hotspot service, so take advantage by bringing your own computer. 4 | www.murdochinstitute.wa.edu.au Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd. ABN 85 124 217 670, trading as Murdoch Institute of Technology. Registered as a Higher Education Provider. CRICOS: 03127E. PRE-DEPARTURE GUIDE MURDOCH INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY When you arrive... Arriving at the airport of a foreign country can be overwhelming and stressful. Do not feel shy about asking airport staff for help, as most airport staff will be happy to help you. Airport Meeting Service Your first day Students can request to be met at the airport and taken to their place of accommodation. For MIT students, Orientation is held in the week before the start of trimester. You need to report to Reception at MIT, Building 512 (near Car park No 5). Independent Transfers Your first day will be a Monday unless there is a designated holiday on the Monday, in which case your first day will be on the Tuesday. Students can choose to take a taxi or a shuttle bus from the airport. Taxi: There is a taxi rank outside the international flights terminal building. A taxi journey to your host family will vary in price, but will cost approximately AUD 30-65. Bus: Shuttle Services run regularly from the airport to the Central City. Students can then connect with bus services, which run from the Central City to all main suburbs in Perth. 5 | www.murdochinstitute.wa.edu.au For English Program students, your first day will be a Monday. Please report to Reception at MIT, Building 512 (near Car park No 5). What time do I need to be there? Please arrive by 9:00am. What do I need to bring? Please bring the following documents: P All documents concerning your enrolment P Your Passport P Visa – if E-Visa please print out and bring with you P OSHC Card – if you have already been studying in Australia P D ebit or Credit card to purchase your textbooks. The cost of textbooks vary for each subject you study and can vary from AUD 10 AUD 50. P S tationery Items – Pen, Paper, English Dictionary P A ccommodation Information – Address and telephone number of where you are staying; and your email address What will I do at Orientation? Your Orientation program includes: P E nglish Placement Assessment (if applicable) P C onfirmation of subject selection (MUPC and Diploma students only) P I ntroduction to Institute procedures and calendar P Campus tour P Visa and immigration information P Issue of timetable P O verseas Student Health Cover P I ssue of Student Identification Card (Your student ID card will be issued within the first week of study) Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd. ABN 85 124 217 670, trading as Murdoch Institute of Technology. Registered as a Higher Education Provider. CRICOS: 03127E. PRE-DEPARTURE GUIDE MURDOCH INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY Campus facilities Banking Banking facilities for BankWest, UniCredit and ANZ are located on campus. Parking Paid parking is available on campus through Murdoch University Student Services. Cafés and food outlets Students have a wide range of food options on campus. Several serve halal foods. Food Outlets include: Places of worship Murdoch University has an on-campus multi-faith Worship Centre. • • • • Absolutely Kebabulous Aroma Café Asian Food Van Carve a Roast • • • • Lunchbox Murdoch University Tavern Walters Café Wok Inn (Please note that eating in classrooms is not permitted. You may bring a bottle of water only into class) Computer access A number of general-purpose computer laboratories, offering Microsoft Office software and high speed Internet, are available to students 24 hours a day, 7 days per week. Library Extensive library resources and services are available. These include on-site access to electronic databases (including those with the full text of articles online) and journals for research, library catalogues, past examination papers, and the ability to manage loans (recall books, renew books, etc.). The new Learning Commons in the Library are open to students 24/7. Recreational facilities and activities The campus has a health and fitness Centre providing facilities for basketball, volleyball, netball, badminton, |indoor soccer and squash. A fully equipped gymnasium is also available. Students can become paid members or hire the facility for short periods. Social activities Murdoch University’s Student Guild provides its students with an excellent social programme. Students can take part in the many workshops, activities, sports, courses and tours. Additional events are run by the Student Liaison Officer for MIT students throughout the year. Student Guild Shop The Guild shop sells, amongst other things, limited grocery items, phone cards, a few items of clothing and TNT boxes for transporting goods overseas. Resource Centre The Student Learning Resource Centre is located on level 4 of the Main Library. The Centre has a range of skills-building and reference materials that students can use. Class Timetables Class Times – Murdoch Institute of Technology Murdoch University Library Classes for MUPC and Diploma are conducted between 8:30 am and 5:30pm from Monday to Friday during trimesters. Students each have an individual timetable. Class Times – English Program Classes 9:00 - 10:30 Mon Tues Period 1 Period 1 Period 2 Period 2 Fri Period 1 Period 1 Period 1 Period 2 Period 2 Period 2 Break 12:30 - 1:15 1:15 - 3:15 Thurs Break 10:30 - 11:00 11:00 - 12:30 Wed Period 3 Period 3 Period 3 Period 3 Class times are subject to change and you should only use this timetable as an example of what type of structure to expect. 6 | www.murdochinstitute.wa.edu.au Health and Fitness Centre Course Information – Continued Studies All students should speak to Student Services during their course to find out more about how your studies can be personalised to help you achieve your academic goals. You may be able to save time and money by following an academic pathway to Murdoch University. Courses Include: Murdoch University Preparation Course; Diploma of Commerce; Information Technology or Mass Communication and Media; General English; English for Academic Purposes Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd. ABN 85 124 217 670, trading as Murdoch Institute of Technology. Registered as a Higher Education Provider. CRICOS: 03127E. PRE-DEPARTURE GUIDE MURDOCH INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY Local information Transport – buses and trains An excellent public transport system connects all Perth suburbs with the university campus. Subsidised fares and travel cards are available to students. The campus is close to numerous bus stops and train stations. Buses and trains generally run every five to twenty minutes. Bus travel within the city centre is free of charge. Banks and Post Office Banking facilities for BankWest, UniCredit and ANZ are located on campus. Always remember to change money and cheques in banks. Post office boxes are red (regular post) or yellow (express post) and are located on many street corners. A red post box is located near the Chancellery Building on campus. Perth city view from King’s Park Rottnest Island Picnicking near Perth Sightseeing Restaurants and cafés The campus has it’s own cafés and food outlets, and there are many top restaurants in the Perth city centre or in Fremantle, both within a bus or train ride away. Department stores and supermarkets There are supermarkets and shops located within a bus or train ride away from the campus. Supermarket meals are often an economical lunch option. Telephone and Internet Café You can access internet and email from the Library’s computers free of charge. There are public telephones located on the campus. Students are advised to purchase a phone card for long distance calls and to call on weekends and evenings as call rates are cheaper at those times. Places of worship There are places of worship of all religions and faiths in Perth, all accessible by public transport. You can get more information about local religious institutions from the Murdoch Institute of Technology and Language Centre staff at reception. Cost of Living Approximate prices in AUD Eating out Sandwiches Pizza/Pasta Coffee/Tea Pub meal $4.50 - $7.00 $8.00 - $20.00 $4.00 - $4.50 $10.00 - $30.00 Tickets One-way bus trip 1 week travel pass (bus, train ferry) $0.90 - $2.00 $35.00 - $43.00 Groceries (from a supermarket) Loaf of bread Two litres of milk Newspaper Box of cereal Jar of instant coffee Bottle of soft drink Bottle of shampoo Bar of soap One apple One banana Beef (500 grams) Chicken (600 grams) $2.50 - $3.00 $2.20 - $2.90 $1.50 - $3.00 $3.00 - $4.00 $3.00 - $4.00 $1.50 - $3.00 $2.50 - $4.50 $1.50 - $2.50 50 cents - 80 cents 60 cents - 90 cents $7.00 - $8.00 $7.00 - $8.00 Check www.studyinaustralia.gov.au for the latest figures and further information. 7 | www.murdochinstitute.wa.edu.au Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd. ABN 85 124 217 670, trading as Murdoch Institute of Technology. Registered as a Higher Education Provider. CRICOS: 03127E. PRE-DEPARTURE GUIDE MURDOCH INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY Homestay accommodation Murdoch Institute of Technology is working in cooperation with Australian Homestay Network (AHN) to provide students with a valuable homestay accommodation experience. AHN Homestay families are specially trained and their homes professionally inspected, they will help you settle in to life in Australia and can offer advice on general safety, accommodation and welfare. Please go to www.homestaynetwork.org/mit-students for more information. Your life in a homestay Living in a homestay will allow you to practise your English in a real-life setting. It is important to remember that you are both part of a family and a guest at the same time. You may have to help with household chores, keep your bedroom tidy and make your bed each morning. Water is in short supply in Perth, so remember to take short showers (5 minutes max) and conserve water. Make sure that you always ask permission before bringing friends to the house and remember to ask before you change channels on the television when you are watching with others! Meals Breakfast: Breakfast is usually a light meal consisting of cereal, fruit, toast, juice or coffee. Often these foods will be made available to you and you will prepare your own morning meal (otherwise known as ‘help yourself’). Lunch: You will be responsible for purchasing your own lunch on campus, at a local restaurant or from the local shops. Dinner: Dinner may be a shared meal in the evening, or occasionally you may prepare your own meal with food supplied by your host. 8 | www.murdochinstitute.wa.edu.au What to bring You can purchase toiletries and other personal needs locally, but if you have specific items that you need, you should bring them with you. Your host will provide you with bed linen and towels. If you have any prescription medications that you are required to take, you should bring a prescription with you as well as a supply of your medicine. Telephone use You should purchase a phone card or use your mobile phone to make telephone calls. Your hosts’ telephone should only be used for emergency incoming calls. Remember to notify your family of any time differences to avoid calls in the middle of the night. It is often very expensive to make international calls from a home line, which is why we recommend using a phone card. Laundry facilities Your hosts do not do your washing so please ask them how to use their washing machine or take your laundry to a launderette to wash and dry – please do not wash clothes in the bathroom or dry them in your bedroom, in cupboards or on heaters. The average cost per load of washing in an Australian launderette is AUD 2.80 per wash and AUD 1.00 per ten minutes of drying time. Things to remember • Y ou are a guest as well as part of the family • Y ou may have to take part in family chores • Purchase a phone card for international calls • Do not hang your laundry to dry in your room • Ask permission to have a friend come visit you • Notify your family if you are not coming home for the night • Ask permission to smoke Getting to and from campus Your host will help you to find your way to and from college on your first day and will show you how to use public transport. Journey time will depend on the location of your homestay. Explore several options when considering transport to college such as trains, buses or even bike riding. Smoking When you book your accommodation, please request a homestay that allows smoking if you smoke. Most hosts will ask smokers to smoke outside. Always ask your host family upon arrival for their specific house rules regarding smoking. It is general courtesy to ask someone for permission to smoke next to them, even if you are outside. In Australia it is against the law to smoke in a restaurant or any area where food is being prepared. Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd. ABN 85 124 217 670, trading as Murdoch Institute of Technology. Registered as a Higher Education Provider. CRICOS: 03127E. PRE-DEPARTURE GUIDE MURDOCH INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY Other accommodation Some students choose to stay in alternative accommodation, for example in a hostel or on campus in Murdoch University Village. Murdoch University Village Murdoch University Village (MUV) can house over 800 students in fully self contained apartments. Students can choose to live in either a one, two, three, five or eight-bedroom apartment. While there are some twin share rooms available, most students will have their own furnished bedroom, with shared kitchen and living room facilities. MUV facilities include: • Recreation room with pool tables, table tennis and video games, television lounge and music room • Computer laboratory, photocopy centre, study rooms • Three large laundries with coinoperated washing machines and dryers • Volleyball and basket ball courts • Public bus service to the village It is Murdoch University policy to house male and female residents from different social and cultural backgrounds in the same shared apartments. Residential staff live on site and include a team of peer Residential Assistants who enable residents to quickly adapt to their new environment, and who ensure that MUV rules, regulations and standards of behaviour are followed. For more details about Murdoch University accommodation pricing and application process, visit their website: www.murdochuv.com.au Hostel or Rental Accommodation A number of students, over 18 years of age, elect to rent rooms in hostels or in houses, or to rent whole flats (apartments) or houses. These students are responsible for their own living arrangements, although MIT will offer some assistance in finding suitable places, advice on rental agreements and recommendations on accommodation regulations if required. Please ask MIT should you have any questions. Do not sign any agreements without being aware of your rights. Things to remember • Do your research • Consider your options and the advantages and disadvantages • Do not sign any agreements or send any bond payments without being aware of your rights • Read up on accommodation and application process for the Murdoch University Village on www.murdochuv.com.au • Apply early for MUV, as places fill up very fast! • Always keep your room locked and make sure your valuables are locked away Always check the following when considering sharing, boarding or lodging: • Y our rights and responsibilities as a tenant • House rules and/or regulations and how they are enforced • Limitations to room and/or facilities access at certain times • Whether the premises are adequately maintained • Any additional fees and charges you may be responsible for • The length of notice required on termination of contract • Whether receipts for rent, security bond, utility and other payments are provided 9 | www.murdochinstitute.wa.edu.au Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd. ABN 85 124 217 670, trading as Murdoch Institute of Technology. Registered as a Higher Education Provider. CRICOS: 03127E. PRE-DEPARTURE GUIDE MURDOCH INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY Student health If there is an emergency – call 000. Stay calm and describe to the operator on the line what service you need (ambulance, fire or police) and your location. You may be asked to describe any symptoms. Explain as much as you can, don’t worry if you are not confident with your English – say as much as you can, as clearly as you can. Medical Insurance - Student Visa The Australian government requires all students on student visas to join the Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) scheme, a health insurance plan for overseas students in Australia. You will need to pay the full amount for compulsory OSHC (currently AUD 648 per year for single) shown on your Letter of Offer before a visa can be issued. The Student Records Officer will receive your membership card two to three weeks after you commence or you may receive it in the post. When you visit a GP you will be required to pay your initial consultation fee (normally AUD 50-AUD 80). You can then claim some money back through your OSHC provider. The Student Records Officer can assist you with this. This insurance covers: • Visits to a doctor (Insurance company will cover upto certain percentage of the scheduled fee) • The total cost of hospital treatment provided that the treatment is in a public hospital and is provided by a hospital doctor • Eye tests • Some of the costs of medication/ medicines This insurance does not cover: • Dental costs • Physiotherapy • Optical glasses, contact lenses • Ambulance transport • Medical expenses during the first 18 months of membership for any medical conditions that you had before coming to Australia • Treatment covered by provisions for compensation and damages or accidents 10 | www.murdochinstitute.wa.edu.au Please note that MIT will book your insurance cover from the very first day of your course commencement date. Prior cover can be otherwise arranged should you plan on coming to Australia a few weeks before your course starts. Medical and Travel Insurance - Working Holiday or Tourist visa If you are on a Working Holiday or Tourist Visa you must make your own Health Insurance arrangements before you commence your studies. If you get sick You can ask staff at MIT or your host family where the nearest doctor is located. If you have a minor illness you can often ask staff at a local pharmacy for advice. If you are ill, make an appointment to see a doctor and take any relevant insurance or medical documentation with you. You may be required to register with your local doctor. Make sure you get a dated letter from the doctor. If you become unwell whilst on campus, but not seriously so, Parkview Family Practice is conveniently located across the road from the university campus at Unit 2/7 Robson Way, Murdoch, and is open Mon-Fri, 8am-4:30pm. Our Student Support team can assist you in making an appointment. If you are ill, please do not leave the University campus without informing a member of MIT Staff. If serious illness or injury occurs on campus, please report immediately to a member of MIT staff who will assist you. Emergency MIT Number: +61 431 818 716 Things to remember •3 Call 000 in case of fire, medical emergency or need for the police •3 You must have Medical and Travel insurance to attend Murdoch Institute of Technology. •3 If you have a student visa you must also be a member of OSHC Medical Costs Approximate prices in AUD Medical costs are at the discretion of your local doctor or hospital. A guide to costs in Australia are as follows: •A consultation with a doctor: minimum AUD 50 •Prescriptions at a chemist: minimum AUD 15 per item •Dental treatment: minimum AUD 80 •New glasses: minimum AUD 180 Protecting your belongings We strongly recommend that you take out insurance for your personal belongings, especially cameras, radio, personal music player and laptop computer. Personal items cannot be covered by MIT homestay or residence insurance. You can cover these items with your own personal travel insurance. Please ensure that you are properly covered in case of loss or theft. Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd. ABN 85 124 217 670, trading as Murdoch Institute of Technology. Registered as a Higher Education Provider. CRICOS: 03127E. PRE-DEPARTURE GUIDE MURDOCH INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY Security Services on Campus The Security Services team are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our services include security patrols of University campus, the after hours liaison point for emergency maintenance, providing management control of keys and electronic access, after hours opening of doors, opening/securing University main buildings and central teaching rooms, and escort services. How to Request Services Security “call point’ locations Emergency telephone call points are situated across campus. These are located either in walls or stand-alone throughout the University and connect you directly to Security Services via a single button in an emergency (no dialling is necessary). Hours of Operation •24 hours a day, 7 days a week The call buttons are easily recognisable by their red and white chequered band with ‘Emergency Call Point’ printed in red. The emergency call buttons are also shown on all campus maps, please familiarise yourself with their locations. To assist in your own personal safety, we recommend that you use the ‘Night Walk’ walkways and car parks after hours. Take care, be aware! On Campus Security Escort • The on campus security escort is available 24 hours x 7 days a week • Security can be contacted on (08) 9360 6262 or use an emergency call button to arrange for a Security Officer to take you to public transport, your car, or anywhere on campus if you are concerned for your safety. Off Campus Security Escort • Murdoch University South Street campus is proud to announce the introduction of the Off Campus Security Escort Service. • Operating from 7pm until midnight on each weekday during semester teaching weeks and pre-exam study breaks, the service is the only one of its kind at a Western Australian university providing secure mobile off campus escorts for both students and staff. • Escorts are provided for personal security purposes and may include those to and from car parks, student accommodation or to a student /staff residence in surrounding suburbs incorporating the boundaries of North Lake Road, Kwinana Freeway, Somerville Boulevard and Hope Road. • This service is designed to complement the existing on campus escort service that operates each night of the year. • The security escort vehicle is recognisable by its decals and the Security Officers who will drive the vehicle are identifiable by their uniforms and identification cards. 11 | www.murdochinstitute.wa.edu.au Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd. ABN 85 124 217 670, trading as Murdoch Institute of Technology. Registered as a Higher Education Provider. CRICOS: 03127E. PRE-DEPARTURE GUIDE MURDOCH INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY Laws and Customs You may find that laws are enforced differently in Australia than they are in your home country. You must obey this country’s laws and respect its customs. It is important that you understand the laws, rules, and customs that you may encounter. Laws •No one under the age of 18 in Australia may buy or drink alcohol, including beer and wine. It is against the law to buy alcohol for someone you know is under the age of 18. •Driving under the influence of alcohol is a very serious crime and police make regular random checks. •Buying, selling and using drugs is illegal. •You must attend all classes. If you do not attend at least 80% of classes your representative or if you are under 18 years of age your parents will be informed. If you do not then improve your attendance, MIT is required to report you to the Federal Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP). Breaching of these conditions may result in the cancellation of your student visa. •Under the national code, student information may be made available to Commonwealth and State agencies. The Police and MIT are very strict in enforcing these laws. Rules – Murdoch Institute of Technology MIT has rules that must not be broken. • You must attend at least 80% of scheduled classes. • You must achieve satisfactory academic progress. • You must notify MIT of any change of address within 7 days of arrival in Australia, and within 7 days of moving from previous address. • Always tell MIT staff if you are going to be absent from college. • Be on time for your lessons • If you leave your course, MIT is required to inform DIBP and advise you to return home. 12 | www.murdochinstitute.wa.edu.au Customs Customs are an accepted way of behaviour in a country. You need to know the customs of Australia to help you feel comfortable with people. Some important customs to know include: • P lease and Thank you: These are very important words! Always use them if you ask someone to do something for you, or if they help you or give you information. • W omen: Women in Australia are equal to men and should always be treated fairly. Men and women share equally in household work and childcare. • Q ueues: Always stand in line and wait your turn when buying tickets, in a bank, post office or waiting for a bus. Keep to the left when standing on escalators or when walking/ cycling on public pathways. • F riendliness: Australian people talk to strangers in public areas. This is a great way to practise English, but caution should be taken. You should not give out your address and telephone number, or accept inappropriate invitations. Although most people are friendly, some may be reluctant to speak with strangers. Things to remember •3 If you are under 18 years of age it is illegal to drink alcohol •3 If you are under 19 years of age it is illegal to buy tobacco •3 Buying, selling and using drugs is illegal •3 Notify MIT staff if you are going to be absent •3 Women are treated equally to men in Australia •3 Remember to say please and thank you Your Responsibilities As an overseas student on a student visa, you have responsibilities to: •3 Satisfy your Student Visa conditions •3 Maintain your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the period of your stay •3 M eet the terms of the written agreement with MIT •3 I nform MIT if you change your address •3 M aintain satisfactory course progress •3 M aintain 80% attendance during your course •3 I f you are under 18, maintain your approved accommodation, support and general welfare arrangements Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd. ABN 85 124 217 670, trading as Murdoch Institute of Technology. Registered as a Higher Education Provider. CRICOS: 03127E. PRE-DEPARTURE GUIDE MURDOCH INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY Deferring, suspending or cancelling your course The suspension, deferral or cancellation of your enrolment may affect your visa. It is important you are made aware of this whenever you request to suspend, defer or terminate your course. You should refer to the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) website www.immi.gov.au or call their hotline on 131 881 for more information on how these changes affect your visa. Course Deferral This is when you have to delay the start of a course and it applies to a course you have not yet started. This may occur if you ask to return to your country or can not start your new course at the expected start date. MIT may ask that a student defers the start date of a course if they do not meet the prerequisite requirements for that course. How to Apply You should apply in writing to the College Director at MIT using the appropriate form and with supporting evidence. The College will review your application, and where possible, the College Director will meet you. The College will inform you of its decision in writing within 14 days of your application. Course Suspension This is when your course is stopped, either temporarily or permanently, and it applies to a course you are currently studying. The suspension may either be requested by the student or initiated by MIT for student misconduct. If the College approves your request, the written notification will include information that the deferral/ suspension may affect your visa status and that the College will inform DIBP via the PRISMS system. The period of suspension will not be included in the calculation of your final attendance. Compassionate and Compelling Circumstances Students are able to apply to defer or temporarily suspend their course on the grounds of compassionate and/or compelling circumstances. These could include, but are not limited to: • Serious illness or injury, and you have a medical certificate stating that you are unable to attend classes; • Death of a close family member, such as parents or grandparents (where possible you should provide a death certificate); • Major political upheaval or natural disaster in your home country requiring emergency travel; • A traumatic experience, for example, being involved in or witnessing a serious accident, or witnessing or being a victim of a serious crime (where possible you should provide police or psychologists’ reports); • Not being able to start your course on the commencement date because of a delay in receiving your student visa. 13 | www.murdochinstitute.wa.edu.au If the College refuses your request or initiates the suspension or cancellation of your enrolment, the College will notify you of its intention and you will be allowed 20 working days to access the Appeals Procedures. If you choose to appeal the decision, the College will not inform DIBP of a change to your enrolment status until the internal Complaints and Appeals process is completed. If you are under 18, the College cannot accept your request without the permission of your parents/guardian and confirmation that suitable welfare/ accommodation arrangements have been approved. In all instances the student will be responsible for applying for their new visa with DIBP and incur all costs. All students will be obliged to accept MIT Cancellation and Refund Policy as signed upon your initial enrolment. Course Cancellation MIT has the right to cancel your enrolment in the following extenuating circumstances, in which case, you will be reported to DIBP via PRISMS immediately, without waiting for the outcome of an internal or external appeal: • If you are missing and you have not responded to the College’s phone calls, emails or letters to your address; • If you have serious medical problems, severe depression or psychological issues, which result in the College having concerns for your general wellbeing; • If you act or threaten to act in behaviour that puts yourself, other students or the College staff in danger, or if you harass or intimidate another student or staff member; • If you are under 18 and refuse to maintain the care arrangements that have been approved. MIT also has the right to cancel your enrolment for academic misconduct, which is defined as an attempt to cheat, plagiarise or otherwise act dishonestly in undertaking an assessment task, or assisting other students to do so. Students are considered guilty of cheating if they try to gain advantage by unfair means such as copying another student’s work, or in any way mislead the teacher about their knowledge, ability, or the amount of original work they have done. All students are expected to maintain high standards of academic honesty and integrity. For more information: Contact the Australian Department of Immigration and Border Protection by calling 131 881 or visiting www.immi.gov.au Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd. ABN 85 124 217 670, trading as Murdoch Institute of Technology. Registered as a Higher Education Provider. CRICOS: 03127E. PRE-DEPARTURE GUIDE MURDOCH INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY Important dates to remember 2015 Academic Calendars PROGRAM/STREAM TEACHING PERIOD General English - English for Academic Purposes - START DATE FINISH DATE Tri/Sem Murdoch University Preparation Course Diploma Business, Communication & Media Studies, Information & Communication Technology Every 5 weeks starting 6/1 TUITION/ ASSESSMENTS TOTAL CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY Weeks Weeks Start Finish 5 5+ 21-Dec-15 25-Dec-15 16-Mar-15 22-May-15 10 10 - - 20-Apr-15 26-Jun-15 10 10 - - 29-Jun-15 4-Sep-15 10 10 - - 12-Oct-15 18-Dec-15 10 10 - - 16-Nov-15 29-Jan-16 10 10 21-Dec-15 25-Dec-15 Trimester 1 9-Feb-15 29-May-15 15 15 - - Trimester 2 8-Jun-15 25-Sep-15 15 15 - - Trimester 3 5-Oct-15 29-Jan-16 15 16 21-Dec-15 25-Dec-15 Trimester 1 9-Feb-15 29-May-15 15 15 - - Trimester 2 8-Jun-15 25-Sep-15 15 15 - - Trimester 3 5-Oct-15 29-Jan-16 15 16 21-Dec-15 25-Dec-15 Please note: It is expected that students start their studies on the first day of the study period as late arrivals can cause you to fall behind in your studies. Public Holidays - 2015 26-Jan-15 2-Mar-15 3-Apr-15 6-Apr-15 25-Apr-15 28-Sep-15 25-Dec-15 26-Dec-15 Australia Day Labour Day Good Friday Easter Monday ANZAC Day Queen’s Birthday Christmas Holiday Boxing Day Holiday The dates are those for observed holidays in 2015. Christmas and New Year Closures: Closed from 21-25 December 2015. Open again on December 28 2015. Useful links for more information The following websites offer further details and travelling tips regarding your stay in Perth. Any other information can be obtained from Student Services at Murdoch Institute of Technology. Department of Immigration and Border Protectionwww.immi.gov.au Australian Mapswww.whereis.com.au Perth public transport www.transperth.wa.gov.au Tourism, culture and lifestyle www.westernaustralia.com Weather Forecastswww.bom.gov.au/weather/wa We look forward to seeing you at Murdoch Institute of Technology. If you have additional questions please ask our staff on arrival. Murdoch Institute of Technology and Murdoch Language Centre Building 512, Car Park 5, Murdoch University Campus, South Street Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia Phone: +61 (0)8 9630 1700; Fax: +61 (0)8 9360 1701 E-mail: [email protected] www.murdochistitute.wa.edu.au Keep these numbers with you at all times! Emergency MIT Number: +61 431 818 716 14 | www.murdochinstitute.wa.edu.au Emergency Number (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 000 Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd. ABN 85 124 217 670, trading as Murdoch Institute of Technology. Registered as a Higher Education Provider. CRICOS: 03127E. 15 | www.murdochinstitute.wa.edu.au STUDY CENTRE WORSHIP CENTRE MURDOCH BUSINESS SCHOOL CHILD CARE CENTRE Murdoch University Village INTERACTIVE TELEVISION RESEARCH INSTITUTE FREMANTLE DISCOVERY WAY Nature Reserve EDUCATION AND HUMANITIES BUILDING CHINESE GARDENS SOCIAL SCIENCES LAW BUILDING/ MOOT COURT AMENITIES BUILDING SENATE BUILDING ECONOMICS, COMMERCE AND LAW REFECTORY BUILDING GYMNASIUM OFFICE OF COMMERCIAL SERVICES CHIROPRACTIC TECHNIQUES BUILDING HEALTH RESEARCH CENTRE VETERINARY CLINICAL SCIENCES SCIENCE AND COMPUTING BUILDING ENGINEERING AND ENERGY BUILDING LONERAGAN BUILDING ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE PHYSICAL SCIENCES BUILDING CHANCELLERY BUILDING Banksia Court LIBRARY SOUTH WING LIBRARY NORTH WING THE BROADWALK Bush Court TAVERN BANKSIA TERRACE SOUTH STREET, MURDOCH VET SURGICAL CENTRE BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES BUILDING ANIMAL HOUSE GLASS HOUSES Murdoch College PERTH CITY CENTRE PRE-DEPARTURE GUIDE MURDOCH INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY Campus map Kaplan Higher Education Pty Ltd. ABN 85 124 217 670, trading as Murdoch Institute of Technology. Registered as a Higher Education Provider. CRICOS: 03127E.