Insider Guides - International Student Guide Sydney Edition 2013 by Insider Guides

International Student Guide

INSIDER GUIDES

Sydney 2013

International Student Guide

Sydney 2013

Free!

are you planning to continue studying or working in australia? IELTS is accepted for study, professional registration and migration in Australia. Be better prepared IDP Education is a proud owner of IELTS and provides free test advice and preparation materials at IELTSessentials.com/insider. From here you can: - check the IELTS requirements of your chosen institution or profession - find an IELTS test centre near you - download a free IELTSessentials pack - register for a free IELTS Masterclass and more... Did you know?

IDP Education also offers student placement services. Our counsellors can help you:

WIn a

- register for an IELTS test - select the right institution - apply to your chosen institution - submit your visa application To find an IDP office near you, visit www.idp.com/studyabroad

IELTSessentials.com/insider

S Book! ELT I EE We have 40 Official IELTS Practice Materials books (valued at $44.00 each) to give away to the first 20 readers who email ieltsessentials@idp.com

IDP Education is partly owned by 38 Australian universities.

Never be Bored Again.

Australia Student Guide

Ever. Local students know how to enjoy Australian cities. Now itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your turn.

Locals maintain the free Australia Student Guide app so you can discover the best nightlife, student specials, events, adventures, shops, experiences and more.

Welcome We know moving to a new country to study is both exciting and frightening. We are here to help. Insider Guides - International Student Guide is designed to help new students discover what to love about Sydney. To do this, we recruited local students, interviewed past international students and researched the city. The aim of the guide is to give you with the tools to discover your new home from the inside out. Throughout the next 112 pages, you will discover how the locals already enjoy Sydney, now it’s your turn. We have also launched a free smart phone app called ‘Australia - Student Guide’ on iPhone and Android. This is the best way to discover new places and experiences in Sydney, with a constantly updated calendar of events picked just for you, the international student in Sydney. The Insider Guides Team

Contents Your New City Academic History Fun Facts Getting Around Sydney’s Villages The Australian Flag Indigenous Australia Aussie Cultural Diversity

10 11 11 12 16 18 21 22

Setting-up & First Steps Need to Knows Accommodation Decking Out Your New Pad The Right Accommodation Getting Connected Finding a Job Banking & Money Staying Healthy When Things Break

24 25 26 28 30 32 34 36 41 42

Shopping Need to Knows Shop Spots Your Local Shops Books, Music & Movies Clothing & Accessories Student Supplies Markets & Vintage Stores

44 45 46 48 50 54 58 60

Eat & Drink Need to Knows Eat & Drink Spots Aussie Cuisine

62 63 66 68

Aussie Cuisine Coffee Culture Cafés & Breakfasts Budget Eats Casual Restaurants Pubs & Student Hangouts Cocktail Bars Nightclubs Late Night Eats Recycling

68 70 72 73 74 76 78 79 80 81

Entertainment Need to Knows Live Sports Live Music Net Cafés, Gaming Arcades & Karaoke Cinemas Galleries Theatre & Live Arts Events Calendar

82 83 84 86

Adventure Need to Knows Cheap & Free Activities Group Activities Local Sites Day Trips Weekend Trips Wildlife Beaches Discover Australia

98 99 100 102 104 107 108 109 110 112

88 89 90 92 94

“Bike riding need not be just a means of transportation. It can be a brilliant way to express yourself creatively.” Kitiya, Designer

sydneycycleways.net

facebook.com/sydneycycleways

Lord Mayor’s Welcome On behalf of the people who live and work here, it is my pleasure to welcome you to Sydney - one of the most exciting and diverse cities in the world.

With a lifestyle that is second-to-none, Sydney is Australia’s most exciting education destination. We have leading research facilities and instructors, giving overseas students great educational opportunities. Sydney offers fantastic experiences at cafés, shops, bars and restaurants as well as some of the best and most inspiring arts, culture and natural environments to be found anywhere in Australia.

Sydney is a city that is alive with opportunity and possibility. While you study here, you will be able to enjoy sport and cultural events, including our spectacular New Year’s Eve celebrations and the biggest Chinese New Year celebrations held outside Asia. This dynamic, accessible and safe city is just waiting to be explored – and this guide will help you discover it.

We have a plan to improve Sydney. We’re on track to reduce our carbon pollution by 70% of 2006 levels by 2030. We have planted thousands of trees in our streets and parks to provide shade, habitat for animals and cool our city. We’ve set aside $180 million to turn George Street into a pedestrian and public transport boulevard, and our growing bike network has seen an 82% jump in the number of people riding bikes. I hope you take the opportunity to use our network of safe, separated cycleways across Sydney. We’re encouraging art and culture and we’re also making Sydney a safer place late at night so that you can enjoy yourself wherever you are. Welcome to our great city. Lord Mayor of Sydney Clover Moore

/cityofsydney

Useful Contacts When you’re setting yourself up and settling into a new country, you’re bound to have a few questions. These are some of the places you can go to get those answers. There are also emergency numbers and services to call if you get into trouble.

Police

Study in Australia

This is the non-urgent number for police assistance. Their website also has information about how to keep yourself safe.

Provides basic information about studying in Australia, including information about the universities and listings of useful contacts.

13 14 44 www.police.nsw.gov.au

Department of Immigration This is the department that handles visa inquiries and issues. www.immi.gov.au

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) DFAT can help you find your country’s embassy within Australia. www.dfat.gov.au

Australian Human Rights Commission Discrimination against people because of their race, descent, colour or ethnic/ national origin is against the law in Australia. If you feel you are being treated unfairly because of your race, you can make a complaint with the Australian Human Rights Commission. If you want to make a complaint, head to: www.humanrights.gov.au/racial_ discrimination

www.studyinaustralia.gov.au

Australian Tax Office The Australian Tax Office is the place to contact about getting a Tax File Number and to find out more about payments made to you while you’re here. www.ato.gov.au

Fair Work Ombudsman If you are being discriminated against at work or you think that you are working in bad conditions, and if you can’t sort out the issue with your employer, you can contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for help. www.fairwork.gov.au

Consumer and Business Services (and Tenancy Advice) This office has detailed information about what your obligations and entitlements are when buying products and services. It also has some useful info about what to do if you think you have been cheated out of your money. 13 32 20

www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au

Legal Services Commission A free service that tells you about legal rights. 1300 888 529

www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au

Australian Consumer Law Make sure you are getting a fair deal when shopping or purchasing services. Find out what your legal rights are. www.consumerlaw.gov.au

Migrant Resource Centre This centre has support services to help you sort out issues you may have while living here and can provide useful facilities and social support. 9663 3922

Transport InfoLine (Public Transport Services) Find out about trains, buses and trams, including ticketing information, timetables and more. 13 15 00 www.131500.com.au

Roads & Maritime Services If you plan to drive around Sydney, find out about the road rules and what you need to get yourself into a car. www.rta.nsw.gov.au

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Healthdirect Australia

Redfern Legal Centre Redfern Legal Centre (RLC) is an independent, non-profit community centre dedicated to promoting social justice and human rights. They offer free legal advice, referral and casework to disadvantaged people living in the City of Sydney, Botany Bay and Leichhardt local government areas.

A free helpline with trained staff who can help you to treat non-urgent illnesses when the doctor is not open. 1800 022 222

Beyond Blue An information service you can ring if you are feeling depressed or anxious, their website also has great tips for coping with stress.

9698 7277

www.rlc.org.au

1300 224 636

Shopfront

www.beyondblue.org.au

The Shopfront Youth Legal Centre is a free service for homeless and disadvantaged young people aged 25 years and under. The Shopfront is based in inner-city Sydney at 356 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, however are able to assist people living outside this area.

Lifeline If you need someone to talk to about your mental health, this resource is a crisis support hotline. 13 11 14 www.lifeline.org.au

City of Sydney

www.theshopfront.org

The Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website has all the services, facilities and events happening in the City Centre and surrounding suburbs.

Overseas Student Ombudsman The Overseas Students Ombudsman investigates complaints about problems that overseas students have with private education and training in Australia.

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

City of Sydney Youth Services The City delivers six youth programs across the City of Sydney local government area which deliver recreational, education and vocational programs including activities such as drop-in, cooking classes and oz-tag. /cityofsydneyyouth

City of Sydney Community Centres The City of Sydney provides a network of Recreation and Learning Centres, including Ultimo Community Centre, Redfern Community Centre, Pyrmont Community Centre, King George V Recreation Centre in The Rocks, Pine Street Creative Arts Centre in Chippendale and Juanita Nielsen Community Centre in Woolloomooloo. These centres host activities ranging from sports, fitness and martial arts through to adult education, art classes, sporting competitions, youth programs and childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s services.

1300 362 072

www.oso.gov.au

Emergencies (Police, Fire, Ambulance)

Triple Zero (000) If you are in danger and need help, ring this number to get the police, an ambulance or a fire engine to you urgently. Be ready to say which service you need and where you are. If you can, give the operator the Street number and the name of the nearest intersection.

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Your New City

Introduction Sydney is Australia’s most famous city and it’s easy to see why! Set on the iconic Sydney Harbour and surrounded by some of the country’s best beaches, Sydney is a visual feast, teeming with activities, places to see and great food and drink. Sydney was the site of the first British colony in Australia. Sydney is the homeland to the Gadigal people, who are thought to have lived in the cove for at least 30,000 years prior to British settlement. Sydney is now home to 4.6 million people who live in the costal basin that extends to the Blue Mountains in the west, the Hawkesbury River in the north and a national park to the south. With these beautiful natural

surrounds, Sydney has an equally appealing cityscape, with some of the country’s most iconic buildings: the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. With a pleasant climate, Sydney has a mild winter and warm summers. This has led to the development of an active beach culture, with the famous Bondi and Coogee beaches attracting a constant stream of visitors, swimmers, sunbakers and surfers all year round. As the country’s most populous city, Sydney has a strong cultural life, with many bars and restaurants serving cuisines that reflect Sydney’s multicultural community. There are also many local theatres, cinemas and live music venues that attract both local and headline international acts.

Your New City

As a true hub of the nation, Sydney is the city to visit if you want to experience everything that Australia is today. After the discovery by Captain James Cook, the city was settled in 1788 by Arthur Phillip as a convict settlement. Not long after, there was a catastrophic disease outbreak among the Gadigal people, which, combined with other factors related to British colonisation, has left few of the city’s original people as residents. However, Sydney still has a strong Aboriginal community.

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Academic History Sydney’s first University, the University of Sydney was established in 1850 and remains the city’s largest uni. It was followed by the establishment of the University of Technology, the University of New South Wales, Macquarie University, the University of Western Sydney and the Australian Catholic University. Sydney consistently ranks in the top 10 most liveable cities in the world, and

receives 2.7 million international visitors a year. Sydney has been home to many internationally famous people, including Russell Crowe, Mel Gibson, Nicole Kidman, Cate Blanchett and Baz Lurhmann, many of whom studied at the well-renowned National Institute of Dramatic Arts (NIDA). Sydney’s Conservatorium of Music has taught some of the country’s most prestigious

classical musicians, while bands such as The Whitlams and You Am I have created a world-famous ‘Sydney sound’ in popular music. The 19th century saw Sydney as a city grow significantly, as the edges of the city expanded further north, west and south. Currently, Sydney spans hundreds of kilometres and is inhabited by 4.6 million people.

Fun Facts When first European settlers arrived in Sydney, they drank more alcohol per head of population than any other people in the history of mankind.

Sydney’s famous Sydney Opera House is covered in 6,233 square metres of topazcoloured glass, and a staggering 1,056,006 roof tiles, all made in Sweden.

Sydney Fish Markets rank second in the world for their variety of catches – and Insider Guides can assure you that they’re all pretty tasty!

Sydney wasn’t always called Sydney – in fact, it was called ‘New Albion’ when Arthur Phillip first discovered the area.

The average Australian The average Australian male lives to 79 and the average female lives to 84.

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Your New City

Getting Around Although it can seem confusing at first, Sydney’s public transport system can help you get around the whole city for relatively little cash. It can take a couple of days to get used to the numbering systems, but Insider Guides is here to help you get to uni - whether it be on a train, bus, light rail or ferry.

Tickets In Sydney, you can pay for your transport by pre-paid ticketing or cash. Pre-paid ticketing is becoming the more popular option and is being phased in throughout the city. While there are concession tickets available for those with a student ID card, these discounts do not apply to international students.

Pre-Paid Ticketing In most of the Sydney metro area, between 7am–7pm on weekdays you can only use a pre-paid transport ticket to jump on buses. At other times, you can still use your spare change to get on board.

MyMulti By purchasing a MyMulti ticket, you get unlimited travel for the selected travel zone on trains, buses, light-rail and government ferry services. You can buy weekly, monthly or yearly MyMulti tickets – they vary in price depending on how many ‘zones’ you need to travel in, getting more expensive the further your regular trips go. How does it work? On all forms of Sydney transport, you’ll need to validate your ticket by inserting it into either an entry gate or bus validator – normally a green box next to the driver. A MyMulti ticket will only be valid for the period or number of trips you have purchased it for. How much is a MyMulti? MyMultis vary in price depending on how long you purchase it for and how far you have to travel – starting at $21.50 for a concession weekly ticket for only one zone and heading right up to $2,000 for a yearly three-zone travel ticket. MyFerry, MyTrain and MyBus These are the traditional magnetic tickets used on buses, trains and trams, and are stamped when you use them. You can buy single-ride tickets or ten rides per card.

Go online Find the best way to get from A-B in Sydney with the 131500 online journey planner. www.131500.com.au/plan-your-trip

Your New City

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Sydney Transport Sydney Transport manages public travel throughout the city, and encompasses the city’s ferry services, CityRail train lines and buses and light rail. You’ll find Sydney transport hubs at both Circular Quay and Central Station, with helpful staff who’ll point you in the right direction for tickets, timetables and which train to jump on. You can also call the transport infoline on 13 15 00 or head to www.131500.com.au

Buses The best way to get anywhere is by a bus. Buses service almost all parts of Sydney and its outer suburbs, so it’s pretty likely there’ll be a bus stop near you. Where will they take me? There are bus services for all areas of Sydney, right out to the far western suburbs, north and south. You can tell which route a bus will follow by the number displayed on the top of the bus window. How often do they come?

Trains The train system is a good way of getting to the outer suburbs and around the CBD quickly. Check if there’s a train station near you. Where will they take me? There are several train lines from the Sydney Central Railway Station that head east, north, west and south from the CBD. There are plenty of stations along each line, so check out the timetable to see if any are close to where you live. How often do they come? Trains run roughly every five-60 minutes, and less often for more regional locations.

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Buses around Sydney vary in arrival times, usually averaging between five15 minutes at popular bus stops and ranging up to an hour in the outer suburbs. Buses also come less frequently late at night. You’ll need a timetable to figure these out. Posted at each bus stop you’ll see a listing explaining the route each bus number follows What does the number mean? Each bus has a number and goes a slightly different way to other buses. Most of the areas have a similar number that services the various routes e.g. the buses that travel throughout the Inner West district include the 422, the 423, and 428. If the bus you catch has an L or X somewhere in the number, be careful! Some of these buses are express buses, meaning they won’t stop at certain bus stops. Check with the driver if you’re unsure.

Your New City

Ferries The Sydney Ferry system is one of the prettiest ways to get around the city, taking advantage of the city’s harbour port and river system. Tickets are a little more expensive but worth it for the scenery. Where will they take me? Ferries cover almost every suburb that’s fronted by Sydney Harbour, including Manly, Balmain, Circular Quay and even extend as far as Parramatta. How often do they come? Ferries tend to come every 10 to 20 minutes. Taking a ferry from Circular Quay to Manly is a must-do in Sydney, as you glide past the Harbour Bridge and Opera House.

Bikes If you have a bike, consider riding in the city – it’s the most environmentally responsible way to get around. Some parts of Sydney are bike friendly, but be sure that you know your rights and responsibilities before you take to riding on the road with cars - and make sure you wear a helmet, it’s illegal not to! Most universities will have bicycle bays where you can lock your bike safely.

Taxis Although they might be the way to travel in other countries, taxis are an expensive way of getting around in Sydney. Most people use them late at night when there aren’t many other transport options or if they’ve no other choice. You’ll find Taxi ranks located around the city – these are specific areas where you can line up and get a taxi, otherwise you can try hailing one from the side of the road. It’s also a good idea to be wary of how much your trip will cost. Make sure you have enough cash and there can be extra fees if you’re heading to the airport, or if you make a mess in the cab. You also get charged a 10 per cent average fee if you pay by card.

Taxi Numbers Legion Cabs 13 14 51

Silver Service 13 31 00

Yellow Cabs 13 19 24

Village to village bus The village to village shuttle buses run every Thursday and Friday (excluding public holidays) and are operated by South Sydney Community Transport. This is a free service, open to everyone, on two routes (Redfern to Broadway; Woolloomooloo to Redfern). Check out the link below for more information: www.villagetovillage.com.au

Your New City

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Staying Safe The police in Australia are friendly and helpful, have a duty to protect everyone and can always be safely approached. You are likely to meet your local police officers during your orientation period; they are there to help you! NSW Police and City of Sydney are committed to helping you reduce your risk of crime to ensure that you enjoy your stay and studies here as much as possible. Here are a few practical things you can do help yourself stay safe.

Safety Tips •

Be alert, assertive and confident

•

Try to walk with other people rather than by yourself

•

Carry only the money you need for the day

•

Keep your money and wallet in your front pocket and keep your bag in front of you

•

Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid text messaging and long conversations on your mobile

•

At night stay in well lit areas, where there are lots of people

•

Plan your trip by bus, train or ferry at www.131500.com.au or 13 15 00

•

If you feel like you are being followed or threatened, cross the street, change direction, vary your pace and enter a shop or occupied house

•

If you are being robbed: give them what they ask for, try to remember what they look like

•

Report all crimes to police (interpreter services are available, advice police which language you would like to speak and an interpreter will be provided).

Reporting Crimes to Police It is important to report all crimes to police. In emergency situations contact Triple Zero (000) for police, fire or ambulance. For non emergencies, you can contact the Police Assistance Line on 13 14 44 or go to your nearest police station. You can find your nearest police station here: www.police.nsw.gov.au NSW Police are on Facebook! NSW Police are on Facebook!

/nswpoliceforce

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Your New City City

Sydney’s Villages The City of Sydney’s villages are a degustation meal in themselves. You will find each has its own distinctive flavour and following. Glebe and Newtown Students will love the cool bohemian vibe of Glebe whilst nearby Newtown you will get to experience a retro buzz that has a mass cult following seven days a week. Surry Hills Step off at Central Station and you immediately hit the thriving streets of Surry Hills where hip coffee lovers fill the cafés with tales from their design and creative studios. On the first Saturday of every month, the Surry Hills Market in Shannon Reserve on Crown Street offers vintage clothing and bric-a-brac and is a must-see for students. Darlinghurst, Kings Cross, Potts Point and Paddington Nearby Darlinghurst and Kings Cross offer an array of great night spots while Macleay Street in Potts Point is now home to a raft of trendy cafés and food stores. Oxford Street, famed for hosting the city’s annual Mardi Gras, offers a number of bustling shopping spots which include popular books stores and upmarket fashion boutiques dotted along the Paddington end. Redfern, Waterloo and Pyrmont Redfern and Waterloo, two areas attracting a resurgence of interest, offer new and retro furniture stores and factory outlets and the nearby Everleigh Markets are an essential stop if you are into organic food, arts

and crafts. Venture back through the Chippendale creative hub with its trendy cafés and cross Broadway to the Pyrmont Peninsula. Taste fresh seafood at the lively fish markets or breathe in the history of the area with its refurbished wharves and upmarket apartments built into sandstone cliffs. Walsh Bay and Millers Point Art students will want to explore Walsh Bay just around the corner from The Rocks. Walsh Bay has built a reputation as a major performing arts hub with theatres, dance studios and acting schools located on and within its historic wharves. Haymarket and Ultimo Last but not least, is Haymarket and Ultimo, located within Sydney’s main educational hub, and two areas most frequented by students. You will find great value cuisines along Broadway, and Chinatown with its abundance of eateries will have you lining up again and again. Don’t forget to fit in a trip to Paddy’s Markets as it is one Sydney’s most sought after attractions. To ensure you get to experience all of what Sydney has to offer, sign up for the City of Sydney’s What’s On which will deliver details of the fantastic line-up of festivals in the city throughout the year to your inbox. whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Slices of Sydney is available at city kiosks, visitor information centres and selected businesses. For more information call (02) 9265 9333 or visit cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

While in Sydney, pick up a copy of Slices of Sydney, a free booklet with an inspiring degustation of the distinct flavours of each of the ten Sydney villages featured. Then go exploring!

Get a taste of our Sydney Villages N

The Australian Flag The Aussie Flag, like every country’s flag, holds a lot of cultural significance. The flag came into being after each of the states joined together to form the Commonwealth of Australia in 1901. The flag’s design was selected as part of a competition in 1901 – five winners (including two teenagers) shared in the £200 prize.

2 3

The Commonwealth Star

Also known as the ‘Star of Federation’. It has seven points to represent the six states and combined territories of Australia. The seventh point was only added in 1990.

The Union Jack

This is the symbol of Australia’s ties with Great Britain. As a member of the Commonwealth, it is one of only five other countries with the Union Jack on their flag.

The Southern Cross

These five stars represent the Southern Cross constellation – a significant navigational star in the southern hemisphere.

Each of the states and territories around Australia have their own flags as well, each containing the Union Jack, and a badge containing something unique. The flag of New South Wales contains a white disc with the cross of Saint George.

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Never be Bored Again.

Australia Student Guide

Ever. Local students know how to enjoy Australian cities. Now itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your turn.

Locals maintain the free Australia Student Guide app so you can discover the best nightlife, student specials, events, adventures, shops, experiences and more.

Your rights in Australia Under Australian law you are protected from discrimination, harassment and bullying in many areas of public life such as employment, education, accommodation, sport and the provision of goods and services. The Australian Human Rights Commission can investigate and resolve complaints of discrimination, harassment and bullying based on: • race • sex • disability • age • sexual preference, criminal record, trade union activity, political opinion, religion or social origin (in employment only). For free and confidential information about your rights or to make a complaint about discrimination, call the Commission’s Complaint Information Service on 02 9284 9888, 1300 656 419 (local call) or 1800 620 241 (TTY). If you require an interpreter, call 13 14 50 and ask for the Australian Human Rights Commission. For more information, go to: www.humanrights.gov.au

The Principles to promote and protect the human rights of international students is a guide produced by the Australian Human Rights Commission which explains how your human rights can be promoted and protected while you are in Australia. The Principles are available at: www.humanrights.gov.au/racial_discrimination/international_students.html

Aboriginal Australia Before European colonisation in 1788, Australia’s population was made up entirely of the Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders. There were hundreds of communities around the country that spoke several different languages and held different beliefs while upholding various common traditions and practices.

It’s important to appreciate that the European or Western way of life that you now see in Australia is a relatively new concept (only a few hundred years old). The Aboriginal population has inhabited Australia for over 60,000 years. Today, elements of Aboriginal culture can be found in many areas of modern Australian life. Aboriginal art, music, people, stories and history are an important part of our national identity. Land ownership To the Aboriginal people of Australia, the concept of land ownership that Western cultures have (i.e. buying and selling land) is very different from their own.

Their relationship with the land was, and remains, at the core of their spirituality. Land is not viewed as something that a person could “own”. As this society and land ownership system was not respected by the British, Australia was viewed as ‘terra nullius’ (“land belonging to no one”) and the land was colonised. Today, some important legal milestones have been reached in the area of Aboriginal land rights, which indicate that cultural sensitivity and respect can dictate how Australia moves forward. Experiencing Australian culture If you’re interested in learning more about this

incredible rich and diverse culture, we highly recommend visiting your local museum to discover how Aboriginal Australians used tools, shared stories over generations, created spectacular artwork and lived off the land. If you’re planning a trip, you might like to consider Uluru in the Northern Territory to learn about this remarkable natural wonder and its importance to the local Aboriginal community. A local Anangu guide can give you a rich insight into this part of the world. You could even head to Alice Springs to check out Aboriginal art galleries, or even the Kimberleys in Western Australia and discover some rock art.

Black: Represents the Aboriginal clans of Australia. Red: Represents the red earth and the red ochre, which symbolises a spiritual relationship with the land. Yellow: Represents the sun, the provider of life and the protector of people.

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Your New City

Aussie Cultural Diversity It’s no secret that Australia is one of the most multicultural countries in the world: people from all over the world have emigrated here, vibrantly shaping the Australia we experience today.

Asian

British

Indian

Australia has a large Asian population, which started growing back in the 1850s with the Australian gold rush. In 1861, just after the height of the gold rush, Chinese immigrants made up 3.3 percent of the population. Since then, the number has continued to rise, with Australia now home to well over 200,000 Chinese residents. The second most commonly spoken language at home in Australia is Mandarin. Other Asian countries have also made a significant impact on the Australian lifestyle, with an increasing number of residents from Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia and Hong Kong.

Australia was settled by the British, so our association with England and Great Britain goes back a long way. Captain Cook discovered the country back in 1788 and a variety of English, Irish and Scottish migrants made their way to Australia. More than a million residents currently living in Australia were born in the United Kingdom. British culture can be seen everywhere in Australia – our fondness for cricket, our flag, our language and our love for a quenching ale.

Indian migration to Australia is one of the more recent patterns of immigration. Over 153,000 Australian residents were born in India according to the most recent Census. However, it’s said some of the first settlers were Indian convicts transported by the British Colonial Government in India back in 1788! A large portion of Indian migrants also arrived in Australia during the gold rush. Since then, the Indian culture has been bolstered by a strong student intake each year.

Your New City

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European While there were some European cultures that made their way to Australia in its early years, it wasn’t until after World War II that Europe started changing the face of Australia. With so many displaced people after the War, ethnicities from all over Europe made their way to the country. The influences of Italian and Greek cultures can be found almost everywhere, as well as German, Polish and Eastern European nationalities, and nowhere is this more obvious than in Australian cuisine. Australians have embraced all manner of European cuisine!

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Your New City

For

Leas

Setting up & First Steps Removalists

Introduction Before you can start exploring and enjoying everything this place has to offer, there are a few necessary things to sort out. These are basic things, like where you’re going to live. Will you be living in private accommodation, or perhaps with an Australian family?

Next on the list is getting connected. It’s pretty hard to study and keep in touch with your family back home if you don’t have any internet access or a phone contact. There are plenty of different options when it comes to getting connected, so you shouldn’t have too much trouble setting yourself up.

Once you’ve sorted out your living situation, there’s the all-important furnishing of your home. Where can you find cheap furniture? What sort of things should you be buying anyway?

Of course, if you’re going to be living in Australia for a while, you’re going to need a source of income – and nobody likes relying on Mum and Dad forever. Finding a job is a great way to experience more of

the Australian culture and meet more of the locals, not to mention improve your English and gain some quality experience. If you’ve never applied for a job before, look no further than here for all the tips and tricks you’ll need to secure that part-time position. Money is also a crucial part of living in Australia. Luckily there are plenty of different options for storing and accessing your money – you won’t need to keep your cash under your mattress.

The average Australian Based on a recent survey, six out of 10 British families want to move to Australia.

Setting-up

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Need to Knows Second-hand One of the best tips for any new student is to try and live cheaply. You want to have enough money to spend exploring your new city, so if you can find bargains on the essentials, you’ll be off to a good start. A lot of second-hand shops are run by charities like the Red Cross or the Salvation Army. There is sure to be some low-priced preloved furniture you can give a new home. Otherwise keep an eye on your university pin boards – other international students usually try to sell their bigger items before they head back home.

Garage Sales People often like to get rid of their old belongings by holding a garage sale. People will set up their things in their driveway and sell them. Sometimes you can pick up a real bargain. Garage sales are usually held on the weekend – most people will create handwritten signs pointing to the address and put them on main roads, so pay attention.

Gumtree & The Trading Post These are great websites where people can sell just about anything - from old furniture to tickets to concerts. The good thing about these websites is you almost always need to meet the person selling you the goods – meaning you can check it out before you buy it and you don’t have to pay for delivery! It’s always a good idea to take a friend with you when you’re collecting your newly purchased item, just to be safe. www.gumtree.com.au www.tradingpost.com.au

Storage If you come to Australia and find you have a lot more stuff than you can store, you might need to look into storing it. There are plenty of places around that will store your stuff in a small garage for a period of time. It can get pretty pricey though, so make sure you do your research. Your place of study will be able to help you here.

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

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Accommodation Finding a place to live can be a scary process. Most problems arise between international students and their landlords because the students have not paid enough attention to the contract they have entered into. Some landlords will try to take advantage of you! Know what your rights are.

Do Your Own Inspections

Here are a few tips that will help you stay out of trouble:

There are three inspections you need to take seriously:

Read The Fine Print Check if you have entered under a fixed-term or a periodic tenancy. If you sign an agreement, you should receive a copy straight away. Keep this in a safe place so you can refer to it if a problem arises, along with a copy of all other documentation including receipts for all payments. Every part of your agreement should be in writing. A verbal agreement is not good enough proof of your tenancy terms.

Before you agree to rent, inspect the place. Do not agree to pay money to someone for a house you haven’t seen. You can tell a rental scam if you are not allowed to inspect a property, the documentation looks wrong, or they want you to send money overseas or to a PO Box. Before you move in, do a very careful inspection to check the condition of the house. Note as much as you can on any existing problems when you first receive your inspection sheet. It’s best to take dated photos of any damages. Keep a copy of all this documentation for yourself. This will help if you have to dispute any repairs with the landlord at the end of your stay.

Bond, House Bond In NSW, the landlord cannot charge you more than four weeks’ rent in advance. Be aware, there are a range of other issues you need to be aware of in regards to bond payments. Check out: www.tenants.org.au

Rent in Advance A landlord can ask for two weeks’ rent in advance at the start of your tenancy, but no more.

When you move out, make notes on the inspection sheet and take dated photos of everything again. It’s a good idea to have witnesses

to all these inspections, so grab a trusted friend to help you.

Utilities Make sure you agree with your landlord about your electricity, gas, internet, water usage, etc. Agree on exactly how much you are responsible for and any usage limits in writing before you begin renting. You cannot be charged for water sewerage charges, only water usage and the water supply charge.

End of Days Pay attention to the details regarding the ending of your tenancy agreement. If you leave without giving notice, you could be responsible for paying rent beyond the date you leave and have other issues! For more information or if you run into trouble with your landlord, call NSW Fair Trading. 13 32 20.

Accommodation apps Find your new rental property on your phone with either the Domain or Realestate app. Download now for free from the App Store and Google Play.

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www.insiderguides.com.au

commodation ac nt e ud st st e rg la e We are th d New Zealand an ia al tr us A in r e id prov

Our properties: • Are safe, fun and affordable • Offer independent student living options • Are close to universities • Have onsite management and building security • Have a Community Spirit Program where you can make new friends and do fun things together

For more information, visit

unilodge.com.au

Decking Out Your New Pad

Study

Bathroom

What will I need?

What will I need? • Towels • Bath mats • Toiletries Can I buy them cheaply? Absolutely. Get the towels, shower curtains and such from discount department stores like Kmart, Big W and Target. For everything else, you can pick them up from good supermarkets. What if I want to spend more money? You can head to upmarket department stores such as David Jones and Myer.

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• Desk & chair • Bookshelf • Computer Can I buy them cheaply? Yes. Find furniture from www.gumtree. com.au. You may need a trailer or a large car to get it to your place though. Alternatively, head to garage sales in your area on Saturday mornings. You can find out where they are in your local weekend newspaper. What if I want to spend more money? If you want to buy new furniture, you can head to IKEA. Or if you’re thinking about spending a bit more, you can go to places like Harvey Norman or Bing Lee. They also sell computers and electrical items there.

www.insiderguides.com.au

Bedroom What will I need? • Bed • Linen • Storage Can I buy them cheaply? Pick up the bed base, tables and storage from www.gumtree.com. au, but don’t buy second-hand mattresses. You can get good deals on new mattresses at places like Forty Winks (www.fortywinks.com.au). You can get some nice linen from Target and Big W too. What if I want to spend more money? For bits of furniture, head to The Good Guys and Harvey Norman. Just Google their locations in your city.

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Kitchen What will I need? • Dining table & chairs • Cutlery, crockery • Appliances Can I buy them cheaply? You can deck out a kitchen for quite cheap these days. Insider Guides recommends Target, Big W and Kmart for small electronic stuff like kettles and toasters. What if I want to spend more money? If you want to buy high-quality kitchenware, Myer and David Jones are good for this. They have a nice range of pots and pans too. For a good fridge, we recommend getting it new, as you’ll want an extended warranty for it.

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The Right Accommodation For You One of the first things you’ll need to think about after you’ve decided what you’re going to be studying in Australia is where you’ll live. There are a few options that you can choose from but make sure you do your research. Check with your institution about their recommended accommodation, and take into account your needs and budget before you lock in anything.

Homestay Student Apartments Most universities offer student apartments where you might share with a few other students or have your own room. What will I get? You’ll get fully furnished rooms, which can range from one to five bedrooms, a shared kitchen and bathroom. How much will it cost? It depends on the apartment, but you’ll be paying between $200 and $500 a week. What are some of the advantages? There’s a real emphasis on community. Some house over 400 students! Plus you don’t have to worry about furnishing your place. What are some of the disadvantages? It can be quite expensive and you have to pay for your internet use separately. Who should I talk to? www.unilodge.com.au www.urbanest.com.au

A homestay is where you live with an Australian family in their home while you study. You may live with a family, a couple or another person. What will I get? Depending on the family you stay with, you may get different facilities, but you’ll certainly get your own furnished bedroom. How much will it cost? Living with a family will probably cost between $250 and $300 a week. What are some of the advantages? You’ll get most of your meals provided, as well as internet and you won’t have to worry about setting up utilities or phone lines. What are some of the disadvantages? Sharing with a family might be frustrating, you may live quite far from your institution and you won’t get a sense of living independently. Who should I talk to? Check out the Australian Homestay Network. They can help you link up with a family, as well as answering important questions like how much it costs. www.homestaynetwork.org.au

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www.insiderguides.com.au

Residential Colleges Colleges are a great choice for international students as a lot of the basics are taken care of, and most colleges are only a short distance from the big universities. What will I get? At a residential college you’ll receive all your meals, as well as a weekly room clean. You’ll get yourself a fully furnished bedroom, plus access to Wi-Fi, library facilities and tutors. How much will it cost? It depends on the college you choose, but most colleges cost between $285 and $410 a week. What are some of the advantages? It’s a great way to meet lots of different people and utilities and internet are often included in the price. What are some of the disadvantages? Sharing bathrooms can be frustrating, you’re often locked into a yearly contract and there’s such a strong social aspect you might find it hard to concentrate. Who should I talk to? Check your college or uni website first – they’ll point you in the direction of the right colleges. You can then check out their websites and find out all the important information.

Renting & Share Houses This is true independent living – renting an apartment or a house either alone or with housemates. What will I get? Renting a place means you have more control. You have to pay for everything though, including furniture, food, utilities as well as rent. How much will it cost? $100-$400 a week – depending on how many you share with and where you live. That usually doesn’t include bills, and it definitely doesn’t cover any food costs. What are some of the advantages? Independent living is great and you can meet a whole bunch of new people, plus you’ve a lot more control of your living arrangement. What are some of the disadvantages? Paying for everything, including furniture and all utilities can be tough and it can get lonely if you’re living by yourself. Who should I talk to? As renting is a private matter, your institution won’t have much to do with this. But it’s a good idea to check out the Study Australia website – they can give you all the information you’ll need about renting and how to find a place. www.studyinaustralia.gov.au

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Setting-up

Getting Connected So you’ve just landed in Australia and you’re wondering what to do next. You’ll probably want to talk to your family back home as soon as you can to let them know you’ve arrived safely and to hear a familiar voice. Getting connected is pretty easy in Australia if you know what to do.

Wi-Fi In Australia, there are plenty of places that offer free wireless. You can often find Wi-Fi hotspots in some airports, cafés, public libraries, McDonalds and your campus (although you may have to sign up to use these – check with your campus first). If you’re struggling to find a connection anywhere, there are a few Wi-Fi-Finder apps on smartphones. Just head over to one of these spots, pull up a chair and connect to the web – too easy!

Mobile Broadband and 3G Obviously there will be times when you can’t use free wireless, so another option is to use a wireless dongle. A dongle is a small USB that you plug into your computer and are usually sold by phone companies like Virgin Mobile or Vodafone. These are prepaid (you can get some for $29 for 30 days all the way up to $79 for 100 days) and are excellent for short-term use. You can also connect your phone to your laptop and use your phone’s 3G connection (don’t use it too much! – most phone plans have a low data allowance).

Setting-up

Home Internet A more long-term solution is to sign up to an internet contract if you’re living in a house. There are a whole range of different plans and contracts out there, so make sure you do your research and choose the right one for you. Try to find one that includes a wireless modem or router, otherwise you’ll have to buy one separately. Plans usually include a download limit, and the higher the cost per month, the more downloads you receive. You can often sign up for a year or more and the longer you sign up for, the cheaper it gets. We recommend getting Naked ADSL (uses your land line) as, let’s be honest, who uses land line phones these days?

Popular internet providers: Internode: www.internode.on.net Optus: www.optus.com.au Telstra: www.telstra.com.au

www.insiderguides.com.au

Skype

Mobile (Cell) Phones

If you prefer to see as well as hear your loved ones back home, Skype is certainly your best option. Combining video and sound, it’s basically a video call and, best of all it’s free if the person you’re calling has Skype too. So make sure your family signs up back home to keep things cheap. Just visit the Skype website, download the software and you’re done! Another voice-based option is Skype credit which also allows you to call foreign mobiles at great rates.

Living in Australia, almost everyone has a mobile phone and chances are you had one back home. Unfortunately, that one might not work here, as it may be locked to your provider back home. There are ways around this, but most short-term travellers will often purchase a cheap mobile phone on a pre-paid deal, meaning you pay for what you use and aren’t locked into any sort of monthly contract. You can buy these pre-paid SIM cards (and rechargeable credit) from almost anywhere – supermarkets, service stations and mobile phone outlets.

www.skype.com

Alternatively, if you’re here for a while, you can sign up to a plan, which can often provide greater value (and better phones), but comes with a fixed-term contract (usually 24 months).

Viber & WhatsApp

Phone Cards If your parents aren’t very computer savvy, perhaps a phone call might be easier. To keep your costs down, make sure you buy a phone card – it’s about 80 percent cheaper than calls from a home phone. www.aussiephonecards.com.au

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

If you have a smartphone, there are a few apps out there that can help you save your money communicating with friends and family. Viber is a great app which uses all your existing contacts. It lets you make calls and send messages – all for free. It uses your 3G connection to connect with other Viber users, so it’s a great alternative to other methods. Best of all, it works with any network and any operating system (Android, Windows and iOS).

Setting-up

Finding a Job While you’re staying in Australia, chances are you’re going to need to support yourself financially. One of the ways you’ll be able to do that is by getting a job. We’ve highlighted some of the important steps involved.

Decide Why should I get a job? Working has a number of benefits apart from just money. Getting a job in Australia means you’ll get to meet new people, as well as improve your English. You’ll also gain valuable experience. How much can I work? International students studying full time in Australia for more than three months automatically receive a work visa when you apply for your Australian student visa. This means you can work for up to 40 hours a fortnight during the semester and an unlimited amount during term breaks. What sort of job should I get? Most students find work in retail or hospitality industries because of the flexible hours they offer. This includes working at a supermarket or waiting tables at a local restaurant. Always investigate Occupational Health and Safety and Responsible Service of Alcohol regulations.

Hunt How do I find a job? First things first, get your résumé polished and start door knocking on businesses you want to work at. Expect to get knocked back by 90 percent of them, but this is a great way to get your name in front of the managers and staff as it shows that you’re keen. Where can I go to find work? If you don’t have any luck in person, try these websites. www.seek.com.au www.careerone.com.au www.indeed.com.au

Where else can I go to find work? If you can’t find anything online, you could always try looking at your institution. Many universities and colleges also have online job boards.

Setting-up

www.insiderguides.com.au

Prepare Do I need a tax file number? Yes you do. A Tax file number means you won’t be taxed at a higher rate. You just have to fill out a form online and have your passport handy. Visit www.ato.gov.au to apply for one. What else should I know? Many employers are very approachable people; so don’t be too nervous about asking lots of questions. Most will be happy to help you out. Just remember to be polite, punctual and willing to learn. What happens if I get in trouble? While most businesses in Australia try to keep their employees happy, some might try to underpay or overwork you. If you think something’s not right, you can always call the Fair Work Ombudsman on 13 13 94 or visit the website at www.fairwork.gov.au. They can advise you about what to do next.

Apply How do I apply for a job? If you’ve found the job on the internet, chances are you’ll be able to apply directly through the website. Do I need to include a résumé? If you’ve found a job in person, most places will ask you to send them a résumé. A résumé is basically a record of your previous work experience. Keep your resume short and include a reference – a previous employer or someone who has seen you work or study. Try asking a friendly tutor. I’ve been offered an interview, now what? Congratulations! If you’ve managed to get an interview, you’re almost there. It’s always a good idea to prepare for an interview – get a friend to ask you some questions about your skills and your experience, and practice answering them.

The average Australian The average weekly income in Australia is $1396.70 for a man and $1150.20 for a woman.

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Setting-up

Banking & Money If you’re going to be living in Australia for a period of time, you’re going to need to have somewhere to safely keep your money. This is where having an Australian bank account is a good idea.

Setting up a Bank Account There are plenty of different banks available in Australia and there’s sure to be one that suits your needs. What should I bring? Head into the bank and explain that you’d like to open an account. Make sure you bring enough ID with you. Most banks will need to see your passport, visa, or driver’s licence (if you have one) as well as proof of address – you can bring a household bill. What do I get? You’ll get a bankcard – this is what you’ll use when you want to pay for something by EFTPOS or withdraw money from your account.

ATMs/Cash Points What are they? Automatic Teller Machines are a fast, easy and convenient way to take money out of your bank account. All you need to do is insert your bankcard, type in your PIN and select the amount you’d like to withdraw. Your card will pop out, along with your money and a receipt. Some ATMs also offer different language features. What are the fees? Most banks won’t charge you for using their ATM but if you use another bank’s ATM, you will be charged $2-$2.50. They call this a ‘disloyalty fee’. It’s also a good idea to avoid the smaller machines found in pubs, clubs and service stations as these will also charge a fee.

Online banking All of the major Australian banks allow you to transfer funds, pay bills and manage your accounts online. Be sure to ask for your internet banking options at your local branch.

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www.insiderguides.com.au

Money Transfer What do I need to do to receive money from overseas?

What do I need to do to send money overseas?

It’s your birthday and your parents want to send some cash to you in Australia as a gift from back home. You’re going to need to let them know a few things first.

You want to send a bit of money to your parents back home. There are a few things you’ll need from them before you can do an international money transfer.

Make sure you let them know your: Australian bank account name

Make sure you know their: Bank account name and account number The overseas bank ‘sort’ code

Australian bank account number and BSB (branch number)

International Bank Account Number (IBAN) (Europe only)

Address of the bank your account is with

SWIFT Code of the overseas bank

Australian bank SWIFT Code

Debit Cards An increasingly popular option among Australian locals is Visa or MasterCard debit cards. You can apply for these through your bank. It works just like a credit card and allows you to use credit services (i.e. online services), but it uses the money in your account. Be sure to check the fees and interest on any card before you decide to get one.

Notes and Coins It’s always a good idea to have some cash on you when travelling and a good way to do that is by converting your home currency into Australian Dollars (AUD). If you’ve some currency from back home and want to change it, head into your local post office. They’ll exchange it based on the current rates.

Traveller’s Cheques If you’ve brought some with you they can be easily exchanged for cash at your bank, or through Amex and Thomas Cook. Just make sure you bring your passport when you want to cash them.

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

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Welcome and best of luck this semester from your ANZ Student Banking Specialists. Whether you call Australia home, or you’ve come here to study, we can help you address your banking needs.

anz.com ® A-Z Review is a registered trademark of Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited (ANZ) ABN 11 005 357 522. ANZ’s colour blue is a trade mark of ANZ. Item No. 85379A 10.2011 W251263

At ANZ, we understand student life because we ask. When you have an A-Z Review® your needs come first. That’s how our Student Banking Specialists can recommend a banking solution to suit your lifestyle and goals from a broad range of everyday banking, savings, credit card, investment and insurance products and services. If you require assistance in a language other than English, we also have multilingual staff conveniently located at the following city branches. Come in and say, ‘hello’. Clarence St

Market St

Park St

Bathurst St

George

Elizabeth St Castlereagh St

r St

Sussex St

Harbou

Goulb

Dar

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Hay St

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• 205 Castlereagh Street • The Broadway Shopping Centre • 665-669 George Street • Corner York & Market Streets

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Broadway St

Other convenient locations with multilingual staff include: • Level 4, Macquarie Shopping Centre, Herring Road, North Ryde • Kingsford, 337 Anzac Parade

S VO TA TR UC AV PU HER EL RC UP HA ON SE

ENJOY MORE. Insider Guides has partnered with ISIC Cards and Student Edge to save you money here in Australia. Whether it be eating out, fashion, travel or even nightlife, the Insider Guides ISIC Card allows you to enjoy your new home cheaply!

Grab your card today for only $20 and have access to 41,000 discounts globally.

head to www.insiderguides.com.au for more details

Staying Healthy Your health can seem unimportant when you’re studying, but it needs to be a priority. Our Editor talked to Dr. Maggie Phillips about some important issues for international students.

Sexual Health Diet Students are more at risk of stomach upsets because of the high-party, high-stress lifestyle. Eating fast food can seem easy, but cooking meals that are low in fat and high in fibre is the best option. The better you eat, the better your body can use the energy for study. Don’t rely on high-caffeine ‘energy’ drinks. Have three solid meals a day and you will have plenty of energy. Take the time to prepare healthy meals at home.

Climate Australia is a dry country so you may need to adjust if you’re used to humidity. Showering too often will wash away the oils your skin needs for dry conditions. If you’re getting itchy, switch to moisturising soaps or use Sorbolene (moisturiser).

Sunlight Vitamin D deficiency is common and you may easily end up deficient if you are not spending much time in the sun. The easiest way to combat this is to spend more time in the sun – only 15 minutes a day is needed so take your books and sit outside while you study. Otherwise, you may need vitamin supplements.

You can get contraceptive medications and devices very easily and cheaply in Australia. Condoms are available from supermarkets and pharmacies. Emergency contraceptives are available from pharmacies if you need them. Take them within 24 hours for the most effective result. Pregnancy terminations are not easy to get in Australia. It can take weeks to organise, and late terminations can be difficult to arrange and expensive. www.stdservices.on.net

Mental Health Remember to take time out for yourself. If things seem too hard, talk to friends and family. Universities and colleges often have counselling services or you can use free services such as Beyond Blue and Lifeline. Make sure you talk to someone as soon as you feel like things are getting too hard to handle.

Clinic Hours Very few medical clinics are open seven days or have 24-hour services (and those that do can be expensive). If you need a medical certificate or you have a minor illness like a cold, wait until the doctor’s offices are open. You can also ring Healthdirect Australia to get advice about treating non-lifethreatening illnesses: 1800 022 222

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

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So you have your OSHC cover. It doesn’t cover you for everything. Some of the problems that students are often unaware of are:

Ambulance Cover

Some OSHC policies have gaps or limitations in ambulance cover. This means you may not be covered if you require an ambulance but you may not need to go to hospital. These bills can be hundreds of dollars, so be sure to check these ‘non-emergency’ situations with your provider!

Hospitals

If you need to go to a public hospital in a non-emergency situation or for an elective procedure, then call your OSHC provider and check that you will be covered. Remember to ask your OSHC provider where their nearest agreement hospital is. You should then give that hospital a call to confirm that you will be accepted as a patient with OSHC. There is nothing worse than getting some nasty administrative surprises when all you want is medical treatment! Remember, your OSHC may not cover you for private hospitals.

Complaints

If you face a situation where you feel like you’re being ripped off or unfairly treated in regards to your OSHC, you can call the Private Health Insurance Ombudsman (PHIO). It’s a free service designed to help you out of trouble! 1800 640 695

When Things Break Living away from home can be a lot of fun, but what happens when something goes wrong?

1 The taps are leaking If your taps are leaking, you can try tightening or replacing the seal or washer. The team at the hardware store can give you some good advice. If it’s more serious, your agent or landlord needs to know first as they should be paying for this. They will either organise a plumber to come over, or they may tell you to organise a plumber and they will pay you back.

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2 Your TV stopped working Assuming you bought the TV new and it’s under warranty, you’ll need to call the manufacturers or take it back to the store. If it’s not under warranty, you can either pay a repair person to fix it (which can cost a lot), or throw it out. If you want to throw it out, don’t dump it on the street!! Call your council and ask where you can dispose of it. Some councils have e-waste programs for this scenario.

3 You’ve spilled some red wine… 1. Pour salt/bicarb soda on it, wait until the powder turns red then remove it. Repeat until it stops going red. 2. Grab some paper towel and pat it around the edges to stop it spreading. Don’t rub or wipe. 3. Call a professional carpet cleaner if you need to (about $80).

Oven’s not working 1. Check the gas supply. If you have gas bottles, are they empty? 2. Call your agent or landlord and ask for a repair person to check it out.

6 Broken windows If you’ve accidentally broken a window, you need to get it fixed as soon as possible. Your landlord won’t pay for this, as it was your fault.

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Have a look online for a glazier – these guys can replace windows quickly and easily. Be ready to spend a bit of money though, they’re not cheap. Make sure you let your landlord know as well – they might be able to organise it with you.

5 Your furniture has become unusable Your couch may have been comfortable once upon a time, but now it’s horrible to sit on, and some of the springs are poking through. Getting rid of a couch can be as easy as making a phone call.

Broken fridge

1. Remove all of the perishables and put them into an Esky or an ice filled sink/tub.

Check your local council’s website for their ‘hard rubbish’ policy - most will be more than happy to come and collect your old couch for a small fee or for free (some councils do this free once or twice a year). Again, don’t just leave it out on the footpath or you will be fined!

2. Check the power point and electrical box to ensure it’s getting power. Make sure the doors are shutting properly and that the motor is running, if not, it is best to call a professional. 3. If it’s not worth fixing it, call your council to determine the best option to dispose of it. Don’t put it on the street or you’ll get a fine!

VINYL • CDs • DVDS • MOVIES

Clothing • Accessories

16B S A L E

OPEN

Shopping

PUSH

M U S I C

L E S S O N S

Introduction Whether you want to pick up souvenirs to send back home, furnish a new home or just buy some lunch, Sydney is the city to find whatever you need – and have fun while doing so! The city’s biggest ‘strip’ for shopping can be found at Pitt Street Mall, right in the centre of the CBD. Pitt Street Mall is lined with everything you might want – department stores, speciality clothing and gifts, snacks and more. While you wander along,

you’re likely to spot buskers attracting large crowds. Those with more upmarket tastes can find the highest fashions and designer labels on Oxford Street in Paddington, Double Bay and Rozelle. There are many tempting boutiques to be found. If alternative culture is your thing, head to King Street in Newtown, where you’ll find everything punk, rock and vintage – this is a fun way to find something a little more out there.

With its great weather, Sydney also boasts an impressive market culture, with weekly craft, fashion and food markets. Glebe’s Saturday markets are the place to head if you’d like to stock up on cheap vintage clothing or handmade household goods, while Sundays are perfect for Rozelle Markets antique treasures. For those feeling a little more peckish, Farmers Markets at both Bondi Beach and Eveleigh are sure to fill your belly.

Australia Student Guide Smartphone App With a continually updated events calendar for your city and showcasing some of the most exciting and interesting places and experiences, enjoying Australia has never been easier. Download now for free from the App Store and Google Play.

Shopping

16A

www.insiderguides.com.au

No Parking Anytime

Need to Knows

Opening Times In Australia, most stores open by 9am and close by 5pm. Major supermarkets are usually open until 9pm during the week. On Sundays, most shops will open later at 11am. Usually Thursdays or Fridays will see longer trading hours, known as ‘late-night shopping’ and most shops have extended hours around Christmas.

Sales Everybody loves to pick up a bargain and Australia has two big sales throughout the year – the end of financial year (June 30) and Boxing Day, after Christmas (December 26). Most shops will also have sales racks or ‘bargain bins’ where you can pick up a cheap deal.

EFTPOS Electronic Funds Transfer Point of Sale (EFTPOS) is where you can use your bankcard to pay for your purchase. You’ll need to swipe or insert your card and enter your PIN. Most places have a $10 minimum purchase amount and some will also offer ‘cash out’ – an easy way to withdraw money from your bank account while shopping.

Online Shopping Sometimes after a long search, you can’t find what you want in a store, or you’re simply looking for a cheaper option. Why not try shopping online? As long as you have a debit or credit card, you can purchase anything and everything, and it can be a way to get a great bargain. Just be careful of shipping and postage – it can be very expensive.

The average Australian Australians use 3.92 billion plastic shopping bags a year! That’s over 10 million new bags being used a day. Most of that goes to landfill!

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Shopping

Shop Spots Sydney is often referred to as a shopper’s city - but with so many choices, where should you start? Here are some shopping options to help you spend your pocket money.

Pitt Street Mall

Bondi Junction

Cabramatta

If you want a one-stop shopping destination in Sydney, Pitt Street Mall has to be it. With a pedestrian-only walking area, a gigantic Westfield shopping mall on one side stocking everything from designer brands to pie stores, a Myer department store and a selection of speciality shops lining the other side of the street, beware – a visit to Pitt Street Mall is likely to be the end of your savings. You can find almost anything you may need here, whether it is a designer dress, a new television or simply some lunch.

If outdoor shopping isn’t for you, then Bondi Junction might be of interest. One of the easiest shopping districts to visit by public transport in Sydney - any train going to Bondi Junction will drop you directly at the shopping centre, and there are a bunch of buses - Bondi Junction, like Pitt Street Mall, houses nearly every kind of shop you could need. A huge indoor shopping mall, Bondi Junction (or ‘the Junction’ as locals call it) has bargain stores and supermarkets on its lower levels, and high-end designer fashion retail on the top levels. With a train station in the building, it’s easy to get all of your purchases home after a long day shopping.

Known as Sydney’s Little Saigon, Cabramatta’s heady shopping district is only 45 minutes from Sydney’s CBD via train. The highlights here are food and fabrics. First, stem your hunger with a visit to one of Cabramatta’s many Vietnamese street food and pho outlets. They are cheap, delicious and fast snacks. If you aren’t feeling like Vietnamese, hit up Cabramatta Deli, an incredible specialist Russian deli (199 Railway Parade, Cabramatta). Once you’ve been fed, it’s time to shop! Cabramatta is known throughout the city for its huge range of inexpensive fabric stores that have a wide range of stock. The hub for fabric is John Street, where you can chat with expert storeowners about your bargain purchases. M U S IfI you’re C not much of a seamstress, explore the kitchen-wear stores that are also dotted along John Street to outfit your kitchen for less than the cost of a meal!

Speaking of lunch, one of the highlights of the newly built Westfield complex at Pitt St Mall is a food hall with a difference. Offering fine-dining restaurants, and an outlet for some of the world’s best dumplings from Din Tai Fung, this is a much fancier food court than you might expect. In the centre of the mall you’ll often find huge crowds of people watching buskers – who entertain the crowds with everything from breakdancing to full band performances. Opening hours vary, but most stores close around 6pm - except on Thursdays for late night shopping, when you can expect them to stay open until at least 9pm.

Oxford Street Paddington If boutique stores and sunny streets are your thing, make a day of wandering up Oxford Street. A long strip lined with designer stores, quirky gift shops and delicious cafés, it’s easy to spend many hours browsing. Bargains can be found amongst the expensive items if you take the time to check out some of the charity stores like Vinnies dotted along Oxford Street – their racks are often filled with recently purchased designer goods that are no longer wanted by their stylish owners.

Shopping

VINYL • CDs • DVDS • M

L E S S O N S

www.insiderguides.com.au

MOVIES

Western Sydney Parramatta is the place to shop if you are in Western Sydney. For convenient everyday shopping with plenty of parking spaces, check out Westfield Parramatta shopping centre. Here you will find all of Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest retail chains nested among designer and budget boutiques and shops. For those who prefer an outdoor experience, discover the hidden gems on Church Street, Phillip Street, Eat Street or OPEN Harris Park.

Clothing â&#x20AC;˘ Accessories

16B

For added excitement, wait until Thursday or Saturday and swing past the Farmers Market just outside the Town Hall. In there you will find beautiful, fresh produce and flowers.

S A L E PUSH

Other Spots Other Sydney shopping highlights include the majestic vintage of the Queen Victoria Building, a heritage shopping centre for designer goods, King Street in Newtown for alternative clothing, tattoo stores and record shops, and Glebe Point Road in Glebe for bookstores and vintage clothing galore. Keep your eyes open - often the best shops will appear when you least expect it!

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Shopping

Your Local Shops

BUTCHER

NEWSAGENT

NEWS

Butcher

Newsagent

What is sold here?

Butchers sell high-quality meats, including cold cuts for sandwiches, prepared mini-roasts, cutlets, sausages, steaks, marinades and some condiments.

Newsagents sell newspapers, stationery, magazines, cards, bus tickets and more.

Why are they awesome? Butchers often have a better range of meats than the supermarkets and provide better-quality cuts. You also get to talk to the actual butcher who cut your meat and who can tell you about where the meat came from and interesting ways to cook it. Where can they be found? They can be found in most shopping centres and groups of shops. They are also common in fresh food markets. If you are looking for Halal or Kosher meats, check with your local butcher and they can point you in the right direction.

Shopping

Why are they awesome? Newsagents often have a wide array of newspapers, including international publications. They also have a massive range of cards for any celebration. Some also sell tickets to events and lottery (Lotto) tickets. Where can they be found? Newsagents are always found in small shopping centres. Often theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re near supermarkets or in the main street.

www.insiderguides.com.au

GREENGROCER

BAKERY

Greengrocer

Bakery

What is sold here?

Here you can find fresh fruit, vegetables, herbs, nuts, yoghurts and juice.

Bakeries sell loaves of bread, rolls, cakes, pastries, pies, sausage rolls and more.

Why are they awesome? Greengrocers may be a bit more expensive than supermarkets, but they’re awesome because the food always tastes that little bit fresher. Also, the staff know about where the food came from and what’s in season. In Australia, it is perfectly acceptable to pick up fruit and vegetables to feel and smell them before you buy it. Just don’t eat it before you pay for it! Where can they be found? Greengrocers are often found in small shopping centres near supermarkets.

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Why are they awesome? Bakeries have saved many students from lunchtime hunger. The family run bakeries often make their own hot food too! The bread is often fresh and delicious, although some do sell yesterday’s bread. Almost all bakeries sell Australia’s national dish, a meat pie with tomato sauce. Where can they be found? Like greengrocers, butchers and newsagencies, bakeries are often found in small groups of shops. However, Insider Guides thinks the best bakeries are always a little bit out of town in the country. Ask a local where the best bakery is in your city. A good bakery is always worth the trip!

Shopping

Books, Music & Movies So you are in a new country and there is bound to be a range of different books, films and song titles coming up in conversation you have never heard of. We encourage you to peruse the shelves of some of these outfits to get a taste for what’s trending in Aussie pop culture.

Kinokuniya

Red Eye Records

TITLE

Level 2, The Galleries (TGV), 500 George St, Sydney This global brand has a store in the heart of Sydney with over 300,000 titles on the shelves. There’s an amazing range of fiction, non-fiction, comics and almost everything else. Best of all, it’s not just English books that they’ve here, but Chinese, French, German, Japanese and more.

143 York St, Sydney The prices of new albums are fantastic and their sale items (often on new releases too) are a steal. Expect to find a huge range here including vinyl and CDs. A huge selection is available and these guys are passionate about music, so they’ll happily point you in the right direction for almost every taste in music.

499-501, Crown St, Surrey Hills TITLE seeks to represent all those who get forgotten by the other stores. They sell music, books and DVDs from genres that are difficult to get or just have a small following such as classical and classic, foreign, forgotten and postmodern. Their books are often non-fiction. They also sell new-release vinyl at reasonable prices.

9262 7996

www.kinokuniya.com

Gould’s Book Arcade 32 King St, Newtown Visiting Gould’s is a bit like hunting for gold. Stacked from floor to ceiling are thousands of pre-loved books, and although it might take you half a day of sifting you’re bound to come across a one-in-a-million out-ofprint title that you can’t find anywhere else. 9519 8947

www.gouldsbooks.com

Radio

9267 7440

9699 5222

www.redeye.com.au

www.titlespace.com.au

Dymocks 424-428 George St, Sydney Dymocks is a high quality chain bookstore stocking a wide variety of titles. If what you’re looking for is relatively mainstream this is probably your best place to start. Dymocks also have a comprehensive range of guidebooks and manuals for students. 9235 0155

Gleebooks 49 Glebe Point Rd, Glebe This cute little shop houses an award-winning selection of Australian and International titles, as well as DVDs, cards and magazines. It’s always important to support your local bookshop, so make sure you pay these guys a visit. 9660 2333

www.gleebooks.com.au

www.dymocks.com.au

Triple J - (105.7) Alternative Popular

2Day - (104.1) Modern Popular

Nova - (96.9) Modern Popular

FBi - (94.5) Alternative, Community, Up-and-coming

Shopping

www.insiderguides.com.au

E-Television You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need a TV to access your favourite episodes these days. Popular Australian news and entertainment programs are supplied on demand from the following sources.

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

ABC iView www.abc.net.au/iview SBS On Demand www.sbs.com.au/ondemand 10 Online ten.com.au Plus 7 au.tv.yahoo.com/plus7

Shopping

The Record Store

Kings Comics

EB Games

255b Crown St, Darlinghurst The Record Store is all about vinyl and the good old-fashioned experience of searching unsorted records for that one you always wanted. They mostly stock dance, funk and soul, but they’ve some pop, rock and alternative. You can expect to spend a few good hours here, check through the various boxes until you stumble on something great.

310 Pitt Street Mall, Sydney Kings Comics is one of the oldest comic stores in Australia, so they definitely know their way around a good comic book. They stock a huge range of traditional comic books, anime and graphic novels as well as clothing, toys and other collectibles. This is easily your first stop if you’re looking for a bit of pop culture.

403 George St, Sydney Games, consoles and accessories are all available at EB Games to buy and trade. You can also get your fix of game passion, with collectible figurines and trading cards available. The prices are decent and because they only deal in games, the sales assistants are generally well informed and helpful.

9380 8223

www.kingscomics.com.au

www.recordstore.com.au

Abbey’s Bookshop

JB Hi Fi 412-414 Pitt Street Mall, Sydney This is your one-stop shop if you need anything music, movie or game related. New release albums are priced reasonably here and you can find some rare CDs for under $30. The best part though is they’ve great sale items which change frequently – it’s pretty easy to get a good album for $10 or less. Also check out their huge range of games and DVDs for some awesome prices. 9222 9877

www.jbhifi.com.au

131 York St, Sydney Abbey’s Bookshop, is one of Sydney’s iconic independent booksellers, who has weathered every kind of claim that the book industry is dying. They do it by stocking a huge range of fiction and non-fiction, plus having helpful service. Be sure to head upstairs to the Language Centre for all your foreign language and ESL needs and while you’re up there, visit their sister shop Galaxy, which specialises in sci-fi. 9264 3111

9299 8368

www.ebgames.com.au

Gertrude and Alice Cafe Bookstore 46 Hall St, Bondi Beach Although you might not expect to find a cosy nook filled with novels and coffee at one of the world’s most famous beaches, Gertrude and Alice Cafe Bookstore is a Bondi institution. Inspired by the culture and literature of Paris, owner Jane Turner set about building a library of second-hand books a decade ago, and created a hangout for beachside locals, booklovers and coffee devotees alike. 9130 5155

www.abbeys.com.au

www.gertrudeandalice.com.au

Great aussie novels The True History of the Kelly Gang

Tomorrow When the War Began

Peter Carey

John Marsden

A stunning exploration of the life of the infamous Australian criminal/folk-hero Ned Kelly.

Cloud Street

Deadly Unna

Tim Winton

Phillip Gwynne

An award-winning, A heart-wrenching story brilliant story of the life of an Aboriginal teenAn easy-to-read but hard-to-put-down novel of two rural families who ager living in a country town who is forced to about a group of friends come to live together in Perth. confront the difficult who find themselves issues of racism and trying to survive an family life. unexpected invasion of their home town.

Shopping

www.insiderguides.com.au

IDP Education Solutions

Knowledge is Power - do you really know all your options? Your next step depends on it. As the world leader in education placement, IDP expert counsellors will help you assess your study options using our comprehensive knowledge system. Contact or visit our office for an individual matching session to find the solution right for you.

Course Counselling Application Processing Student Visa Guidance Regular Interview Sessions and Expos Professional Seminars Student Activities and Excursions

For more information please contact: IDP Sydney Thomas Street Office Tel 02 8260 3300 Email info.sydney@idp.com Address G/F, 191-199 Thomas Street, Sydney NSW 2000

IDP Sydney Bathurst Street Office Tel 02 9261 1460 Email info.sydney@idp.com Address G/F, 131 Bathurst Street, Sydney NSW 2000

Clothing & Accessories You’re certainly going to need some new threads during your stay in Sydney, and there are whole ranges of different fashion avenues, suiting every budget and most of them can be found within the city walls, but be sure to head out to some of the surrounding suburbs as they also have a lot to offer the avid shopper.

General Pants Co.

Shoes 2000

Maple Store

Mid City Shopping Centre, Pitt Street Mall, Sydney Boasting some of the best Aussie brands, including Sass & Bide and One Teaspoon, students can also find a range of premier international brands. Their website also hosts an online gallery, The Bubble, which all aspiring artists in any field can join. General Pants Co. also often stock music festival tickets.

135-139 McEvoy St, Alexandria Cross your fingers that they’ve your size because they’ll undoubtedly have the style of shoe that you’re looking for. You’ll find everything from stilettos to safety work boots, school shoes to slippers. It’s worth the trip because you can pick up current season men’s and women’s footwear at a great price.

244 King St, Newtown It’s well dressed yet casual for this store’s theme. Maple Store has the top labels for women, especially when it comes to denim jeans. There’s also a range of tops, dresses, shorts and shoes for completing your look. They’re big music fans, so you may find yourself some music memorabilia or hear some funky tunes in the store, particularly around summer.

8275 5155

9319 6422

www.generalpants.com.au

Sportsgirl

Bardot

Lower Ground Floor, QVB, 455 George St, Sydney Sportsgirl has been one of Australia’s biggest players in the fashion industry since the 1960s. With items straight off the catwalk, girls who shop at Sportsgirl are not afraid to stand out from the crowd. Showcasing the hottest and funkiest clothes from their constantly changing stock in conjunction with pumping new tunes, this is one for the girls who are ready to make a bold addition to their wardrobe.

Mid City Shopping Centre, Pitt Street Mall, Sydney This Australian brand has its finger firmly on the fashion pulse. Fresh, funky and fun, Bardot has grown from a single store in Melbourne in 1996 to 35 locations today. Worth a look if you’re after colourful styles with class and elegance. Very popular when their summer range launches, this is a great store to stock up on some unique Australian summer dresses to take home with you. 9232 0625

www.bardot.com.au

9264 1269

www.sportsgirl.com.au

Shopping

9517 1633

www.maplestore.com.au

ZARA Level 2, 188 Pitt St, Sydney This brand is loved the world over and now it’s in Australia. Zara has fashions that’ll make guys and girls look like they’ve walked straight off the pages of a magazine into their daily lives. The latest looks are relatively affordable. There’s so much choice, you might want to let someone know where you’re going and get them to send a search party in after you. 9216 7000

www.zara.com

www.insiderguides.com.au

Cream on King 317 King St, Newtown At Cream on King you’ll find modified and original, vintage and re-made wares for both the ladies and gents. They’ve a massive range of re-made shirts in paisley, denim and check, hundreds of one-off dresses, boots and a wide collection of accessories. 9565 2955

www.creamonline.com.au

T-Bar 372 Oxford St, Paddington It’s T-shirts, T-shirts and more T-shirts here so you can find that perfect casual top that makes a statement. T-Bar has local and international artists designing the coolest Ts that’ll have you browsing through and stock for choice. But fear not. The more you buy, the more you save. You can get up to three Ts for $99 - bargain! 8356 9342

www.t-bar.com.au

Valleygirl Glasshouse Shopping Centre, 150 Pitt St, Sydney Stocking some cute little outfits, this is a place that many girls add to their shopping adventure. You’re almost always guaranteed a bargain as you really can’t go past new dresses for as little as $30. It’s an easy place to fill your wardrobe! 9233 1755

www.valleygirl.com.au

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Women’s Shoe Sizes US

5 5.5 US 6 5 6.5 5.5 7 US 6 7.5 5 6.5 8 5.5 7 8.5 6 7.5 9 6.5 8 9.5 7 8.5 10 7.5 9 10.5 8 9.5 12 8.5 10 13 9 10.5 14 9.5 12 vt 10 13 10.5 14 S 12 vt 2.5 13 3 14 S 3.5 vt 2.5 4

Europe

35 35.5 Europe 36 35 37 35.5 37.5 Europe 36 38 35 37 38.5 35.5 37.5 39 36 38 40 37 38.5 41 37.5 39 42 38 40 43 38.5 41 44 39 42 45 40 43 46.5 41 44 48.5 42 45 43 46.5 Europe 44 48.5 35 45 35.5 46.5 Europe 36 48.5 35 36.5

2.5 3 UK 3.5 2.5 4 3 4.5 UK 3.5 5 2.5 4 5.5 3 4.5 6 3.5 5 6.5 4 5.5 7 4.5 6 7.5 5 6.5 8 5.5 7 9.5 6 7.5 10.5 6.5 8 11.5 7 9.5 13 7.5 10.5 8 11.5 UK 9.5 13 2 10.5 2.3 11.5 UK 3 13 2 3.5

Europe 36 37.5

UK 3 4.5

Men’s Shoe Sizes 3 4.5 S 3.5 5 2.5 4 5 3 4.5 5.5 3.5 5 6 4 5 6.5 4.5 5.5 7.5 5 6 8 5 6.5 8.5 5.5 7.5 9 6 8 9.5 6.5 8.5 10 7.5 9 10.5 8 9.5 11 8.5 10 11.5 9 10.5 12 9.5 11 12.5 10 11.5 13 10.5 12 13.5 11 12.5 14 11.5 13 14.5 12 13.5 15.5 12.5 14 16.5 13 14.5 13.5 15.5 v 14 16.5 2 14.5 4 15.5 v6 16.5 2 8

35.5 37

35 36.5 37.5 35.5 37 38 36 37.5 38.5 36.5 37.5 39 37 38 40 37.5 38.5 41 37.5 39 42 38 40 43 38.5 41 43.5 39 42 44 40 43 44.5 41 43.5 45 42 44 45.5 43 44.5 46 43.5 45 46.5 44 45.5 47 44.5 46 47.5 45 46.5 48.5 45.5 47 49 46 47.5 50 46.5 48.5 51 47 49 47.5 50 US (L) 48.5 51 X-Small 49 Small 50 US (L) Small 51 X-Small Medium

Dress Sizes 4 10 v6 12 2 8 14 4 10 16 6 12 18 8 14 20 10 16 22 12 18 24 14 20 16 22 18 24 20 22 24

Small Medium US (L) Small Large X-Small Medium Large Small Medium X-Large/1X Small Large 1X/2X Medium Large 2X Medium X-Large/1X 3X Large 1X/2X 3X Large 2X X-Large/1X 3X 1X/2X 3X 2X 3X 3X

2.3 4

2 3.5 4.5 2.3 4 5 3 4.5 5.5 3.5 4.5 6 4 5 7 4.5 5.5 7.5 4.5 6 8 5 7 8.5 5.5 7.5 9 6 8 9.5 7 8.5 10 7.5 9 10.5 8 9.5 11 8.5 10 11.5 9 10.5 12 9.5 11 12.5 10 11.5 13 10.5 12 13.5 11 12.5 14 11.5 13 15 12 13.5 16 12.5 14 13 15 UK 13.5 16 4 14 6 15 UK 8 16 4 10 6 12

UK 8 14 4 10 16 6 12 18 8 14 20 10 16 22 12 18 24 14 20 26 16 22 18 24 20 26 22 24 26

Shopping

Australia

3.5 4 Australia 4.5 3.5 5 4 5.5 Australia 4.5 6 3.5 5 6.5 4 5.5 7 4.5 6 7.5 5 6.5 8 5.5 7 8.5 6 7.5 9 6.5 8 10.5 7 8.5 11.5 7.5 9 12.5 8 10.5 14 8.5 11.5 9 12.5 Australia 10.5 14 2 11.5 2.3 12.5 Australia 3 14 2 3.5 2.3 4

Australia 3 4.5 2 3.5 4.5 2.3 4 5 3 4.5 5.5 3.5 4.5 6 4 5 7 4.5 5.5 7.5 4.5 6 8 5 7 8.5 5.5 7.5 9 6 8 9.5 7 8.5 10 7.5 9 10.5 8 9.5 11 8.5 10 11.5 9 10.5 12 9.5 11 12.5 10 11.5 13 10.5 12 13.5 11 12.5 14 11.5 13 15 12 13.5 16 12.5 14 13 15 Europe 13.5 16 32 14 34 15 Europe 36 16 32 38 34 40

Europe 36 42 32 38 44 34 40 46 36 42 48 38 44 50 40 46 52 42 48 54 44 50 46 52 48 54 50 52 54

Mexico

Mexico --Mexico 4.5 5--5.5 4.5 65 6.5 5.5 74.5 6 7.5 5 6.5 9 5.5 7 10 6 7.5 11 6.5 9 12.5 7 10 7.5 11 Mexico 912.5 10 11 Mexico 12.5 ---

Mexico --

Japan 21 21.5

21 22.5 24 21.5 23 24.5 22 23.5 25 22.5 24 25.5 23 24.5 26 23.5 25 27 24 25.5 28 24.5 26 29 25 27 30 25.5 28 31 26 29 27 30 Japan 28 31 20 29 21 30 Japan 22 31 20 22.5

35.5 36 37 35.5 37.5 36 38 37 39 35.5 37.5 39.5 36 38 40 37 39 41 37.5 39.5 41.5 38 40 42 39 41 43 39.5 41.5 44.5 40 42 46 41 43 47 41.5 44.5 49 42 46 43 47 China 44.5 49 33 46 34 47 China 35 49 33 36

Japan 22 23.5

China 35 38

Japan 22 21 22.5 21.5 23

Japan 22 23.5

21 23

31 32.5 30 31.5 33 30.5 32 34 31 32.5 35 31.5 33 32 34 Australia 32.5 35 6 33 8 34 Australia 10 35 6 12

33 36 38 34 37 39 35 38 39.5 36 38 41 37 39 38 39.5 42 38 41 43 39 43.5 39.5 42 44 41 43 44.5 43.5 45 42 44 46 43 44.5 43.5 45 47 44 46 47.5 44.5 48 45 47 46 47.5 48 -47 -47.5 -48 -Japan 5-7Japan 9511

Italy 40 46

Australia 10 16

Japan 9 15

38 44

36 42 48 38 44 50 40 46 52 42 48 54 44 50 56 46 52 58 48 54 50 56 52 58 54 56 58

20 22.5 23.5 21 23 24 22 23.5 24.5 22.5 23.5 25.5 23 24 26 23.5 24.5 26.5 23.5 25.5 27 24 26 27.5 24.5 26.5 28 25.5 27 28.5 26 27.5 29 26.5 28 27 28.5 30 27.5 29 30.5 28 31 28.5 30 31.5 29 30.5 32

34 37

---4.5 5-6-4.5 6.5 57 67.5 4.5 6.5 8 5 7 8.5 6 7.5 9 6.5 8 9.5 7 8.5 10 7.5 9 10.5 8 9.5 11 8.5 10 11.5 9 10.5 12 9.5 11 12.5 10 11.5 13 10.5 12 13.5 11 12.5 14.5 11.5 13 15.5 12 13.5 12.5 14.5 Italy 13 15.5 36 13.5 38 14.5 Italy 40 15.5 36 42

8 14

6 12 18 8 14 20 10 16 22 12 18 22 14 20 24 16 22 26 18 22 20 24 22 26 22 24 26

7 13

5 11 17 7 13 19 9 15 21 11 17 23 13 19 25 15 21 27 17 23 19 25 21 27 23 25 27

Cotton On

Frat House

Glue Store

Shop 188 Pitt Street Mall, Sydney Cotton On has cheap but fashionable clothing with a focus on cotton. This means T-shirts and tops are the main stock, but there are also accessories and pants. You’ll easily be able to pick up an entire outfit (guys or girls) for under $50.

Shop 14, Town Hall Square, Sydney Looking for a new outfit that looks both casual and classy? Frat House is your best bet. Stocking clothes for guys and girls, you can expect a wide range of American-style outfits with a bit of an Aussie twist. Find everything from cheeky T-shirts to comfy cardigans, jeans to dresses. The price tag isn’t too bad either, so you can stock up.

Level 2, Harbourside Shopping Centre, Sydney Retailers of urban street wear fashion, Glue Store is unique with products ranging from the sneakers on your feet, to the sunglasses on your face and just about everything in between, all under one giant roof.

www.cottonon.com.au

Industrie Clothing Mid City Shopping Centre, Pitt Street Mall If you like urban streetwear, Industrie will be the right place for you. There’s a huge range of T-shirts, polo shirts, shorts, belts and everything for guys and girls. The prices are fairly reasonable as well, so you don’t need to be incredibly cashed up to be able to afford their clothes. 9233 2375

www.industrie.com.au

Rebel Sport Level 2, Mid City Shopping Centre, Pitt Street Mall If you can kick it, throw it, swing it or punch it you can probably find it here. Sport is a great way to meet new people and stay in shape. So if you’re missing the sports you used to play at home, Rebel Sport can probably help you out. They also stock a large range of popular sports clothing and shoes. Popular brands include Adidas, Nike, Lonsdale, Asics, Puma and Everlast. Not all of the fashion is sports-related either. Some of the stocked apparel is in modern street and urban styles.

9267 7838

www.frathouse.com.au

Witchery Mid City Shopping Centre, Pitt Street Mall When girls complain about not having a chic, affordable fashion store to check out, it’s probable that they’ve forgotten the classical, womanly designs of Witchery. Witchery isn’t about fashion, but rather style. Here, leather replaces PVC, silks replace polyester, and the little black dress puts any trendy new piece to shame. www.witchery.com.au

Topshop Lower Ground Floor, QVB, 455 George Street, Sydney Everyone’s favourite English brand has finally made its way to Sydney’s shores. These guys are well known for stocking a whole range of unique items with a vintage flair, and most Aussies have been trying to source their range online for years. www.topshop.com

9281 2049

www.gluestore.com.au

Surf Dive & Ski Level 1, Harbourside Shopping Centre, Sydney If you’re going to be living in Australia, it’s pretty crucial you get yourself some outfits for the beach. Luckily, Surf Dive & Ski stocks the leading brands for surf and skate as well. Expect to see wellknown Aussie brands like Quicksilver, Roxy and Billabong, along with the most extensive thong (Havaianas) collection in the Southern Hemisphere. 9458 4987

www.sds.com.au

The African Village Market 222 Church St, Parramatta Add a bit of spice to your wardrobe with the exquisite collections of clothing, bags and shoes at the African Village Market. The friendly staff can also teach you how to braid your hair, knit and weave while sampling traditional African snacks. 0402 316 586

www.afrovillagemarket.org.au

8079 9000

www.rebelsport.com.au

Shopping

www.insiderguides.com.au

Melbourne Tel: (03) 9663 6448 Mob: 0424 882 082 Skype: ametmel1 Brisbane Tel: (07) 3210 6033 Mob: 0430 277 427 Skype: ametbne777

Sunnybank Tel: (07) 3423 7688 Mob: 0433 463 388 Skype: ametbne1

Gold Coast Tel: (07) 5518 7888 Mob: 0433 830 805 Skype: ametgct4

Student Supplies

Stationery Pens, pencils and highlighters - just a few of things youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need before you study. For the really cool stationery, head to these three stores in your city: Smiggle: www.smiggle.com.au Kikki K: www.kikkik.com.au Typo: www.typo.com.au

For the cheaper standard stuff, head to these places in your city: Kmart: www.kmart.com.au Target: www.target.com.au

Calculators & Laptops

Textbooks

Dick Smith Electronics: www.dicksmith.com.au

Book Depository: www.bookdepository.co.uk (free shipping!!)

Officeworks: www.officeworks.com.au

Amazon: www.amazon.com

For laptops, Macs have awesome warranties and are very reliable, but PCs can be better for programs like Excel and Word. Whatever you want to get, we recommend you buy these from a place that has excellent warranties and good customer service:

Backpacks

There are two places the locals go to get a decent calculator in this city:

Try and find your textbook online:

Our advice; buy them online and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll get an awesome backpack for a good price:

Myer: www.myer.com.au David Jones: www.davidjones.com.au Harvery Norman: www.harverynorman.com.au

ASOS: www.asos.com.au The Iconic: www.theiconic.com.au

Did you know? Queensland covers 22% of the total Australian continent an area of 1,730,648 square kilometres.

Shopping

www.insiderguides.com.au

Prime Ministerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Australian University Teacher of the Year - Dr James Arvanitakis 2012 (left) and Professor Roy Tasker 2011 (right)

UWS welcomes our international students. At the University of Western Sydney (UWS), our international students will learn from lecturers whose passion is teaching and learning excellence. Our dedicated teaching staff includes the winners of the prestigious Prime Ministerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Australian University Teacher of the Year* award for an unprecedented two years in a row. Professor Roy Tasker (2011) and Dr James Arvanitakis (2012) each received the award for their outstanding record of advancing student learning, education leadership and scholarly contribution to teaching and learning in Australia

Learn more about UWS www.uws.edu.au internationalstudy@uws.edu.au +61 2 9852 5499 CRICOS Provider Code 00917K *Awarded by the Australian Government Office of Learning and Teaching (OLT) for teachers who are renowned for excellence in their fields and who have made a broad and deep contribution to enhancing the quality of learning and teaching in higher education in Australia.

Markets & Vintage Stores Vintage stores are a fantastic way to find that unique item to finish your look and usually on the cheap. Markets are also a great way to find the freshest produce at the best prices and everyone knows it’s important to eat those fruit and veg.

Paddington Markets

Glebe Markets

395 Oxford St, Paddington Paddington Markets (or ‘the paddo markets’) are the perfect place to pick up local, quality handmade goods that you won’t find in the shopping centres. There are over 200 stalls every Saturday, regardless of the weather, selling everything from jewellery and illustrations to handbags, ceramics and condiments.

Glebe Public School, 9-25 Derwent St, Glebe The perfect way to while away a sunny Saturday is at the Glebe Markets. It’s a wonderful way to shop, with stalls selling everything from handmade lanterns to impressive vintage wardrobes. Most prices are set so don’t expect any haggling, but keep an eye out for $1 and $2 boxes of books. Be sure to pick up a cup of the homemade lemonade and chai while you wander around. When your feet need a bit of a rest there’s even live music and grass for a quick sit down.

paddingtonmarkets.com.au

Kings Cross Organic Markets Fitzroy St & Macleay St, Kings Cross The Kings Cross Organic Markets are a delight for all foodies, not just those conscious of whether their food has been farmed in an environmentally friendly way. All the homemade and freshly cooked goodies will have you wandering around, having a bite to eat at loads of stalls and sampling the local produce. Keep your eyes out for delicious fresh veggies, breads, oils and homemade jams.

www.glebemarkets.com.au

Grandma Takes A Trip 263 Crown St, Surry Hills This vintage store is well worth taking a wander through. The collection is mostly sourced from Europe and showcases some of the finest designers from the 1950s onwards. www.grandmatakesatrip.com.au

organicfoodmarkets.com.au

Retro-a-go-go 123 Enmore Rd, Enmore This is another store that seems to be stuck in another century. With a whole range of vintage clothing for guys and girls, it’s almost like wandering through time as you browse the various racks. Specialising in outfits from the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s, you’re almost sure to find something a little quirky to add to your wardrobe. Expect to see a lot of old memorabilia and strange knick-knacks too. www.retroagogo.com.au

Coco Repose Sydney Antiques Centre, 531 South Dowling St, Surry Hills Who doesn’t love dressing up in fabulous old-style dresses? If you’ve a soft spot for vintage clothing with a feminine twist, Coco Repose is for you. A lot of the time, the price tags for their unique items are pretty pricey, but you never know! The guys might want to stay clear of this one. www.cocorepose.com.au

Shopping

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Every Saturday from 10am

Edgy Fashion

Good Food

Creative Homewares

Great Vibe

Inspired Jewellery

A visit to Paddington Markets is sure to put a smile on your face! 395 Oxford Street Paddington NSW

www.paddingtonmarkets.com.au ph: 02 9331 2923

$7.99

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COFFEE! $2.99

Eat & Drink

PUSH

Introduction Australia is a multicultural nation, and nowhere is this more obvious than in our food culture. Sydney is home to a great many nationalities, which, luckily for us, show off their national talents through the delicious form of food. Deciding where to eat out in Sydney can be tough, with almost every international taste catered for. You should have no trouble finding a travel favourite or food from back home. The city tends to have different cuisines cluster together in areas. As a brief outline, Haymarket is the city’s

Chinatown, while the nearby Liverpool Street in the CBD houses the Spanish Quarter. A little further out of the city, the suburb of Leichhardt will provide an array of Italian restaurants, while Lakemba provides the best Lebanese. There are also plenty of great options to suit the student budget. Chinatown and local pubs are often a good bet, offering cheap lunch deals and dinner specials. Serving both food and alcohol, pubs are the great location to bridge the gap between eating out and staying out, and Sydney is known for its huge amount of pubs

– there are quite literally over 10 to each suburb! For those wanting to party, there are plenty of popular nightclubs, bars and dancing spots to be found in the nightlife districts of Oxford Street in Darlinghurst and Kings Cross. But nightlife in Sydney is not just about drinking, contrary to what some local students might say. The increase in late night eateries and small bars around Sydney and the outer suburbs means you can now head out after 10pm and find a quiet place to unwind.

Eat & Drink

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Need to Knows Cover Charge Most clubs will charge you a fee to get in after 10pm – expect to pay anywhere between $5 and $20, depending on where you go. If you contact a bar on Facebook you can often get on the door allowing for an express entry and avoiding the cover charge.

Dress Code When going out in Australia, there are a few rules guys in particular should pay attention to. Make sure you wear neat casual clothing – clubs won’t let you in with Havaianas, singlets or ripped jeans. Some clubs also have a policy about tattoos, so you may need to cover them. Women are often treated a bit more leniently, but try to look classy if you know this could be a problem.

Happy Hours and Ladies’ Nights One thing Australian clubs do well is happy hours, ladies’ nights and drink specials. Happy hours are usually a couple of hours early in the evening where drinks are cheaper (think two-for-one vodkas). Ladies’ nights refer to girls getting discounted drinks. Remember to drink responsibly!

Specials Board Everyone likes a cheap meal, and most restaurants and cafés have a specials board where they can show off their bargains of the day. These dishes will usually be one offs, and won’t appear on the menu. It’s a good idea to check these, as you might find your new favourite, if you have any questions simply ask the staff.

Over-18 Only In Australia, the legal age for drinking and going out is 18. That means you’ll be asked for ID whenever you buy alcohol or go to a venue that serves alcohol. Even if you’re not planning on drinking, you’ll still need to take your Proof of Age card, passport or drivers licence to a club. Sometimes foreign ID isn’t accepted so be safe and bring your passport (a photocopy won’t cut it).

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Eat & Drink

BYO (Bring Your Own) While most restaurants serve a selection of wines and alcoholic beverages, you may like to bring your own (BYO). Expect to pay a small fee for this, known as ‘corkage’, which will vary depending on where you go. Do not attempt to do this with beer or hard liquor.

Reservations On weekends and particularly in popular restaurants, it’s always a good idea to make a reservation. Call the restaurant the day before, let them know how many people will be eating on your table and what time you’d like to arrive. That way, you’ll know there’s a table waiting for you when you get there.

Themed Nights Some Australian clubs hold themed nights, where dressing up is encouraged. Popular themes include cartoon characters, retro and heroes and villains. The best way to keep up with these nights is to like the venue on Facebook.

Tipping Tipping isn’t expected in any Australian stores or restaurants. It’s not in our culture. Some places will have ‘tip jars’ on the counter where you can give a few dollars if you experience particularly helpful service.

It’s Your Round! The term ’round’ in this context refers to the process of one person buying a number of drinks at a time for a group of people in a licensed venue. The idea is that each person of the group takes turns purchasing a beverage for all of the members. Each member of the group does this at least once. If all goes to plan, each member of the group has purchased the same number of beverages as he or she has consumed.

Eat & Drink

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Never be Bored Again.

Australia Student Guide

Ever. Local students know how to enjoy Australian cities. Now itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your turn.

Locals maintain the free Australia Student Guide app so you can discover the best nightlife, student specials, events, adventures, shops, experiences and more.

Eat & Drink Spots Sydney’s wide variety of food and drink options is great – but with so many to choose from it can be hard to get started. Insider Guides gives you an insight into the best that Sydney’s areas have to offer.

East Sydney

CBD

North Sydney

Food

Not only does Sydney’s east offer an array of enticing food options, these are some of the loveliest beachside spots to dine. Bondi is your best bet for a wide variety of choices - if you’re after a fancy night out (with amazing views) check out Bondi Italian or Bondi Icebergs. For something a little easier on the hip pocket, head to Bondi Beach Burrito Company, or the always good Hurricanes Grill. Closer to the city, Darlinghurst is a go place to for cool bars and nightclubs – check out the little bars on Stanley St then head up to Oxford Street for a night of dancing.

Avoid the constant temptation of fast food in the CBD by heading to Chinatown for some of the best food that this city has to offer! Don’t expect just Chinese cuisine either, this is the area for Malaysian, Japanese, Taiwanese and more. The best dumpling houses can be found tucked away in arcades. Chinese Noodle Restaurant on Quay Street is a particular highlight.

The north of Sydney is lucky enough to have a food option that stays open 24 hours and has good food! Maisy’s Cafe on Military Road in Neutral Bay is the perfect option for late-night dining. If you’re keeping more regular hours, check out the North Sydney Hotel for some of the best pub food that side of the bridge.

Nightlife After eating delicious food and gazing out to sea, a drink is in order. Again, Bondi Icebergs is a good choice for a classy cocktail and B-grade celebrity spotting. For a more unusual tipple, check out Rum Diaries (which is just as it sounds, a rum bar) or for live music, make a visit to Bondi’s Beach Road Hotel, which features great beers on tap and a gig or DJ every night!

Nightlife Don’t be put off by the bars lining George St. Instead, check out the alleyways, back doors and hidden entries of the CBD. Thanks to a small bar revival, with a little investigation you can find amazing bars tucked away in the CBD. Highlights include Grandma’s Bar, a replica of your grandmother’s lounge room tucked under a guitar store that serves cocktails in cute teacups, the Baxter Inn, a specialised whisky bar, that would soothe even Faulkner, settle in to opulent armchairs, and GoodGod Small Club, a ‘danceteria’, with DJs every night of the week and cocktails named after Chevy Chase!

Eat & Drink

Nightlife North Sydney’s nightlife, long ago a bit of a dead zone, has recently taken off with venues like Hugo’s Manly, Newport Arms Hotel and the Rag and Famish stepping up their game to offer bars and nightspots to rival Sydney’s inner city.

Inner West Sydney Food If you’re in the mood for Thai, Newtown’s King Street will answer your prayers. Almost every second store is home to a Thai restaurant. The tricky part is finding your favourite - Insider Guides recommends Newtown Thai II and Thai La Ong. If Thai won’t hit the spot check out the more unusual cuisines on offer – Na Zdrowie on Glebe Point Road offers amazing Polish food (and a vodka list longer than any you’ll ever have seen!)

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$7.99 Nightlife The inner west’s nightlife is dominated by pubs. Newtown’s Courthouse, Enmore’s Sly Fox and Glebe’s AB Hotel are consistently popular and serve good cold beer for reasonable prices. If you’re after something a bit fancier, check out one of the many new small bars - from Corridor in Newtown, to Enmore’s Midnight Special and Glebe’s The Little Guy.

Café • Piz

COFFEE! $2.99

Western Sydney Food Parramatta is home to an exciting mix of cuisines, boasting over 180 restaurants cafés and bars. Go to Church Street for modern outdoor dining, George St for beer gardens and cool cafés and Harris Park for some of the best Indian restaurants in Australia.

PUSH

Nightlife There are plenty of great pubs in the area such as the Albion Hotel and the Roxy Hotel. The latter was developed into a huge entertainment complex and it receives world class acts on a regular basis. The Parramatta Leagues Club is also an interesting place to check out. It houses various restaurants and bars as well as the Parramatta Eels NRL (Rugby League) club.

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Eat & Drink

Aussie Cuisine Aussie BBQ Everybody knows Aussies love cooking outdoors – that’s because it’s easy, social and the best tasting. What will I eat? • Sausages (also known as ‘snags’) • Burgers (‘patties’) • Chops • Steaks You might also take salads, bread and plenty of tomato sauce (ketchup). How much will it cost? Head to your local shops and pick up everything you need for under $20. • Pack of eight beef sausages $5 • Loaf of bread $2.50 • Bottle of tomato sauce $3

Pies, Pasties and Sausage Rolls Australians love a good lunchtime pastry, especially after a long road trip. The best can be found at bakeries outside the city. What will I eat? Typical bakeries will serve a few basics and vary the ingredients: • Pastie – vegetable and meat filled pastry. • Pie – usually filled with chicken or beef with sauces and spices.

• 250g coleslaw $4.50 Where can I go? You’ll be able to find a hot plate at most parks and popular beaches – and some people will have a barbecue at home. When would I eat this? You can fry some bacon and eggs for breakfast, throw a few sausages on for lunch, or put together a gourmet dinner of barbecued vegetables and marinated steaks.

• Sausage roll – long meat filled pastry. Great with tomato sauce! Bakeries also sell cold drinks, sandwiches, rolls and cakes. How much will it cost? Bakeries are a relatively cheap way to eat, with most pastries costing anywhere between $3 and $5. Where can I go? There are a few commercial chains of bakeries, but for the best quality we recommend you look for your local independent bakery. If you head out of town on a road trip, keep your eyes out for a country bakery. When would I eat this? Bakeries make for the perfect quick lunch. You can buy a tasty savoury snack, a sweet cake for afterwards and a drink. Most bakeries will close by about 4pm, so make sure you get in early.

Eat & Drink

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Pub Food A pub is like a casual restaurant and a bar combined – it’s a place to eat and drink. Often the servings are generous and the types of meals are similar from pub to pub. What will I eat? • Chicken & veal schnitzels • Fish and chips • Burgers • Roast dinners • Steaks At some pubs there’ll also be a salad bar where you can serve yourself various salads and vegetables. How much will it cost? Prices will vary at each pub, but you should be able to get a decent meal for about $15-$20. Where can I go? There will be one very close to you. The best thing about pubs is that there are so many scattered around the country. In almost every outback town there’s a pub (even if the population barely reaches a hundred). When would I eat this? Pubs are excellent for a casual lunch (with many having cheaper lunch specials) or a nice dinner. A lot of the pubs in Australia now have modern outdoor eating areas known as ‘beer gardens’.

Take Away Like the rest of the world, Australia has its fair share of commercial take away outlets. But there are plenty of other ‘fast food’ alternatives you should try. What will I eat? • Fish and chips • Yeeros (kebab) & burgers • Curries • Pasta How much will it cost? Depending on what you choose, the price will vary. But for the most part you should be able to get something pretty substantial for under $15. Where can I go? Takeaway joints are located everywhere. The best place to have some traditional fish and chips is down by the beach. Grab some (it’ll be wrapped up in paper to keep the heat in), find a nice spot on the beach and enjoy the view. When would I eat this? Takeaway makes for a great cheap, quick dinner – plus it means you don’t have to make it yourself.

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Eat & Drink

Coffee Culture Thanks to European immigration after World War II, Australians now have a taste for coffee. It’s almost a necessity for existence here and the cafe culture reflects this well. Almost every restaurant, petrol station, pub and lunch bar will serve coffee. Little cafés with outdoor seating are found everywhere in the city centre and wherever there are shops or lots of people to be found, there’ll be a café hidden somewhere. Coffee is taken seriously here and no visit to the city is complete without tasting some of the finest brews. How much will it cost? Depending on where you go, you should be able to find a decent coffee for about $3-$4. Most cafés also sell some sort of cake, pastry or savoury snack which can cost anywhere from $3-$10. When would I drink this? Coffee in Australia is recommended any time! Start with a quick one for breakfast then meet a friend in the afternoon for an iced coffee.

Cafe Latte

Flat White

Cappuccino

Coffee Shot Milk Foam Steamed Milk

Espresso

Macchiato

Long Black

Chocolate Syrup or Powder Hot Water

Hot Chocolate

Regular Tea

Eat & Drink

Tea with milk

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www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Eat & Drink

Cafés & Breakfasts Waking up early and heading out to meet your friends for breakfast is the perfect way to start your weekend. Luckily, there are plenty of cafés and coffee spots that serve up some delicious early morning dishes. Typically, breakfast is served until 11am, but some places around Sydney serve ‘all day’ breakfasts where you can eat later, this works well for those who like to sleep in.

Bourke Street Bakery

Kawa

633 Bourke St, Surry Hills Who can go past great baked goods? Some of the best in Sydney can be found at Bourke Street Bakery in Surry Hills. Each day, Bourke Street makes a delicious selection of fresh breads, pastries and pies. Most are priced below $5 and the coffee is also fantastic. A word of warning though – be prepared to wait in line some days as this is one of the most popular bakery cafés in Sydney!

348a Crown St, Surry Hills Surry Hills’ locals flock to Kawa for its great menu, good coffee and outdoor seating that is ideal to soak up sunshine. It’s an all-organic menu and you’ll likely be tempted to spend all your morning here. Breakfast is the best meal to visit for - it’s often the busiest time of day at Kawa. With a varied menu starting at $5 and heading up to only about $15, you can treat yourself to everything from toast to a giant fruit salad while you watch the people of Surry Hills wander by on their way to work - what a great way to start the day.

9699 1011

www.bourkestreetbakery.com.au

Clipper Cafe 16 Glebe Point Rd, Glebe Did you skip breakfast before uni? Never fear – in Glebe, the best little café is waiting for you. It’ll get delicious food onto your plate, a paper in your hand and coffee pumping through your veins – all before you’ve to be at your lecture! There’s a menu full of breakfast favourites and some surprises – such as French toast with bacon and maple syrup. Coffee is consistently well made. Meals are under $15 with most under $10, and coffee is a very reasonable $3.

9331 6811

Mecca Espresso 67 King Street, Sydney The passion for the fine craft of making the perfect coffee has driven this crew to provide some of the most delicious brews you’ll taste. They source beans from all over the world, roast them and then brew them for you at one of their bars, or you can take them home to brew a cup yourself. 9299 8828

www.meccaespresso.com

0411 800 063

Eat & Drink

Single Origin Roasters 60-64 Reservoir St, Surry Hills The coffee is sourced, roasted and brewed for you by the talented team in their café. The breakfast and lunch menus as well as the blend change from week to week, so you’ll need an adventurous spirit, but it’s all delicious so you won’t be risking your palate too far. Pop next door to their Sideshow where you can sample multiple coffees. 9693 2232

www.singleorigin.com.au

How would you like your eggs? There are several ways to have your eggs served. If you have a preference be sure to let the waitstaff know.

Fried Pan fried, often with oil.

Poached Boiled in water, with no oil or salt.

Scrambled Beaten and cooked in a pan, usually mixed with some herbs and cheese.

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Budget Eats If you’re feeling a little hungry at lunchtime, or you’re just looking for a cheap place to eat, these are the sorts of places you should look into. Most of the meals are under $10 and all are close to the city universities - perfect for a mid-study break!

Ayam Goreng 99 Indonesian 464 Anzac Pde, Kingsford This is authentic Indonesian food at its best. Plus, it’s incredibly cheap for all of you poor students out there, trying to save your pennies. 9697 0030

Beach Burrito Company 252 Campbell Pde, Bondi Beach Quirky deco and simple great Mexican food and drinks make this place worth recommending. To top it off there’s a great view of Bondi Beach! 9130 7123

www.beachburritocompany.com

The Pie Tin 1A Brown St, Newtown Pie is the ultimate comfort food so head here for a freshly baked slice if you’re feeling homesick. The artisan bakery is in a light-filled corner shop just off King St. Try the 1-pie and 2-sides $10 lunch special (mushy peas are a must) and take a seat at the big communal table. You won’t be able to resist taking a sweet slice home for dessert. 9519 7880

www.thepietin.com.au

Pasticceria Papa 145 Ramsay Rd, Haberfield There is rarely a moment when you don’t have to join a queue at Papa’s, but it’s worth the wait once you bite into one of their sweet Italian pastries. Grab some extra ricotta cannoli to take away if you want to get on someone’s good side - they’re what dreams are made of. 9798 6894

www.pasticceriapapa.com.au

Din Tai Fung World Square Shopping Centre, 644 George St, Sydney Din Tai Fung is visible from a distance - due to the constant queue of hungry dumpling fans who wait outside to enjoy some of the best Sydney has to offer. Although Din Tai Fung is part of an international chain, with restaurants everywhere from Malaysia to the United States, this is true quality. The staff apply such precision to the art of dumpling creation that any bun without the required number of folds is discarded. You can peep at the dumpling artist through the glass windows as, wearing super-hygenic white suits and hats, they make dumplings with robotic precision. The results? Delicious.

Don Don Japanese Restaurant 80 Oxford St, Darlinghurst A cute and cosy dining experience that’s both tasty and cheap. They’ve noodles, rice and sushi, which you get in a large bowl that could easily feed two. The best part is that almost everything is under $10. Right in the hub of Oxford Street, it can get busy, but it’s worth the wait. 9331 3544

Ho’s Dim Sim Kitchen 429 Pitt St, Haymarket A well-kept secret, Ho’s is tucked away on Pitt St, offering the BEST dumplings in the inner city. Not only can you get steaming hot fresh pockets of goodness to eat on your lunch hour, there’s also a selection of takehome packs to curb even the strongest dumpling craving. It’s all super cheap, starting at 50c and heading up to $20 for kilos of take-home dumplings. 9281 2725

9264 6010

www.dintaifungaustralia.com.au

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Eat & Drink

Casual Restaurants Sometimes you might feel like heading to a more restaurant style experience, but you don’t want to part with your precious cash. There are heaps of cheap restaurants around Sydney that serve quality food and have a good atmosphere - not to mention a diverse range of cuisine to choose from.

Al Aseel 4/173 Waterloo Rd, Bankstown Food that’s made for sharing is what you’ll find at Al Aseel - and it won’t put much of a dent in your pocket! With gigantic share plate mains mostly under $15, bring a crowd to tuck in to fattoush salad, lemon and garlic chicken and incredible lamb skewers. With some of the cheapest and most authentic Lebanese food in Sydney and a delicious atmosphere, Al Aseel is well worth the trip to Bankstown. 9758 6744

Bootleg Bar and Italian Food 175 Victoria St, Potts Point In the heart of Kings Cross, you can find some high quality little places! Bootleg Bar and Italian Food, while still being able to fulfil your chocolate-cocktail cravings, they also serve a mean espresso and have some todie-for late night cake treats. With friendly staff and a cosy interior, this is the right place to escape the King’s Cross crazy (even if just for a little while). 9361 3884

www.bootlegbar.com.au

WAQU

Ms G’s

308 Pacific Hwy, Crows Nest Modern Japanese cuisine – it’s possibly one of Sydney’s best-kept secrets, and this is an ideal place to treat visiting friends or relatives. Their picture-perfect six-course degustation menu changes seasonally, also comes in vegetarian, and is as much fun as it is tasty. Best of all, it’s so affordable you’ll wonder how they make a living at all. www.waqu.com.au

155 Victoria Rd, Darlinghurst In a city full of fantastic Asian restaurateurs, it can be tricky to find something totally new. While some of the menu might come as no surprise, with dishes such as banh mi rolls and prawn toast, others are more unusual, like the ‘Stoner’s Delight’ dessert, that features every junk food you could imagine. Ms G’s has a strict ‘No Reservations’ policy, so get there early or be prepared to sit on one of the cute crates of beer that double as bar seating.

Gazebo Wine Garden

merivale.com.au/msgs

9906 7736

2 Elizabeth Bay Rd, Elizabeth Bay From the moment you walk through the door you’ll know that this place is special. A place for those with a bit of money to spare, Gazebo Wine Garden is definitely unique with its decor, from stuffed animals to fake flowers. Thankfully, the prices aren’t much higher than at a pub. They’ve jugs of cocktails on their drinks list, which means you’ll want to come here to spend a long afternoon. You will want to get along to the Girls’ Picnic on the weekend for an indulgent experience. 9357 5333

www.thegazebos.com.au

Eat & Drink

8313 1000

An 27 Greenfield Pde, Bankstown In Western Sydney, you’ll be spoiled for choice with delicious cheap dining options, but one of the best has to be An. Specialising in simple but mouth-wateringly tasty pho (hearty beef soup with noodles, beansprouts, lemon and chilli), this Vietnamese favourite comes in massive bowls of goodness for a very reasonable price! It’s a canteen-like restaurant, so it might not be the place to take a date but it’s certainly a yummy and easy meal that will keep you coming back for more. 9796 7826

www.insiderguides.com.au

But how much alcohol am I actually drinking? In Australia, the blood alcohol limit for driving is .05 (0.00 if you are on your provisional or learner licence), so you will need to be below this if you plan on driving. The best way to monitor your drinking is to be aware of how many standard drinks you are consuming. Below is a rough guide, as every drink is different. All bottles and cans that contain alcohol will show how many standard drinks they contain on the back label. For guys, it is usually OK to have no more than two standard drinks within the first hour and then one every hour after that. For girls itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the same, but only one drink in the first hour. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re planning to drive, the best thing to do is think about not drinking any alcohol.

1.4

Stubby

Middy

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Schooner

Wine (100ml)

Eat & Drink

Sparkling (150ml)

Spirits (30ml)

Pubs & Student Hangouts Pubs are a central part of Australian culture and they used to be known as ‘public houses’. In Sydney, you’ll find a pub on most streets. In recent years, most of the pubs around Sydney have upgraded their looks and their kitchens, now serving some fantastic food as well as offering a wider range of beverages. Pubs aren’t just a place to have a drink and a feed either. Most pubs can also serve as a live music venue, pool hall and, even host trivia nights.

UNSW Roundhouse Unibar Anzac Pde, Kensington There’s a load of good music on at the Roundhouse. Plus there are trivia nights, bingo, pool and poker competitions. Check out the drinks specials, happy hour and meal deals – they’re definitely student prices. 9385 7630

www.unswroundhouse.com

UBar Hub Building, Macquarie Uni Campus Thursday night is the night for dancing, DJs, parties and trivia here. Unfortunately, you need to be a student or staff member (or be with one) to get in. If you are, you’re in luck because this is one fun place to meet your friends. 9850 7774

www.mq.edu.au/on_campus/ food_and_shopping/food_drink/ ubar

The Courthouse 202 Australia St, Newtown A vibrant and atmospheric local Newtown pub in a converted corner hotel. With a cool vibe and cheap drinks, this place is definitely worth a visit.

The Clock Hotel

The Norfolk Hotel

470 Crown St, Surry Hills This is a massive pub with incredible food and an awesome location. It’s the perfect place to start your night out.

305 Cleveland St, Surry Hills The Norfolk has become one of THE hipster hangouts in Sydney. Prepare to be greeted by large crowds of bearded men, boot-shod ladies and many, many disinterested gazes from the bar staff. Like many newly opened Sydney bars, the Norfolk offers a menu that’s heavy on the superpopular Americana dinerstyle snacks, with a heavy sprinkle of Tex-Mex. With a different special every night, highlights include Monday’s $4 mini-burger bar, and Tuesday’s $3 taco menu, which will leave you with plenty of cash to buy some drinks to go along with it. To avoid the crowds, and get one of the best deals, swing by for a $10 lunch between 12-3pm, Monday to Friday.

9331 5333

www.clockhotel.com.au

The Lansdowne Corner City Rd and Broadway, Chippendale/ Newtown Situated on the corner of City Road and Broadway, the Lansdowne is a Sydney institution, just down the road from Sydney Uni and perfectly placed next to the Parramatta Rd bus stops. The clientele is, well, everyone - from tradies to suited lawyers on their way home, to the constant flow of uni students popping in between (or instead of) classes. Why is it so popular? It’s not just the great location - the beer is cheap, it’s open late 7 nights a week, and there’s live entertainment almost every night, from bands to trivia.

9699 3177

www.thenorfolk.co/whats-on

8218 2333

9519 8273

Eat & Drink

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Bar Broadway

Coogee Bay Hotel

Scruffy Murphy’s

Cnr of Regent Street and Broadway, Sydney Perfectly positioned across the road from the University of Technology Sydney, Bar Broadway is a well-worn student haunt. Offering cheap games of pool, happy hour drink specials and, since the recent addition of Mama Wong’s Garden Restaurant, cheap food, this is the perfect post-class hangout. If the weather is nice (and you don’t mind being exposed to Sydney’s peak-hour traffic), grab one of the outdoor tables, which are constantly full to the brim with regulars and locals.

Location 253 Coogee Bay Road, Coogee If you’re having a night by the seaside at Coogee, one of the best places to get it started is at the Coogee Bay Hotel’s weeknight happy hour. With $4.50 schooners of beer every weeknight from 5-7pm, this is a great place to catch up with friends while taking in the beautiful Coogee Beach views and fresh sea air.

43-49 Goulburn St, Sydney Offering a whopping four bars, friendly Irish feel and more beer than you could poke a stick at, Scruffy’s, as it’s affectionately known, is popular every night of the week. Positioned right in the heart of the CBD, it’s the perfect place to begin or end an affordable night and meet a range of people. Drawing a crowd that’s a mix of backpackers, city workers and students, this pub is also one of few that has the drawcard of being open all the time. That’s right - 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

9211 2321

www.barbroadway.com.au

The Porterhouse 233 Riley St, Surry Hills With a name like The Porterhouse, you’d be forgiven for coming to this pub expecting one thing – and you won’t be disappointed! This is the place to get your fill of juicy steaks, especially each Thursday night, as the Porterhouse dishes steaks from midday to 9pm that’ll only cost you $10! www.porterhouse.com.au

www.coogeebayhotel.com.au

The Standard Taylor Square, Oxford St (above Kinselas Hotel), Sydney While there’s certainly no lack of places to hang out in Darlinghurst’s Taylor Square, the newly opened The Standard sure is great. With not one, but two bars, and an event on every night, this is a sure-fire hit for an entertaining evening out. Drinks are also reasonably priced with most options easily under $10 (and some great kebab shops downstairs). It can get really crowded on weekend evenings though, so it can be worthwhile to snag a good spot earlier in the night to drink and dance with your pals. 9660 7953

9211 2002

www.scruffymurphys.com.au

The Mean Fiddler Corner of Commercial Rd & Windsor Rd, Parramatta Oh the luck of the Irish! The Mean Fiddler’s huge courtyard is one of the best spots to enjoy a few cold pints in Western Sydney. From humble starts back in 1826, the Mean Fiddler is now an amazing entertainment hub, boasting five bars and plenty of live music. 9629 4811

www.meanfiddler.com.au

www.wearethestandard.com.au

Safety at night If you find yourself tumbling out of a club at some early hour in the morning, common sense will help keep you safe. Know where you’re going and walk briskly. Even if you’re not sure, walk with purpose so you don’t draw unwanted attention and try to keep to well-lit areas with lots of people around. Aim for a cab rank, train station, or bus stop. Have a mobile phone on you and don’t be afraid to call for help; maybe a mate will get out of bed to pick you up. Try to keep your personal belongings close to you at all times and don’t flash around any valuables such as iPods, jewellery and cash. Remember to dial 000 in an emergency

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Eat & Drink

Cocktail Bars If you feel like getting a little dressed up and acting sophisticated for a night, heading out to one of Sydney’s cocktail bars is the way to go. Be prepared to spend some cash - most cocktails cost about $14-$19, so keep your eyes out for happy hours or specials. Buying shared drinks such as Sangria or ordering a bottle of wine can be an effective way of cutting costs.

Grasshopper 1 Temperance Lane, Sydney After missing the ‘right’ alley a couple of times, you’ll be in need of a drink when you finally stumble into the Grasshopper. Spirits served in jam jars, bottled beers and numbered cocktails are the order of the day, and there are quality bar snacks on the chalkboard to go with them. The dim lighting and obscure location make you feel like you’re in on a secret. 9947 9025

www.thegrasshopper.com.au

Grandma’s Bar Basement Level, 275 Clarence St, Sydney Grandma’s Bar is everything you’d hope for in an underground nanna retreat; rocking chairs, knitting needles and mismatched memorabilia, but with a cocktail list that’ll knock your crocheted socks off. The crowd is a mixture of arty types and after-workers, drinking and chatting wherever they can find some space. The only food is jaffles (toasted sandwiches) as well-made drinks are the main attraction.

Blu Bar on 36

Absinthe Salon

Shangri-La Hotel, 176 Cumberland St, The Rocks Perched 36 floors above the ground, Blu offers some breathtaking views of Sydney’s harbour and a very impressive cocktail list to try while you do. Although certainly not cheap (cocktails here average about $20), the menu also features a wide selection of whiskies, wines and spirits - and if you happen to be in the mood for an old-fashioned cocktail, there’s even a list of the ‘cocktails through the ages’ where you can pick a drink to suit your favourite time period.

87 Albion St, Surry Hills Absinthe may be associated with green fairies and debauchery but you’ll find if you go to the Absinthe Salon that it makes for a relaxed and palatable night out. The owners are knowledgeable and happy to talk you through their vast range of absinthes, as well as how to use the scientific looking equipment needed to adjust the strength of your drink. Bookings are essential.

9250 6000

www.36levelsabove.com.au

Island Bar Cockatoo Island, Sydney The Island Bar is a dream weekend destination. Set on the shore of Cockatoo Island, this bar serves up tropicalinspired cocktails and sits you in deck chairs to drink. With views of Sydney’s iconic Harbour Bridge, a visit to Island Bar feels like a holiday, all for the price of a cocktail (they range from $9-$20) and ferry ticket. www.theislandbar.com.au

9211 6632

www.absinthesalon.com.au

Eau De Vie 229 Darlinghurst Rd, Darlinghurst Hidden away in the back of the Kirketon Hotel, this spectacular little cocktail bar serves up some of the most deliciously innovative drinks in Sydney. The staff are some of the nation’s best bar staff, which adds another dimension to the classic vintage vibe that hits you as you walk in. With prices a bit out of the average student’s budget, it’s still worth experiencing Eau De Vie. 9357 2470

9264 3004

grandmasbarsydney.com.au

Eat & Drink

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Nightclubs For those who love to party and dance the night away, Sydney’s nightclub scene is definitely for you. With a range of different clubs, there’s sure to be at least one that tickles your fancy and keeps you out past your bedtime.

AND

ARQ

Level 4, 500 Oxford St, Bondi Junction Sydney’s clubs are starting to spread out of their usual spots - instead of parties just happening in huge, heaving dance floors on Oxford St and in Kings Cross, new, underground clubs are beginning to appear all over the city. The latest of these is called AND. Weirdly enough, it’s hidden in Westfield Shopping Centre in Bondi Junction. With impressive design and fun features like a largescale jigsaw puzzle, karaoke booths, and even a room that looks like a submarine, this is the place to go if you want a crazy, out-of-the-ordinary night on the town.

16 Flinders St, Darlinghurst A well-established gay venue, this big venue hosts staples like free Thursday night amateur drag (you’ll need a cocktail) and Saturday’s Dance Dance Dance. Get in before 11pm to save on the cover charge or if you love it, invest in a membership. If it’s good enough for Lady Gaga, it’s definitely good enough for you.

The ivy 330 George St, Sydney The ivy is a popular club complex in the centre of Sydney. Even the celebs hang here so be sure to arrive early to avoid lines. It’s free on Fridays before 10pm. Many people go there for the stamp first and then go to Bar Century above Hungry Jack’s for cheap drinks. Definitely a good place to be in summer on Wednesdays if you can reach the pool on the roof!

9380 8700

www.arqsydney.com.au

Home Bar Cockle Bay Wharf, 101 Wheat Rd, Darling Harbour This is another massive dance complex that makes for the perfect venue to party in all night. Be sure to take a look out the windows while you’re there and maybe sneak in a camera for those amazing views of the harbour. With seven different dance floors, this is a good place to go with a big group who’ve different tastes or with that friend who just can’t make up their mind! 9266 0600 www.homesydney.com

Colombian 117-125 Oxford St, Darlinghurst It’s free, gay-friendly and they always closes very late, so this place is a lot of fun. There’s a relaxed atmosphere to the main bar located near the street entrance. Enjoy chilled drinks here or move onto the lounge where things really heat up. The red decor sets the perfect party mood and you can find an intimate spot to enjoy one of their amazing cocktails. 9360 2151

www.colombian.com.au

Soho 171 Victoria St, Potts Point This is an established clubbing spot in Sydney and your clubbing experience almost requires a visit here. Full of a young crowd of partiers and home to some of Sydney’s top DJs, you’ll have to get dancing to keep up. Come here on Fridays for $5 drinks all night and $10 cocktails at happy hour. 9358 6511

www.sohobar.com.au

9240 3000

www.merivale.com/ivy

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Eat & Drink

Late Night Eats Sometimes you just want to get a decent feed, but it’s after 10pm. Most places stop serving dinner at 9pm, and a lot of restaurants and cafés are shut. Luckily, there are still a few good places serving delicious food after most people have headed off to bed.

Maisy’s Cafe Shop 1, 164 Military Rd, Neutral Bay One of Sydney’s few 24 hour cafés, Northern Sydney’s Maisy’s is constantly buzzing - whether it’s 7am or 11pm! Famous for good coffee, a contemporary menu, and ‘famous’ basket delivery (you’ll have to visit to find out exactly what that is), Maisy’s is perfect for a study-procrastination visit, late-night hunger attack, or just a comfortable afternoon coffee. Best of all, their full menu is available 24 hours. 9908 4030 www.maisys24.com.au

Badde Manors 1/37 Glebe Point Rd, Glebe The cosy corner café Badde Manors is a Sydney institution. Established over 30 years ago, in the style of ‘50s and ‘60s bohemian coffee houses, Badde Manors attracts everyone from students to businessmen for its late-night hot chocolates, delicious desserts and wide range of vegetarian options. With eclectic vintage furniture and wide bay windows looking out onto the busy restaurant strip of Glebe Point Road, Badde Manors is set to become one of your local favourites.

Pancakes on the Rocks 4 Hickson Rd, The Rocks, Sydney Pancakes on the Rocks delivers an American-style pancakes and delicate crepes in one of the oldest and most beautiful locations in Sydney. You can choose from savoury or sweet pancakes and even bring along that friend who doesn’t feel like pancakes so they can get a pizza, salad or steak. 9247 6371

Cafe Hernandez 60 Kings Cross Rd, Potts Point A couple of blocks from the flashing lights of Kings Cross, this local Spanish institution is oddly comforting with an eclectic mix of wall-to-wall art and patrons. Pop in for coffee and cake any time of the day or night and try a bon bon (espresso with sweet condensed milk) or a horchata if coffee isn’t your thing. 9331 2343

www.pancakesontherocks. com.au

www.cafehernandez.com.au

Lindt Chocolate Cafe

261 King St, Newtown King St is the hub of Sydney’s late night café scene and Cinque stays open later than most. If you’re up for an alcohol-free night try their Italian hot chocolate, so thick your spoon stands on end! The location is central, great for people watching and next door to an art-house cinema if you’re up for a film.

104-105 Cockle Bay Wharf, Darling Harbour, Sydney You might come here just for a late-night hot chocolate on the weekend, but we guarantee the desserts and cold drinks will tempt you in the end. Cakes that are to die for, pancakes with ice cream and chocolate, and little macarons of all different colours and flavours will go down wonderfully with your beverage.

Cinque

9519 3077

www.cinquenewtown.com.au

9267 8064

www.lindt.com

9660 3797

www.baddemanorscafe.com

Eat & Drink

www.insiderguides.com.au

Recycling Unnecessary household waste is a major problem as it increases landfill and is bad for the environment. Australia has a good household recycling system. You probably have a recycling bin where you now live.

1 Cans This includes aluminium and steel cans.

2 Glass 1

If you have an empty glass bottle, you can recycle it. Remember to take off the tops!

3 Paper & Card This includes newspapers, junk mail, milk cartons, printer paper etc. Remember to remove any plastic wrapping!

2 3 4

4 Plastics This includes milk bottles, soft drink bottles, juice bottles etc. Remember to take off the tops!

Don’t put these items in the recycling:

» Car parts

» Old appliances

» CDs and DVDs

» Clothing

» Plastic bags and wrapping

» Food

» Glassware

» Bottle tops

» Liquid

» Polystyrene foam

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Eat & Drink

GALLERY

Entertainment

Introduction It’s hard to avoid being entertained in Sydney. With a thriving live music and arts scene, and year-round festivals, there are constant, affordable, ways to avoid your assignments at hand. With the Sydney Festival over the summer (that attracts a wide variety of world-class music and performers), Sydney Film Festival, music festivals such as Big Day Out and

more, it’s easy and fun to fill your time. Sydney is also emerging as a world-class city for artistic expression, with a Biennale of Sydney, Sydney Fringe and Sydney Comedy Festival. Outside the festival scene, it’s also easy to be entertained at one of Sydney’s many live performance venues. Check out the Annandale for rock, Oxford Art Factory for indie and

clubs like the Standard and the Abercrombie for dance parties. For an authentic Aussie entertainment experience, head to one of the many weekly sporting events. Over the summer, head to the Sydney Cricket Ground to take part in the fun of cricket in the sun, and in winter, check out the rugby league season in full swing at stadiums across Sydney.

Entertainment

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Need to Knows Ticket Sales If you’re planning to go to a concert or sporting match while you’re in Australia, you’ll need to buy tickets. Most ticket buying takes place on the internet through a couple of national websites. If you’re buying for a festival, those tickets are usually available through the festivals website. www.ticketek.com.au www.ticketmaster.com.au www.moshtix.com.au

Student Discounts Being a student certainly has its advantages; especially where live entertainment is concerned. If you enjoy a bit of live theatre, but don’t like the price, you can easily get a discount if you’re under 30.

Orientation Week Also called ‘O-Week’, this introductory week to uni is time to get settled in while having some fun. University campuses become a hive of activity as clubs are showcased, tours are run and introductory lectures are given. Some universities also have concerts, dances, fairs, and more to help everyone meet in a relaxed environment. It’s highly recommended that you don’t forget the academic stuff because this is the best time to get a library tour. Some very important information is given out in these first lectures.

Cultural Celebrations and Events There are many celebrations from around the world that Aussies embrace with a passion and commit to making them a great day out. Sydney is a multicultural hub of excitement! Many of the nationalities that make it a culture capital have their own events throughout the year. To keep up to date, check the City of Sydney’s What’s On website: www.whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Gay and Lesbian Events The gay and lesbian scene is large in Australia, and as such there are hundreds of events around the country that have developed a massive following. Whether it is at the hundreds of gay venues scattered around the country, or at big outdoor festivals and parades, there are many ways to engage with this community. Check out this website: www.samesame.com.au

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Entertainment

Live Sports

Football (Aussie rules) What’s the name of the league? The Australian Football League (AFL). Who are the teams? Sydney has two teams playing in the national AFL comp - the Sydney Swans and Greater Western Sydney Giants. Where do they play? When playing in NSW, the Sydney Swans play their home games at the Sydney Cricket Ground in Moore Park, and the Giants play at Skoda Stadium, Olympic Park. The big games and derbies are normally played at the larger ANZ Stadium in Homebush. How much does it cost? Student tickets range from $16.50 $46.50. Who’s the captain of the team? The current Sydney Swans captain is Jarrad McVeigh. For the Giants it’s Phil Davis. Who are some star players? Sydney Swans’ star players include Adam Goodes and Lewis Jetta. For the Giants’ it’s Johnathon Patton and Rhys Palmer. Interesting Facts

Football (rugby league) What’s the name of the league? The National Rugby League (NRL). Who are the teams? The NRL has 16 teams, with ten clubs based in NSW. Teams based in Sydney include the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks, Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles, Parramatta Eels, South Sydney Rabbitohs and the Sydney Roosters. Where do they play? NRL games are generally played at ANZ Stadium, but there are grounds in the outer suburbs, too. How much does it cost? General admission tickets for a footy match range from $12 - $42. Who are some star players? Some star players include Billy Slater (Melbourne) and Todd Carney (Sydney). Interesting Facts The South Sydney Rabbitohs were once co-owned by Hollywood superstar Russell Crowe. There’s a traditional rivalry between the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the Sydney Roosters.

Since 1995, the Swans are the only team not to have missed the finals for consecutive seasons.

Entertainment

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Soccer What’s the name of the league? The Hyundai A-League. Who are the teams? Sydney has two teams in the major league, Sydney FC and Western Sydney Wanderers. Where do they play? Games take place at the Allianz Stadium, in Moore Park (Sydney FC) and Parramatta Stadium (Wanderers).

Basketball What’s the name of the league? The National Basketball League (NBL). Not to be confused with the American league, the NBA. Who are the teams? Sydney’s team is called the Sydney Kings. Where do they play? Games in NSW take place

How much does it cost? Tickets are between $18 $45 depending on where you want to sit. Who’s the captain of the team? The captain of Sydney FC is Terry McFlynn and for the Wanderers it’s Michael Beauchamp.

at the Sydney Entertainment Centre, in the Kingdome. How much does it cost? The cost of tickets to a game depends on where you sit. For concessions, they can range from $15 - $70. Who’s the captain of the team? Ian Crosswhite

Cricket What’s the name of the league? There are a number of different cricket leagues in Australia, but each state has a team in the Sheffield Shield series. Who are the teams? NSW has a team called the Blues.

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Where do they play? Some Sheffield Shield cricket matches in Sydney take place at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Others are played at the Blacktown International Sportspark. How much does it cost? About $15 - $20.

Entertainment

Who are some star players? Alongside Terry McFlynn, star players for Sydney FC include Alessandro Del Piero and Joel Chianese. For Greater Western Sydney it’s Shinji Ono and Michael Beauchamp. Interesting facts In Australia soccer is referred to as soccer, not ‘football’ as in some countries.

Who are some star players? Some of the star players include Scott Fisher and Ian Crosswhite. Interesting facts Basketballers can actually become quite wealthy from their sport - this year, the salary cap was increased to $1million a year for single players

Who’s the captain of the team? The captain of the Blues is Steve O’Keefe. Who are some star players? Some of the star players include Simon Katich, Phillip Hughes, Patrick Commins and Michael Clarke.

Live Music Where? The Newtown Social Club on King St in Newtown is one of Sydney’s homes of punk with many local bands playing there regularly.

Punk & Metal If you like a bit of thrash or head banging with your beer, there are loads of places for you to head to in Sydney.

Folk As home to many aspiring folk musicians, you’ll likely be able to find an acoustic-guitar toting troubadour in every second venue you enter in Sydney. Where? The Hollywood Hotel in the CBD, decked out in ‘50s style, is home to many a

Darlinghurst offers a punk alternative to clubbing with Hot Damn, a night of bands, punk DJs and even an indoor skate ramp every Thursday at 44 Oxford St.

crooner on weeknights. Once again, Oxford Art Factory in Darlinghurst is a go-to, with Folk Night every Wednesday. In Surry Hills, you’ll also find Cafe Lounge, which houses a solid line-up of local folk musicians. Who? Northern Beaches local Angus Stone (of Angus

for you, this is one of the most popular genres in Sydney. Where?

Indie Bands referring to themselves as ‘indie’ tend toward guitar-orpiano based pop. Lucky

One of the best places to check out local indie acts is at Darlinghurst’s Oxford Art Factory. International acts tend to play at larger venues such as The Enmore and The Metro. Who? Sydney locals The Jeza-

Entertainment

Who? Some of Sydney’s local punks include Frenzal Rhomb and the Splatterheads. If you happen to be more into metal, check out small record stores like Repressed Records for instore shows and signings. How much? Local acts - even the big names - tend to play for under $10 (often free) most shows. Bigger bands might ask up to $80.

and Julia Stone) is a good bet, as are emerging locals The Poet and The Thief. How much? Shows at Oxford Art Factory and Cafe Lounge tend to be free or under $10. The Vanguard in Newtown tends to be a little more expensive and tickets can head up to $60.

bels are on a fast track to worldwide success. Following in their wake are acts like Matt Corby, Straight Arrows and lots more. How much? Most shows at the Oxford Art Factory are between $10 and $40 depending on who’s playing. Some of the bigger international artists can ask for more than $100 a ticket.

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clubs catering to it. Bamboo at Martin Place and The Standard in Surry Hills are good choices. Who?

Hip hop Although Sydney has a huge hip hop scene, there aren’t that many

DJs Home to some of Australia’s most famous international dance acts, Sydney has a great DJ scene. Where? The best place to see Sydney dance legends in action is at one of the many nightclubs. For straight-up electro and

Pop Sydney is also home to lots of this country’s best top 40 pop. Think Kylie, Sia and Justice Crew. Where? Super famous international acts tend to perform at the Allphones Arena or Sydney Entertainment Centre. Smaller local pop

One of Australia’s biggest hip hop acts, The Herd, are from Sydney, as are ‘nerd-hop’ band TZU and

dubstep, head to the home of Bang Gang and Starf***ers DJs, King’s Cross’ Club 77. For a more alternative DJ experience, check out The Abercrombie Hotel on a Saturday night for Strange Fruits. Who? Keep your eye out at indie or punk gigs for emerging DJs playing between sets.

stars like Matt Corby or Justice Crew might play at the Enmore or Metro Theatres. Who? Almost every big international tour stops in Sydney, so you can expect to see some of the world’s biggest names playing here.

producer Urthboy and The Tounge. How much? Most emerging acts play at clubs, so you’ll normally just have to pay a regular entry fee, usually under $20.

How much? Most of the time you’ll just need to pay the club entry fee to see your favourite DJ. But if you want to see a well-known international star, tickets can cost you a fair bit. It helps if you like the club on Facebook where you can sometimes get onto a VIP list.

How much? Local acts may play for under $50, but tickets to the international shows certainly aren’t cheap and you’ll need to save your dollars. Tickets to shows at the Entertainment Centre or Allphones will be at least $80 and can sometimes cost up to $150 depending on the artist.

Australia Student Guide Smartphone App To keep up to date with the music events around you, be sure to check the events calendar in the Australia Student Guide App.

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Entertainment

Net Cafés, Gaming Arcades & Karaoke Everyone likes to let off a little steam after a long day at uni, so if gaming is your thing, or you just want to check in with your family back home, there are plenty of arcades and net cafés in Sydney. Of course, another way to relax is with a group of your best mates blasting out your favorite tracks at a karaoke bar, so we have included a couple of these.

Echo Point 262 Pitt St, Sydney Belt out all the classics here with your friends for a great price. The decor doesn’t look too good, but at least you won’t be too worried about damaging things as you jump around pretending to be your favourite ‘70s rock star. It’s cheap for drinks as well and open late. 9283 1618

www.echopoint.com.au

Karaoke World 185 Elizabeth St, Sydney Established in 1994, Karaoke World is Sydney’s first Karaoke Room venue. With over 120,000 songs in their system, you can find tracks in English, Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Indonesian and Korean. They also have 18 different private rooms catering for intimate groups or bigger ones. This place is definitely worth a look if you love being the centre of attention! 9283 8283

www.karaokeworld.com.au

Central Internet Cafe 203 Elizabeth St, Surry Hills Sometimes you just need a computer - the guys at Central Internet Cafe can help you out. With computers and secure internet facilities, you won’t need to go anywhere else. 9281 8266

City Hunter Level 1, 374 Sussex St, Sydney City Hunter is a chain of internet gaming facilities. Prices are about $3 an hour and vary depending on the kind of seating and quality of the computer you use. 9261 0768

www.cityhunter.com.au

Intencity Broadway Shopping Centre, 1 Bay St, Broadway There’s a whole world of both traditional and modern arcade games that you can either play individually or with friends. With old-school arcade games as well as more contemporary games, you’ll easily spend hours in here. 9281 5811

www.intencity.com.au

Entertainment

Galaxy World 614 - 624 George St, Sydney Galaxy World Amusement Centre is easily your one stop shop when you’re looking for ways to spend an afternoon. It has the largest range of the latest and greatest arcade titles in the state, including eTicket Games and Skill Testers. You can easily spend hours here, testing yourself on the games and trying to win. www.galaxyworld.com.au

5 most popular karaoke songs in Australia Mama Mia Abba Khe Sahn Cold Chisel Livin’ On A Prayer Bon Jovi Sexual Healing Marvin Gaye Summer Nights Grease

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Cinemas The wide selection of cinemas in Sydney will satisfy even the pickiest movie buff in town! What’s more, if you’re a student, you’ll even get a student discount on the latest movies. Remember to always check out nearby cinemas and their latest deals for some irresistible offers.

Palace Verona Cinemas 17 Oxford St, Paddington Sydney’s foremost art-house cinema, the Palace Verona on Oxford St is one of the best places in the city to catch more unusual flicks. There’s a bar and coffee shop within the cinema too, for you to discuss (and often try to understand) the film after the screening. The average student ticket price is between $10.50 and $14.50 depending when you go. www.palacecinemas.com.au/ cinemas/verona/

Moonlight Cinema Belvedere Amphitheatre, Centennial Park (on the corner of Loch Ave & Broome Ave), Paddington During the warmer months, take advantage of the pleasant evening weather and head outdoors for the Moonlight Cinema experience. Bring along a picnic, group of friends and some pillows to get comfy. Gates open at 6.30pm and screenings start at sundown. If you really want to settle in, a limited number of bean beds are available. Tickets are also a reasonable $16. www.moonlight.com.au

Event Cinemas 505-525 George St, Sydney If you’re after a more traditional movie experience, head to the George St Event Cinemas in Sydney’s CBD. With more screens than anywhere else in the inner city, Event has a huge range of flicks to check out and student discounts available everyday. There’s also a Gold Class cinema, where, for a little more cash, you get a recliner chair fitted with a call button that’ll see staff fetch you snacks! www.eventcinemas.com.au

Govinda’s Cinema and Restaurant 112 Darlinghurst Rd, Darlinghurst A Sydney institution, Govinda’s combines two great activities - dinner and a movie - in one fun, affordable venue. With a vegetarian menu that has a focus on Indian cuisine, you’re encouraged to fill your plate while you catch one of the current-release films that screen. Once you’ve collected enough food to fill up, settle in to one of the cushioned recliner chairs patrons often take off their shoes and cosy up.

Dendy Cinemas 261-263 King St, Newtown This one is a consistently high-quality cinema that host cool film festivals. Students can get $10 movie tickets by joining their club member program. Members also get discounts at a range of other places such as restaurants, theatres and shops. 9247 3800

www.dendy.com.au

Bondi Open-air Cinema Bondi Pavilion, 1 Queen Elizabeth Dr, Bondi Beach Bondi Open-air Cinema is another outdoor cinema program running in the summer. Local bands perform before the sun goes down and the screen lights up at around 8.15pm. Get there at 5.30pm though to secure your spot! Tickets are $13.90 for concessions. 1300 438 849

www.bondiopenair.com.au

www.govindas.com.au

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Entertainment

Galleries If you feel like expanding your mind and enjoying some culture, an art gallery is your best bet and there are plenty around Sydney to keep you busy.

Art Gallery of NSW

Museum of Contemporary Art

Art Gallery Rd, The Domain, Sydney The Art Gallery is home to an impressive array of works from Australian and international artists. The permanent collection includes galleries purely dedicated to Indigenous artists, colonial Australian works and of course the European masters of the great art movements. You can also see special exhibitions and temporary art exhibitions including the Archibald Prize entries, which is for portraiture. If all this analysis of art gets too much, there’s always the café to sit in.

140 George St, The Rocks As the name suggests, the Museum of Contemporary Art holds a huge range of modern and recent artworks from Australian and international artists. It first opened in 1991 and has one of the largest and most impressive collections in the country. There’s so much to see here, it’s almost impossible to cover it all in one day. Guided tours are also available and they’re free, making them a great way to see the entire gallery with someone who knows their stuff.

1800 679 278

www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au

Object: Australian Centre for Design 417 Bourke St, Surry Hills Object is one cool place. There’s really no other way to describe it. Nurturing Australia’s design culture, this gallery houses contemporary and modern design in almost every single medium imaginable. It’s free admission too, so it’s a great way to while away the hours. www.object.com.au

www.mca.com.au

Sydney University Art Gallery Sydney University Although it’s housed at the Sydney University, the University Art Gallery doesn’t hold masterpieces by the budding student artists. Instead, it holds more than 2,600 artworks by Australian, Asian and European artists that have been given to the university or commissioned. Expect to see a whole range of paintings, prints, photography, sculpture and ceramics.

White Rabbit Gallery 30 Balfour St, Chippendale White Rabbit is Sydney’s impressive contemporary Chinese art collection. With most works created after the year 2000, there’s a very modern vibe, especially with the mixed media and video works. At 2pm every Sunday they show a free movie in their cinema and don’t announce what it is until right before, so you’re guaranteed a surprise. If you need some snacks to keep you going, White Rabbit also houses a Tea House, selling some of the best dumplings in town. 8399 2867

whiterabbitcollection.org.au

www.sydney.edu.au/museums

Entertainment

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DISCOVER YOUR NEW CITY THE EASY WAY CSU STUDY CENTRES – MELBOURNE AND SYDNEY Discover your bustling new home, make friends quickly and improve your English skills, all while you prepare yourself for an exciting future career. CSU Study Centres offer you the choice to complete a Charles Sturt University (CSU) qualification in one of Australia’s two major cities – Melbourne or Sydney. CSU Study Centres offer undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Accounting, Business and Information Technology.

CSU Study Centres are run in collaboration with Study Group Australia, a global leader in international education and training. Together, CSU and Study Group Australia provide outstanding educational opportunities that enable each and every student to achieve his or her personal best. Our campuses are located in the heart of each city, so you’ll be in the centre of the action surrounded by the best restaurants, bars, cosmopolitan café’s, shopping stores and all the excitement a city brings! With three intakes a year, competitive fees and credit for prior learning, now is the time to enrol to get a recognised university degree.

www.csustudycentres.edu.au The Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). Provider Number for Charles Sturt University is 00005F (NSW), 01947G (VIC), and 02960B (ACT). 14894A.11.12

Join us on Facebook! Get the latest updates from our campuses, speak to current students and fellow newcomers.

Enrol and you could win! Visit www.csustudycentres.edu.au/insider or scan the QR code to find out how you could win the ultimate new city experience for you and your new friends! Prize pool is valued at over $500 and includes tickets to the hottest concerts, latest movies and sporting games!

Theatre & Live Arts Sydney has a thriving live arts scene, especially during the warmer months. There’s never a shortage of theatre shows and dance companies touring Sydney, and usually, students can get themselves a pretty cheap deal.

Wharf Theatre Pier 4/5, Hickson Rd, Walsh Bay The Sydney Theatre Company is easily one of the most renowned theatre companies in the world and shows tend to feature big names, both local and international. You can expect to see the likes of Hugo Weaving, Cate Blanchett and many more treading the boards. If you’re interested in seeing one of the company’s standout shows, make sure to book early - the blockbuster theatre shows tend to sell out quickly. If you miss out, check the website to see if there are ‘rush’ tickets offered on the morning of the performance - there usually are, and they can be quite cheap! www.sydneytheatre.com.au

The Sydney Opera House 2 Macquarie St, Sydney It goes without saying that the most prestigious theatre in Sydney is the iconic Sydney Opera House. It’s sail-like appearance and gorgeous interiors make it one of the nicest and most luxurious live arts venues in the country, if not the world. The Sydney Opera House used to be used for just that, opera - but in more recent years, it has become a venue for travelling musicians and international theatrical productions. Expect to pay top dollar to see a show at the Opera House - but often performances as part of a festival might be a little cheaper. www.sydneyoperahouse.com.au

What’s On? The City of Sydney ‘What’s On’ Website provides information on events occurring within the City of Sydney area and includes a search option for free events or events occurring in your local area. The site includes categories such as exhibitions, markets, business events, seminars, food and drink and music. Searches can be completed by category or by the date of the event. Check out the ‘What’s On’ website at: www.whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Belvoir 25 Belvoir St, Surry Hills The younger, hipper sister to Sydney Theatre Company, Belvoir is 25 years old this year - and it puts on theatre that’s proving very popular with its contemporaries. The stallion of the Belvoir stables is young Australian director Simon Stone, whose current show, Death of a Salesman, is a record-breaking sellout starring Colin Friels. Tickets average $60, but if you can show a student ID, you’ll receive a significant discount, usually bringing the price down to $40. www.belvoir.com.au

Griffin Theatre 13 Craigend St, Kings Cross Griffin Theatre is Australia’s leading theatre for checking out new writing. If you’re a big theatre fan, Griffin shows will be your idea of heaven, showing off the latest innovations for the stage. Established in 1979, Griffin Theatre has built a strong reputation for its lo-fi atmosphere, welcoming attitude to new work and encouragement of young theatre. While adult ticket prices are an average $49 for a show, if you bring along a student concession card, you’ll score entry for just $36. www.griffintheatre.com.au

Entertainment

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UNSW Institute of Languages Never Stand Still

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Experienced teachers and great facilities to assist your study and career ambitions

Events Calendar Jan

Feb

Mar

Sydney Festival

St Jerome’s Laneway Festival

Future Music Festival

5 - 27 Jan, various locations What better way to celebrate living in this gorgeous city than with a summer festival? Featuring everything and anything that entertains, expect to see music, dance, theatre and visual arts. www.sydneyfestival.org.au

Big Day Out Jan 18, Sydney Showground Australia’s biggest touring music festival actually started in Sydney and is run by a Sydney company. Featuring a huge line-up of international acts as well as local favourites, the Big Day Out promises a whole day of awesome tunes - it’s an Australian summer tradition! www.bigdayout.com.au

Slam Beach Volleyball Festival 12 Jan, Cronulla Beach Slam is the largest volleyball party you will ever see in the southern hemisphere. It’s an awesome beach party filled with music, girls, guys, fashion and some damn fun beach volleyball action. With a focus on health and wellbeing, this is a day for you to forget the semester you’re about to face and start enjoying the beach in style! www.slamfestival.com.au

2 Feb, Sydney College of the Arts If you prefer your music a little more underground, the St Jerome’s Laneway Festival will probably be for you. Featuring an eclectic selection of acts from around the world, as well as some of Australia’s best indie artists, it’s a unique festival experience - and one of the cheaper festivals touring the country. www.lanewayfestival.com.au

Chinese New Year 8 - 24 Feb, various locations Sydney has a large Asian population - as well as plenty of Aussies who are keen to get in on the action - so Chinese New Year is a big deal. Expect a whole range of celebrations, including markets, traditional dragon boat races and of course, fireworks. www.sydneychinesenewyear. com.au

Mardi Gras 12 Feb - 4 Mar Mardi Gras is the biggest GLBTIQ celebration in the world. The main attraction is the parade, where many people dress up and floats are driven through Oxford Street and down Darlinghurst. Also check out the other events in the Mardi Gras, such as the Fair Day. www.mardigras.org.au

Entertainment

10 Mar, Flemington Racecourse The Future Music Festival always presents an impressive line-up of artists - with a healthy mixture of dance, DJs and live artists too. This year you can expect to see The Prodigy and The Stone Roses. www.futureentertainment.com. au/futuremusicfestival

St Patrick’s Day 17 March, various locations Australia has a rich Irish heritage and Aussies love any excuse for a good party, so St Patrick’s Day becomes a pretty big deal. Most pubs around the city will be filled with all things green, as well as plenty of very thirsty folk.

Living in Harmony Festival Mar - Apr, various locations The Living in Harmony Festival forms part of a national program, the Diversity and Social Cohesion Program; which aims to address issues of cultural, racial and religious intolerance by promoting respect, fairness, inclusion and a sense of belonging for everyone. In 2013 the City will organise the 11th annual Living in Harmony Festival, with opportunities for all to learn more about diverse cultures, people and cultural sites. livinginharmonyfestival.com

www.insiderguides.com.au

Apr

May

Jun

Bachata Festival

Vivid Sydney

Sydney Film Festival

27 - 29 Apr, Roundhouse @ UNSW The sexy, sensual partner dance of Bachata from the Dominican Republic has its own festival here in Sydney. We’re talking 3 days and 4 nights of awesome performances, Latin Dance workshops, crazy parties and more!!

24 May - 6 Jun, various locations Another one of Sydney’s famous festivals, Vivid Festival is a music, arts and ideas celebration, with lights, lights, lights. Some of Sydney’s most iconic landmarks are lit up throughout the festival to create a gorgeous nightscape. It’s easily a must-see while you’re in Sydney.

5 - 16 Jun, various locations If you love going to the cinema, you’re going to love the Sydney Film Festival. Featuring the best films from Australia and around the world, the festival also sees filmmakers talk about their craft. Definitely a must-see for those interested in film and making movie.

www.vividsydney.com.au

Supanova

www.bachatafestival.com.au

Holi Mahotsav 5 - 7 Apr, Darling Habour Sydney’s biggest Indian Festival is the Holi Mahotsav. The festival features cultural workshops, meditation and yoga as well as dance and music. Don’t forget the delicious food and unique stalls!

Bluesfest 5 - 9 Apr, Byron Bay Get your travelling boots on again and head out to Byron Bay for another stellar festival in this beachside town. It’s easily one of the biggest festivals in the country, featuring hundreds of well-known blues and roots artists. www.bluesfest.com.au

Sydney Writers’ Festival 20 - 26 May, various locations The Sydney Writers’ Festival is a pretty big deal amongst readers, writers and anyone interested in literature. There are hundreds of authors, both local and international, who come out and discuss their works as well as a whole range of different genres. With lectures on fiction, poetry and journalism, it’s definitely worth a look. www.swf.org.au

State of Origin May - Jul Aussies are sports mad. The State of Origin is the biggest sporting event in NSW as their rugby league team challenges the Queensland team over a 3-game series. www.nrl.com

www.sff.com.au

21 - 23 Jun, Sydney Showground, Olympic Park Have your friends often referred to you as a ‘nerd’? If so, you might find yourself at home at Supanova. It’s essentially heaven for anyone interested in sci-fi and pop culture. You can expect to meet actors from your favourite tv shows and authors of your favourite books. www.supanova.com.au

Good Food & Wine Show 28 - 30 Jun, Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre If sampling a whole range of excellent food and wine from around the country sounds like your kind of thing, the Good Food and Wine Show is for you. There’s also a chance to see world-class chefs in action and sample the finest cuisine. www.goodfoodshow.com.au

whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Entertainment

Jul

Aug

Sep

Splendour in the Grass

SMASH!

Sydney Fringe

10 Aug, Sydney Convention Centre This convention is for those dedicated lovers of anime, manga, video games and all things Japanese. Dress up, enter the competitions and register to take part in game playing and other events.

13 Sep - 6 Oct, various locations Fringe festivals are supposed to bring a whole range of musical, theatrical and comical acts to the general public - and the Sydney Fringe outdoes itself every year. The best thing is that most of the tickets are pretty cheap, so you can see more than one thing!

Late Jul, North Byron Parklands, Byron Bay Easily one of Australia’s biggest and most revered music festivals, Splendour in the Grass combines everything good - live music, friends and camping. Big names who have previously visited the festival include The Strokes, Jack White, Kanye West and Coldplay. It’s a of a drive, but it’s worth it! www.splendourinthegrass. com.au

Sydney Whale Watching Mid Jul, various locations Never seen one of the ocean’s most majestic beasts before? This might be your best chance! See the city from the water’s edge before heading out the open ocean on boats, catching a glimpse of the first humpback whale migration of the season. www.sydneywhalewatching.com

National Tree Planting Day 28 Jul, various locations Helping out our planet is something Australia prides itself on which is why, every July, we get out and plant a few trees. Grab a few mates and revegetate a local area.

www.smash.org.au

The Sun-Herald City2Surf 11 Aug, CBD Want to run or walk from the CBD to Bondi Beach with tens of thousands of people for charity? This is a huge event in Sydney, with over 80,000 contestants last year. Raise money for a bunch of charities and enjoy the 14km journey! www.city2surf.com.au

Bellingen Jazz Festival Late Aug, Bellingen Jazz lovers of all types can come to Bellingen to enjoy this long weekend of live music and dancing. The Jazz Festival features some of Australia’s key players in the jazz scene, as well as the up-and-coming talent. Plus, there’s swing dancing (with some lessons). bellingenjazzfestival.com.au

www.treeday.planetark.org

www.thesydneyfringe.com.au

Art & About 20 Sep – 20 Oct, various locations A free arts festival throughout the city, Art and About is over ten years old and a proven favourite among locals. The public areas of the city are transformed by installation art pieces and street art, giant photos, sculptures and more. Be transfixed, be thoughtful and be inspired as art takes over Sydney for the month. www.artandabout.com.au

Sydney Underground Film Festival Early Sep, various locations The most challenging works of filmmakers are chosen to be part of this film festival, which looks at experimental indie films. Multiple films shown every night of the festival with a feature on opening night. www.suff.com.au

Entertainment

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Oct

Nov

Dec

Oktoberfest

Hola! Mexican Film Festival

Christmas in Sydney

Whole month of Oct, various locations Just another way Australia celebrates it’s multicultural nature is with Oktoberfest - the German festival. It combines everything Aussies love - great food, loud music and good beer.

Parklife Early Oct, Centennial Park For many Aussies, the arrival of Parklife is the start of the summer festival season. With a mixture of dance, pop and some live acts, the best part about this festival is the venue - the park right in the middle of the city! It’s certainly a unique day out. www.parklife.com.au

Crave Food Festival Whole month of Oct, various locations Sydney is definitely the food capital of Australia and in October there is a whole month to celebrate this. There’s food and wine on show and demonstrations all around the city from the best chefs, but the real highlights are the markets, where you can get yourself some produce or some hot food from vendors.

Late Oct - Early Nov, various locations Mexican culture is just another of the many to have entwined itself in Australia’s cultural background - and it’s all the better for it! The Hola! Mexican Film Festival has a whole bunch of excellent films on offer and tickets are pretty reasonable too! www.holamexicoff.com.au

Stereosonic Late Nov, Sydney Olympic Park If you love your electronic dance music, you’ll want to be in attendance at Stereosonic. One of Australia’s biggest dance festivals, you can expect all the big names as well as local DJs. This is the real start of the festival season - and summer! www.stereosonic.com.au

www.cravesydney.com

Nov - Dec, various locations It’s time to put on your reindeer ears and Santa hats and come join the party, because Christmas 2013 is going to be Sydney’s most fun-filled festive season ever! The city will be sparkling with decorations and choirs will be singing in our streets. After dark things will become even more magical with Sydney Town Hall lit up nightly in an amazing display of festive images and our iconic Martin Place Christmas tree twinkling with thousands of fairy lights. www.sydneychristmas.com.au

New Year’s Eve 31 Dec, Sydney Harbour Bridge The Sydney New Year’s Eve program comprises a number of events leading up to the spectacular Midnight Fireworks. We’re talking about aerial acrobatics (small planes), Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Smoking Ceremonies and more. However, the real show is at midnight on the Harbour Bridge. We recommend checking out the website to find the best place to watch the show from the shore. This is truly spectacular and something you will remember forever. www.sydneynewyearseve.com

whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Entertainment

Adventure

Aus

Introduction The CBD and surrounding suburbs are full of sights and smells for the curious student. From the beautiful Botanic Gardens to inner city theme parks to wildlife attractions, there’s an adventure to be had by all. With the city located on the Harbour and along the coastline, you’ll want to get out to experience the water sports, sightseeing

ferries and the surf. There are also the hidden delights of the city, which only the locals really know about. Just out of Sydney are some of Australia’s most stunning bushland and mountain ranges. In the north there’s the Hawkesbury River and further north the Nymboi-Binderay National Park where you can white-water raft or bushwalk. To the south there are both marine parks

where you can scubadive and national parks where you can experience stunning rainforest and classic Australian bush. To the west are the amazing Blue Mountains. There’s so much to see, we’ve just selected a few of our favourite spots to include in this section. Soon you’ll understand how Sydney locals take advantage of their beautiful city.

Did You Know? The distance between Adelaide and Sydney is 1,400km, which means driving for 16 hours across three states. If you wanted to drive from Brisbane to Cairns (both in Queensland), it would take 20 hours or 1,700km.

Adventure

www.insiderguides.com.au

Need to Knows Airfares Travelling around Australia by plane can be a pretty cheap way to get around - you just need to look for a bargain. Keep your eyes on the budget airlines Jetstar, Tiger and Virgin – you can often get deals for under $100 one way!

Couch Surfing To save even more money travelling you can try couch surfing – instead of staying and paying for accommodation, you join this community and stay on couches. Sign up on the website and check out where you can stay. It’s a great way to meet new people and save some money. www.couchsurfing.com.au

Cheap Accommodation Being a student means you probably don’t have a whole lot of money to spend on luxurious accommodation. Luckily Australia has plenty of cheap places to stay – keep your eyes out for hostels, backpackers or motels when you’re travelling. Check out websites like Lastminute and Wotif for regular specials. www.wotif.com www.lastminute.com.au

The Seasons Australian seasons are the opposite of those in the Northern hemisphere. Australian summers start in December and end in March, and winters start in June through to August. Expect plenty of very hot, dry weather in summer and wet, windy days in winter.

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Adventure

Cheap & Free Activities So you need to save your pennies? Don’t worry! There’s still plenty of stuff to do around Sydney that wont break your bank account or doesn’t cost a thing! Plus, the best bit is, most of these activities are outside so you can see more of the city.

- and you’ll arrive in North Sydney at the historic Luna Park! Who do I go with?

Walk the Sydney Harbour Bridge Get a view of the city from one of its greatest landmarks - the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Walking over the bridge affords you a 360 degree vista of all Sydney’s beautiful harbour has to offer

This is a great activity to do with one friend - you can chat as you walk over and enjoy it. Where do I go? The Sydney Harbour Bridge links Circular Quay with Northern Sydney. Start out at the base of the bridge on the Quayside you’ll find it at the western side of Sydney Harbour

A Picnic in The Royal Botanic Garden

spot for serenity and nature right in the middle of the city. Find a picnic spot overlooking the water, check out an exhibition in the refurbished greenhouse, or get prickly at the succulent garden - all for free!

Also right near Circular Quay is Sydney’s spectacular Royal Botanic Garden. One of Sydney’s first public spaces, the gardens is a

The Botanic Garden is located at East Circular Quay, just around the corner from the Sydney Opera House.

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Where do I go?

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(it’s very hard to miss!). When should I go? An early evening walk is the most impressive - as you get a 360-degree panorama of the Sydney sunset. How much will it cost? Walking the Sydney Harbour Bridge is free and just as exciting as the Bridge Climb feature that lets you hike right up to the top (but this will cost you a fair bit).

Who do I go with? Bring a bunch of friends to picnic with, or take a special someone for a romantic garden wander. When should I go? The Botanic Garden is open from 10am – 5pm every day of the year. How much will it cost? Apart from the cost of your picnic, entry to the garden is free!

www.insiderguides.com.au

Where should I go?

Head to Manly Sydney’s ‘other’ beachside suburb, Manly is a great day trip that can be done on the cheap, and an excellent way to appreciate more of the Australian lifestyle.

A short ferry trip across Sydney Harbour from Circular Quay, Manly is a quaint beachside suburb tucked away at the bottom of the northern beaches. Although the main attraction of Manly is its beautiful beaches that stretch across the suburb’s main street, there’s plenty to keep visitors and locals in Manly busy all year round. Who should I go with? Take some friends who haven’t been before so

at Luna Park by going with a big group of friends – make sure there’s someone brave enough to take on the roller-coaster.

Luna Park Luna Park is a Sydney landmark - with an entry made of a giant grinning face, it’s easy to imagine that you’ll have fun. A refurbished 1930’s amusement park, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Who should I go with? An old-school theme park, revisit your childhood days

Where should I go? Luna Park is located in Milsons Point, just under the northern end of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It’s incredibly easy to get to by train, ferry, bus or car. When should I go? Luna Park is usually open over the weekends – Friday, Saturday, Sundays

you can explore all Manly has to offer. When should I go? As a beachside suburb, Manly is best in the summertime. How much will it cost? After a cheap ferry ride (under $10 return), the only thing you’ll really want or need to buy is an ice cream or beer, which should only set you back about $5. Of course, there are plenty of places to grab a good, cheap meal too.

and Mondays. The park will sometimes open every day during peak times, like the school holidays. For a spectacular view from the rollercoaster, head over at night time - you’ll be able to see the whole of Sydney lit up. How much will it cost? Entry to Luna Park is free, but like any good amusement park, each ride requires tickets. However, you can get an unlimited rides pass for as little as $30.

Australia Student Guide Smartphone App For great day trip ideas, check out the Adventure section. Download now for free from the App Store and Google Play.

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

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Group Activities These activities probably aren’t something you are going to do daily as they cost a little bit more.

Where should I go?

Ice-skating It seems weird that you would be able to go ice-skating in Sydney, one of the world’s sunniest cities, but indeed you can - and it’s loads of fun.

The Macquarie Ice Rink is the best in town and is at the Macquarie Shopping Centre on Waterloo Road in North Ryde. Who should I go with? Take a big group of friends and get ready to fall over, hold onto and trip up each other! When should I go? They’re open every day

beaches - a quick Google search will find you options. Where should I go?

Surfing If you’ve been to Bondi Beach already and admired the surfers (c’mon, who hasn’t?), it’s time to get out there and try this typically Aussie activity for yourself. There are many surf schools operating at each of Sydney’s

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The easiest beaches to access are Bondi Beach and Coogee – they don’t have scary surf either so are a good starting point. When should I go? Unless you like plunging into icy-cold water, organise your surf adventure for the summer months - but remember to wear and

Adventure

except Christmas Day and operate with day and night sessions. These sessions differ between school term and school holidays, so take care when checking session times on their website. How much will it cost? If you go with a group of mates, a skate session is a lot cheaper, with 10-20 friends each getting a go for $20 each, rather than the regular $35.

reapply sunscreen as the beach sun can be harsh. Who should I go with? Take a friend along who is also keen - you’ll have someone to giggle with as you learn. How much will it cost? Surf lessons vary in cost but tend to be around $50-$100 a lesson in Sydney. Often, surf school’s websites will offer special deals, so do your research.

www.insiderguides.com.au

Days to Relax Australia Day January 26th (Jan 28th Public Holiday) Commemorates the arrival of the first fleet of ships from England and celebrates the nation we’ve become. There’s an awesome celebration of music from the past year on Triple J, called the Hottest 100. Relaxing with friends and listening to music is a must. Queen’s Birthday June 10th This isn’t the Queen’s exact birthday, but it’s a great excuse for a day off and one of the best things about being in the Commonwealth. It’s probably why Australia isn’t a republic yet! Anzac Day April 25th This day of remembrance is for all the men and women who served their country at war. While it’s a serious occasion and there are parades and services held all over the country that you could attend, it’s also a day off work and uni!

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

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Labour Day October 7th This day celebrates Labour Unions and the rights for workers that they have achieved. Of course, most Aussies don’t know that, but they know it’s a great day for a barbecue and to go on holiday. Good Friday & Easter Monday March 29th – April 1st People take advantage of the long weekend to go on holiday. If you are planning on taking a trip at this time of year, then book accommodation early! It’s also a great time to get together with friends and have some fun, as the weather is generally mild. The other major holidays are Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day, which are all from December 25th to January 1st. Many businesses are shut for the whole period, and others have different opening hours, so you’ll need to check them as the holidays arrive.

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Local Sites One of the best things about arriving in a new city is exploring and discovering those new cultural places. Thankfully, Sydney has plenty of excellent museums and gardens to wander through.

Chinese Gardens of Friendship South End, Darling Harbour If you’ve never been to China, this little slice of Chinese horticulture will transport you there instantly. Initiated by the local Chinese community, the gardens were built to celebrate Australia’s 1988 bicentenary. The garden features all the traditional Chinese elements - a waterfall, koi pond, pagoda and even a teahouse. This is a wonderful little place to wind down, as well as a prime spot for budding photographers. You can spend a few hours here and explore all the paved pathways, and then stop off at the teahouse for some tea and scones, or the more traditional dumplings. www.darlingharbour.com.au

Fastlane Karting

Australian Museum 6 College St, Sydney The biggest and the best museum in the country can be found in Sydney. Expect to spend the best part of a day here, wandering through the many exhibitions on offer. There are often special exhibitions that pass through the museum but the regular installations are just as exciting as well. Make sure you visit the mummy exhibition, the dinosaur room and the skeleton display - but there are plenty of other awesome and quirky things here too. Best of all, it’ll only cost you $8 with your student card. If you want to visit the travelling exhibitions, you’ll need to pay a little extra. Visit the website to see what’s coming up soon. www.australianmuseum.net.au

20 Swettenham Rd, Minto Fancy yourself a good PlayStation racecar driver? Find out how you measure up against the legends of the Fastlane Karting’s Hall of Fame, as you race through the 500m outdoor bitumen tracks. Watch out for the tight corners! 9820 4422

www.fastlanekarting.com.au

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Powerhouse Museum 500 Harris St, Ultimo The Powerhouse Museum is a museum like no other. Exhibitions include items from Europe, Asia and Australia’s modern history, as well as the latest items from around the world and thought projects exploring the future. You’ll find amazing examples of technology and design in many of the exhibitions they house here, as well as the arts, science and music. Be sure to get yourself along to some of their events as well- it’s not just talks but performances and workshops which can get you up close and involved. www.powerhousemuseum.com

National Parks Here are a few national parks we think you should explore.

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Royal National Park Blue Mountains National Park Dorrigo National Park Warrumbungle National Park Nightcap National Park

www.insiderguides.com.au

The Sydney Harbour Bridge Widely regarded as one of the greatest engineering masterpieces known to humankind, Sydney Harbour Bridge was opened on 19 March 1932. The bridge contains over 6,000,000 hand-placed rivets. Initially it cost a car sixpence to cross while a horse and rider was charged threepence. The general design was prepared by Dr J.J.C Bradfield. It is a key piece of infrastructure for locals and its jaw-dropping magnificence make it a proud addition to the Sydney cityscape.

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

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Never be Bored Again.

Australia Student Guide

Ever. Local students know how to enjoy Australian cities. Now itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your turn.

Locals maintain the free Australia Student Guide app so you can discover the best nightlife, student specials, events, adventures, shops, experiences and more.

Day Trips So you’ve settled into the everyday grind of studying and you’re looking to getaway for a few hours and see the countryside. There are plenty of great places only an hour or two away from Sydney that are definitely worth seeing.

The Blue Mountains Distance from Sydney: 50km west of Sydney around an hour and a half train ride from the CBD. The easiest and quickest way to visit the Blue Mountains for a day trip is to catch a CityRail train from the CBD there are stations throughout the mountains district (we recommend you alight at Katoomba). The Blue Mountains are spectacular, with world-famous, breathtaking views. The main town to check out in the mountains region is Katoomba, home to the picturesque HydroMajestic Hotel that’s filled with 1920s charm. But be sure not to just stay in town instead, get out and explore the beautiful bush with an easy bushwalk - just make sure to do a little research online before you head out – and remember to bring a map!

Wollombi Distance from Sydney: 182km south of Sydney, around two hour’s drive A two hour drive from Sydney, Wollombi (not to be confused with similarsounding Wollongong) is a picturesque village that will give you a day trip that not only gets you out of the city, but also lets you step back in time. Historically a part of

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

the trade route of Australia’s Aborginal peoples, the village is steeped in history, with old buildings, churches and gardens for you to wander around. Get a sense of what social life would have been like in Australia’s early days with a visit to the town’s ‘Tavern’, and be sure to keep an eye out for the wooden sculptures dotted around the town that are the work of local artisans. The easiest way to get to Wollombi is by car.

Wisemans Ferry About 1 hour north of Sydney CBD On the massive Hawkesbury River is a little place to set up camp and do some fishing or water sports. This relaxed place was brought into the spotlight by author Kate Grenville, whose ancestor settled on the river. His house is now a popular and very pleasant accommodation spot that is apparently haunted by the ghost of his first wife. There is plenty of bushwalking in the area too, with National Parks surrounding this spot. hawkesburyaustralia.com.au

Sea Cliff Bridge About 1 hour south of Sydney CBD Opened December 11th 2005, the bridge was built after the old road on the cliffs was being eroded by weather and deemed too much at risk of falling rocks. The Bridge winds around away from the cliff and out over the ocean, providing stunning views. Much like some places in Europe, people have engraved their names on padlocks and locked them onto parts of the bridge. The bridge is located on Lawrence Hargrave Drive.

Jenolan Caves About 2.5 hours west of Sydney CBD The Jenolan Caves are a massive system of underground caves at the heart of the Blue Mountains. There are eleven caves that you can take a guided tour of or you can wander parts of the National Park for yourself. If you’re not feeling like your English is good enough yet, you can take a the self-guided tour which is available in multiple languages. On Saturdays they often hold concerts in the caves, which sound amazing. It costs $20 for a concession tour. 1300 763 311

www.jenolancaves.org.au

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Weekend Trips If there’s a long weekend coming up or maybe it’s the mid semester break it’s always nice to get away for a few days and explore some of the outer parts of the state. There are plenty of great places to visit overnight or for a couple of days.

Wollongong Distance from Sydney: 82 kilometres south of Sydney, around an hour’s drive Escape from Sydney to the beach-side regional city of Wollongong - only an hour’s drive from Central Sydney! Home to incredible beaches and great cafés (check out Lee and Me), Sydney’s southern cousin is the perfect place for a weekend getaway. Accessible by train, bus and car, Wollongong is a natural beauty, with an almost uninterrupted stretch of gorgeous beaches, and rainforest above the nearby cliffs.If you feel like a break, though, there’s plenty to do in the ‘Gong’ (as locals call it), with department stores and speciality retail (such as Music Farmers, a special vinyl record store). If you feel like a drink, head to the heritage listed Headlands Hotel or the Grand Hotel for a historical Wollongong experience.

refreshing change, with lots to see and do if you schedule a weekend or week long visit. Originally a coal-mining town, Newcastle has grown to be the second-largest city in NSW, with spectacular beaches and an emerging arts culture. Take a stroll along Nobby’s and Mereweather beaches, have coffee in the student suburb of Hamilton, or take in a rock gig at the biggest venue in town, the Cambridge Hotel. Each year, in the last weekend of September, Newcastle plays host to the state’s biggest emerging arts festival, This Is Not Art, a weekend full of new music, art and writing. Accommodation in Newcastle can be tricky to arrange at the last minute, so be sure to book in advance.

Berry Distance from Sydney: 145km south of Sydney, approximately 90 minutes drive.

Newcastle is great if you want to stay in a city - but see somewhere a bit different from Sydney. Just a couple of hours train or car ride from Sydney, Newcastle is a

For a taste of the country life, while still not venturing too far from Sydney, head south to Berry, a town very suited to its cute name. The small country town, on the South Coast, is famous for its beautiful local surrounds, quaint country houses and hospitality. Berry was the first rural town to be established after British settlement south of Sydney, and you can check out some amazing

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Newcastle Distance from Sydney: 162km north of Sydney, about an hour and threequarter’s drive or 2 hour train trip

historical buildings that are still being used in the town. If you can, time your visit to Berry for the first Sunday of the month to catch the famous local markets. In Berry, you’ll also find lots of great local cafés, antique stores and hobby crafts.

Essential Camping Items. • Torch • Fully charged phone • Plenty of water • Regional maps • Matches • Basic first aid kit • Cooking utensils

www.insiderguides.com.au

Wildlife Aside from its beautiful landscape, NSW plays host to a number of unique animals. Everyone knows the koala and kangaroo, but what about the wombat or the bilby? There are plenty of native animals housed in a number of wildlife parks in the city and a little further out of town.

Taronga Zoo

Sydney Aquarium

Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman Easily known as one of the best zoos in the country, Taronga Zoo is also one of the oldest in Australia. The zoo houses many native Australian animals, as well as plenty of foreign creatures, including some of the country’s only elephants. There are regular feeding displays and shows put on during the day so you can get closer to your favourite furry friends. Visiting the zoo also means a trip on the famous Sydney ferries and the view is pretty spectacular as well. Check the website for admission fees.

1-5 Wheat Rd, Sydney If you’re not really a fan of water, don’t despair. The Sydney Aquarium is easily the best place to come and learn more about the underwater sea life in Australia and around the world. Learn about the native dugongs, platypi as well as the huge range of fish. Head downstairs to immerse yourself in the huge shark tunnel. You’ll get a 360-degree view of the sharks, rays and fish as you walk next to, underneath and above them. You can also pick up some cute Aussie souvenirs in the gift shop once you’ve worked your way through the various tanks.

www.taronga.org.au

Australian Reptile Park Somersby, New South Wales A little further out of town is the Australian Reptile Park where you can get up close and very personal with plenty of native creepy crawlies. But don’t be put off if the idea of reptiles leaves you cold - there are all sorts of other Australian favourites housed at the park too including dingoes and koalas. There are all sorts of awesome shows during the day as well - don’t miss the Spider Talk to learn more about the deadly creatures that live in Australia.

www.sydneyaquarium.com

Wild Life Sydney Aquarium Wharf, Darling Harbour Once you’ve finished at the aquarium, why not walk next door and visit the Wild Life Sydney Zoo - the zoo found in the heart of the city. Wander through the various iconic Australian habitats and learn more about some of the native animals that call Australia home. Learn about the nocturnal animals in the Nightfall habitat and meet the huge 5 metre crocodile. You can also visit a butterfly enclosure and see daily feeding sessions. Best of all, you

don’t even have to leave the city to do it. Located right on Darling Harbour (and right next to the aquarium) you can get your fill of wildlife all in one day. www.wildlifesydney.com.au

Manly Sea Life Sanctuary West Esplanade, Manly If you feel like taking a bit of a day trip to the beachside suburb of Manly, make sure you visit the Manly Sea Life Sanctuary. You can experience a whole range of awesome sea life here, including Manly’s own penguins. If you’re particularly passionate about conservation, you can also learn about the sanctuary’s breeding, rescue and protection programs. But if you prefer to get a little more hands-on, you can visit the interactive rockpool and experience a shark egg or crab. manlysealifesanctuary.com.au

Did You Know? The box jellyfish is responsible for more deaths annually in Australia than snakes, sharks and saltwater crocodiles.

www.reptilepark.com.au

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

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Beaches No trip to Australia would be complete without a dip in the ocean and feeling the sand between your toes. We have some of the best beaches in the world – long stretches of golden sand, blue water and plenty of perfect waves for surfing. Sydney has plenty of quiet, gentle beaches for those who prefer sunbathing, but a little further up the coast there are beaches with some intense waves for those with a passion for surfing.

Coogee

Bondi

Coogee Beach is one of the city’s most popular, with a huge stretch of sand, as well as a large park and paved area bordering the beach that’s perfect for picnics, bike rides and games. Take advantage of the close proximity of many good food outlets and indulge in some traditional fish and chips from the beachside kiosk or even a beer from one of the beachfront hotels. A well-known ‘secret’ spot at Coogee is Gordons Bay, a calm and beautiful area around five minutes walk to the left of the main beach it’s the perfect place to try out snorkelling.

As Sydney’s most famous beach, Bondi is accessible via bus and is a relatively easy walk from the Bondi Junction train station. With a large beach, nearby skate bowl and the famous Icebergs bar and restaurant sitting over the water, it’s easy to spend a whole day at Bondi. Beware of crowds in summer though - it can be advisable to head to the beach earlier in the morning to be sure that you get a spot to put your towel. Bondi is also home to a great selection of food and drink venues - check out the Bucket List to soak up the sea breeze, or venture to the Beach Road Hotel to catch some local bands after a day on the sand.

Avalon If you’re keen for a bit of a trip away from Sydney, catch a bus or get a friend to drive you up to the Northern Beaches of Sydney to explore Avalon. Around an hour and a half from the Sydney CBD, Avalon is perfect for a beach escape. With deep yellow sands, and pristine beaches, this Avalon is a beach village that feels completely removed from the city of Sydney. While normally less crowded than the city beaches, Avalon does have a population of poisonous jellyfish that sometimes come ashore in summer - so keep an eye out!

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your visits for earlier in the day to get the best out of this pretty beach.

Bronte A little quieter than it’s blockbuster neighbours Bondi and Coogee, Bronte is the perfect beach for relaxing. With a family-friendly atmosphere - including a fun miniature train - local surf shops and cafés, and beautiful scenery, any day out at Bronte is sure to be enjoyable. For less confident swimmers or wannabe surfers, Bronte is the perfect place to start as it has a wonderful ocean pool that’s protected from crashing beach waves. Bronte is a little less accessible than other beaches - you can only get there via bus - but well worth the effort.

Cronulla The only beach in Sydney that’s directly accessible via train, Cronulla is located in Southern Sydney - or ‘The Shire’ as it’s known. With stunning cliffs and beaches, and only around an hour’s train ride from the CBD, Cronulla is a well-known surfing beach and also attracts a large number of snorkelers with some of its more secluded rockpools. Like it’s eastern cousins Bondi and Coogee, Cronulla can get very crowded over the summer holiday months so plan

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Essential Beach Items • Bathers/boardies • Towel • Sunscreen • Bottle of water • Hat • Sunglasses • Umbrella or beach tent • Thongs • Coins for parking

www.insiderguides.com.au

Safety tips

Swim between the flags

At most popular beaches you will see surf lifesavers who have worked out the safest part of the beach to swim. They communicate this by putting up big flags on the beach.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fight the rip or current

Rips are narrow powerful currents running out into the ocean. If you get pulled out to sea by the rip, do not try and fight it.

Swim with friends

Make sure you swim while your friends watch you. If you struggle, they can help you out or find someone nearby that can help you!

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t eat immediately before you swim

Wait at least half an hour before you go for a swim if you have just had a meal. You could get cramps and this could make swimming very difficult.

Also, many popular beaches have surf life-saving offices present, with life-savers patrolling the beaches at busy times. If you want more information on beach safety, check out www.surflifesavingsydney.com.au

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

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Discover Australia While youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re over here, it would be a waste not to see what the rest of Australia has to offer. Remember to look out for editions of Insider Guides that exist on Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth and Brisbane. See our website for more details.

Great Aussie Rail Experiences www.greatsouthernrail.com.au

7 The Overland

Indian PaciďŹ c The Ghan

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1 Perth

The most isolated city in the world, Perth is a busy metropolis with a strong sense of natural beauty. Located 20km inland from the Indian Ocean, Perth’s nightlife is bustling, its beaches are pristine and clean, shopping is relaxed but incredibly diverse and the ability to experience the real ‘great outdoors’ is made easy for locals and visitors.

2 Adelaide This city is always described as more of a country town, but that’s what makes it great! Of course, it’s anything but sleepy, particularly in the summer months as all the best festivals in Australia (and the world) come here to give the whole place a party atmosphere. There are beautiful wine regions and some of the best restaurants in Australia waiting to be discovered.

3 Hobart

6 Canberra Canberra is the capital of Australia. It’s a cosy little city and hosts some of the sites that many tourists add to their list of ‘must sees’ when they visit. These include the world famous National Gallery of Australia and the Australian War Memorial. It’s also where our Federal Parliament sits, and if you visit you can tour Parliament House and gain a deeper understanding of how our democracy works.

7 Melbourne

Locals proudly proclaim that a traffic jam here would rarely last more than a couple of minutes. For fans of the wilderness, Hobart is just a few hours from some of the world’s most beautiful bush walks. There are plenty of waterfront cafés, bars and some stunning restaurants. With a population of around 200,000, this city is perfect for a leisurely getaway.

4 Brisbane The locals are friendly, the beaches are some of Australia’s best, and the weather is great all year round. Brisbane is one of the most relaxed places in Australia, with a real party culture. South of Brisbane is the Gold Coast, a great place to swim and surf. If you head north you’ll find stunning rainforest conditions and the Glasshouse Mountains.

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

5 Sydney

Sydney has two of the icons that everyone associates with life ‘down under’: the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. It’s jam-packed full of everything to do in one city, with breath-taking harbours in the centre, the ability to buy almost anything you want, and some of the best beaches and scenery not too far away.

Known for its restaurant and café culture, Melbourne is the centre of classy urban Australian life. The shopping is second to none and the streets are lined with artwork. You can’t go without exploring some of the hidden laneway bars and cafés that showcase their proud culture of hospitality.

8 Darwin This is the real Aussie outback, well known for its wildlife and beautiful natural flora. There’s a stack of national parks in the Northern Territory and the sights are incredible, including the famous rock Uluru, right in the middle of the territory. Darwin is a very modern looking city as it was rebuilt after being almost wiped out by Cyclone Tracey in 1974.

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Thank You Insider Publishing would like to thank our Editors, Marleena Forward, Ellie Williams, Bridie Moran and Christie Legedza for their efforts this year. They researched their cities from the inside out. They listened to current students, experienced what makes their city great and then luckily wrote it down for us at Insider Guides. A special thank you to Mateus Nolasco. For all business enquiries: James Martin - james@insiderguides.com.au For all production enquiries: Samuel Trezise - sam@insiderguides.com.au www.insiderguides.com.au

The opinions expressed within are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of Insider Publishing Pty. Ltd. or City of Sydney. No part of this guide may be reproduced in full or in part without written permission of the publisher. All information provided in this guide is believed to be correct at the time of printing . The City of Sydney take no responsibility for incorrect detail provided by external parties

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t Studen res ail fa Ready<r> ADELAIDE $58

$188 URNE E MELBO > ADELAID $216 < S G Y IN PR SYDNE ALICE S 16 > < IDE WIN $2 ADELA <> DAR $434 RINGS P S E IC AL ERTH Y <> P SYDNE

from Passes 5 $49

The most relaxed way to see the vast Australian Outback is by train. • Stretch your legs in your spacious recliner seat • Chill out in the lounge* • Make friends, have a snack or dinner in the licensed cafe/bar • Freshen up with on-board shower facilities* • Travel city to city and see everything between at great value

Darwin

Alice Springs ULURU

Perth

Adelaide

Sydney

Melbourne

• Unlimited travel Rail Passes available from $495 Find us at facebook.com/GreatSouthernRail

facebook.com/GreatSouthernRail

Visit greatsouthernrail.com.au, call 13 21 47 or visit your local travel agent. Terms and conditions apply. All student ReadyRail fares are based on Red Service Day/Nighter Seat Service and are available to students holding recognised student cards (see website for details). For bookings made from 1 April 2013 to 31 March 2014. All fares are also available in opposite direction. All fares include a fuel price surcharge. Prices are subject to change without notice, available for instant purchase. Non refundable. *Shower and lounge facilities not available on The Overland, Melbourne <> Adelaide. An additional lounge access charge of $10 for 1-sector, $15 for 2-sector or $25 for 3-sector is required and payable onboard. Travel Agent License No.TTA164190. 2096-NSW

cool buildings. warm hospitality. Iglu offers the best experience in student accommodation in Sydney! Whether you want to live in a shared apartment with friends, or if a studio is more your style, there are plenty of options to choose from at Iglu! Be close to major universities, public transport, restaurants, cafes, shopping and more. Feel safe and secure with 24 hour onsite staff presence, CCTV and electronic card access. Offering air-conditioned, furnished apartments and great communal spaces, Iglu is: • cool contemporary designs • unbeatable locations • lifestyle student accommodation!

Iglu Central opening January 2013 Iglu Chatswood opens 2014