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Your Guide to Celebrate Easter in Australia - Featured

Your Guide to Celebrate Easter in Australia

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With a Christian population of over 43.9% in Australia, Easter is a very popular and public holiday period filled with a festive atmosphere. 

The Easter season is also generally enjoyed by people of various faiths, beliefs and cultures in Australia as it connotes a time for family, community and festivity. 

So in this article, we are going to give you a guide to celebrate Easter in Australia.

What is Easter?

Easter is a world-wide yearly observed holiday and festive season that celebrates religious and cultural significance, which is the day of the resurrection of Jesus Christ after crucifixion. 

Easter usually starts and ends with a series of events through the holy week such as Palm Sunday, Holy Wednesday, Maundy Thursday and Good Friday leading up to Easter Saturday. 

Who celebrates Easter?

Easter is rooted in Christianity and prominently celebrated by Christians all over the world, including Australia, but has also become a widely celebrated season by many other religions across board. 

Why is it celebrated? (History and Significance)

The historical significance of Easter stems from the resurrection of Jesus Christ three days after his death by crucifixion. 

As per Christian faith, it is recorded that Jesus died for the sins of the world, conquered death, resurrected and redeemed the whole world from sin. 

This act has been a major foundation of the Christian faith which signifies God’s plan to redeem the world and offer believers the promise of eternal life. 

Easter serves as a reminder of this message of hope and transformation in honour of what Jesus did for the world.

How is Easter celebrated in Australia?

Easter in Australia is a time of festivity, celebration and also a solemn reflection in honour of the season. 

Many Australians attend church services through the holy week up until Easter Sunday which marks the resurrection of Jesus. 

Aside from the church gatherings, there are also various other festivals and cultural events that take place during the easter season like the Sydney Easter Royal Show, National Folk Festival, the Australian Gospel Festival, Byron Bay Blues and Roots Festival and many more. 

Some families during this period also spend time outdoors for picnics at the park, camping, pitching tents or going to the beach. These occasions mostly always consist of a wide variety of amazing food.

Another way Aussies enjoy the Easter season is to celebrate Easter Bilby. 

In contrast to the Easter bunny known worldwide, the bilby is a small endangered species in Australia celebrated instead as the easter icon because the Easter bunny is believed to be a bad omen, especially by farmers who experience rabbit infestations.

However, the Easter bunny is still a popular icon among Australian families and many families do Easter egg hunting activities with kids. 

When is Easter in 2024?

Easter Sunday for 2024 falls on the 31st of March, preceded by Good Friday which is on the 29th of March, after which is Easter Monday on the 1st of April. These dates are the ending days of the holy week for the season.  

Here is a quick guide to Easter in 2024:

  • Good Friday – 29th March
  • Easter Saturday – 30th March
  • Easter Sunday – 31st March
  • Easter Monday – 1st April

What’s open on Easter in Australia?

Most of the supermarkets (Woolworths, Coles, Aldi) and liquor stores will be closed on Good Friday.

However, they remain open for the rest of the Easter weekend with changed trading hours. Please refer to your local supermarket and liquor store trading hours for more details.

There are varying restrictions on selling alcohol over Easter weekend in most Australian states and territories. Most states have restrictions on selling alcohol on Good Friday. However, they might vary on Easter Sunday. 

Some IGA’s (Supermarket) are expected to remain open on Good Friday.

Kmart, Bunnings, Big W and other major retailers & shopping centers remain closed on Good Friday and will reopen for the rest of the Easter weekend except some stores might be closed on Easter Sunday. 

7-Eleven stores and most major petrol stations like Shell, BP, Ampol, EG will remain open every day during the Easter long weekend. 

Fast food restaurants like McDonald’s, Hungry Jacks, KFC, Guzman y Gomez are likely to remain open over the  Easter weekend. Check trading hours for your local restaurant. 

Australia Post usually remains closed on national public holidays, so it is expected they will remain closed during Easter long weekend.

Cinemas are usually open on Easter weekend, including Good Friday and Easter Sunday. 

It is advisable to call or check online the trading hours of your local businesses before a visit during the holiday season to avoid disappointment.  

List of Easter Events Around Australia 

The season of Easter goes far beyond chocolate eggs and bunnies; it’s a time of family, fellowship, community and celebration in diverse ways across the country. 

Here are some popular Easter events around Australia:

New South Wales

1. Fairfield Easter Fair

📍 Location: 443 Smithfield Road, Prairiewood, New South Wales

☎️ Phone number: +61 2 9138 0670

🔴 Website: https://fairfieldeasterfair.com/ 

🎟️ Payment: From $10

2. Sydney Royal Easter Show

📍 1 Showground Rd Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127

☎️ Phone number: +61 02 9704 10002

🔴 Website: https://www.eastershow.com.au/ 

🎟️ Payment: From $33

Sydney is packed with a lot of events for the Easter season bringing exciting fun activities to the people, and the Sydney Royal Easter Show and Fairfield Easter Fair are two amazing events  for the Easter holiday period. Both events offer amazing park activities, and entertainment like rides, food trucks, firework shows and many more. The Fairfield Easter fair runs from the 28th March to 2 April and the Sydney Royal Easter Show runs from 22 March to 2 April. 

Victoria

3. Bendigo Easter Festival

📍 Location: Rosalind Park and surrounding areas

☎️ Phone number: 1300 002 642

🔴 Website: https://www.bendigoeasterfestival.org.au/ 

🎟️ Payment: Free

A popular Easter event that celebrates the vibrant art and culture scene of Bendigo, Victoria. You get to watch a range of performances, workshops, exhibitions as it attracts both local and foreign tourists alike. It will be held from  March 29 to April 1. 

4. Easter at Queen Victoria Market

📍 Location: Queen St, Melbourne VIC 3000

☎️ Phone number: (03) 9320 5822

🔴 Website: https://qvm.com.au/easter/whats-on-easter/ 

🎟️ Payment: Free

Queen Victoria Market is one of the most popular places to visit during Easter. Lot of people do their Easter shopping and there are many activities for family and kids with Easter bunny visits, Easter Tea Party and Kids Passport that will keep your family busy during Easter weekend. 

Queensland

5. Easter at Victoria Park

📍 Location: Victoria Park, Brisbane, QLD 4000

🔴 Website: https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/whats-on-and-events/event/brisbanes-biggest-easter-weekend-at-victoria-park-172766089 

🎟️ Payment: Free

From 29th March to April 1, get ready to immerse yourself in this family fun-filled adventure at Victoria Park. There will be a range of activities from crafts, meeting bunny, outdoor cinema and more. 

Western Australia

6. Fremantle International Street Arts Festival

📍 Location: Various locations, Fremantle, WA 6160

☎️ Phone number: +61 (8) 9432 9999

🔴 Website: https://www.streetartsfestival.com.au/

🎟️ Payment: Free

The Fremantle International Streets Arts Festival is a global awe, an event that turns the streets of Fremantle into a stage of varieties of theater. A series of performances from musicians, dancers, artists, and performers will fill the streets with so much colour and bubble over the Easter period from the 29th of March till the 1st of April.

South Australia 

7. Farmers’ Market Easter Fun

📍 Location: Showgrounds, Adelaide, South Australia

🔴 Website: https://adelaidefarmersmarket.com.au/comingeventsactivities/ 

🎟️ Payment: Free

Take part in a fun Easter trail from 8:30 am to 11:30 am on March 31st at Adelaide Showground Farmers’ Market. Enjoy face painting, fresh food and a visit from Easter bunny. A truly fun-filled event for all.

Australian Capital Territory

8. National Folk Festival

📍 Location: EPIC Showgrounds, Canberra, ACT 

🔴 Website: https://www.folkfestival.org.au/ 

🎟️ Payment: Payment Required

The National Folk Festival is happening from March 28th to April 1 during the Easter weekend. You can experience a wide range of traditional music, dance, crafts, and food. It’s a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of folk culture.

Tasmania

9. AMAZE Great Golden Easter Egg Hunt

📍 Location: 13 Bridge Street Richmond Tasmania

🔴 Website: https://www.onlytasmania.com.au/the-amaze-great-golden-easter-egg-hunt 

🎟️ Payment: $20

Annual Easter egg hunt is back again at AMAZE Richmond. There are fun and entertaining activities for kids and accompanying adults like Easter egg hunt, Easter bunny visit and more.

Northern Territory

10. Easter Eggstravaganza

📍 Location: 7 Kitchener Drive, Darwin, Northern Territory.

🔴  Website: https://allevents.in/darwin/easter-eggstravaganza/

🎟️ Payment: Free

In the city of Darwin, the Easter Eggstravaganza event happens at the waterfront where there are lots of exciting activities for the festive atmosphere like the sack races, bunny bowling, Easter egg scavenger hunt, egg and spoon races and more.

Conclusion

As much as the Easter season is a time of sober reflection, it also unfolds as a significant time observed by many for community and family. 

A period of festivity, celebration and an array of exciting activities. So whether you’re a chocolate lover, sweet tooth or an outdoor person, the easter period has just the best offerings for you.



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12 On Campus Jobs in Australia for International Students

12 On Campus Jobs in Australia for International Students

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Many international students are usually unaware about on-campus job roles in Australia as they think jobs are only available outside campus.

But that can’t be further away from the truth.

So in this article, we’ll give you a detailed guide regarding on campus jobs in Australia for international students.

Let’s get right into the topic.

What are On campus Jobs?

On campus jobs are employment opportunities that are available within the university or college premises.

It means you will be working in the campus of your university or college itself. 

You do not need to go outside to work for these job roles, most of the time. 

And most of these job roles are usually casual or part time in nature. So these jobs suit international students perfectly, due to their work hour visa restrictions. 

Benefits for Doing On Campus Jobs

Now, let’s discuss some of the benefits for doing these on campus job roles. 

Flexibility: University is hiring knowing that you are a student. So, you can have flexibility in work usually as per your study schedule. It is a great advantage for you as a student, as you can work part time, and also study as well.

Student Priority: For on campus job roles, the priority is given to the students. Especially to those who have a good academic standings.

Travel time: You can save heaps of time by working on campus, rather than traveling outside to other job roles. And if you live nearby your university, it’s even better. 

Good pay rates: Usually universities offer good pay rates and good working conditions to their employees including students. 

Campus fun: As you will be working on campus, you will not be missing out on the campus fun. As there are many activities, events happen on campus during the academic year.

Building connections: Working on campus, means you could be working with university lecturers, university staff or some other people who might have some job roles outside university as well. It can present a great opportunity for students to build their network with these professionals, which could help you to get better jobs in the future.

Basic requirements to get on campus jobs

Let’s look at some of the common requirements to get these jobs:

Students Status: As mentioned earlier, most of these job roles are either casual or part time. So, these job roles are usually suitable for students and universities & colleges look for students for these sort of roles. So, if you are going to apply for an on-campus job, you must be a student.

Good academic records: As many students from the university will be applying for these job roles, usually, students with good academic records are preferred for them. As sometimes, university lecturers or tutors can actually help you to get these job roles due to their say in the hiring process. So, ideally, having a good academic track record, and good relationship with your trainers and tutors will help. 

Communication skills: Most of these job roles will require you to have good communication skills. It is a must, as most of these job roles will be customer-facing, which means you will be likely dealing with other students, or maybe staff members.

Technical Knowledge: Some job roles may require you to have some technical knowledge or skill set. In those sort of job roles, you will need to have those skills and knowledge in order to perform those jobs better. 

Work experience: While, depending upon the job roles, some jobs may require you to have some previous work experience, while others may not. So, it is a good idea to look at the job description itself, to see if they require any previous work experience.

Certifications and Licenses: Some job roles, especially if you’re going to work in hospitality, or maybe in some IT support services may require you to have some certifications. As an example, if you are going to work in hospitality roles, you might be required to have RSA certificate. Again, depending upon other job roles, you may be required to have other certifications or licenses. 

Work rights: International students are required to follow the work limits when they are working and studying. So, during your study period, you can only work 48 hours per fortnight. So, you need to make sure that you abide by those work hours, and make sure that you have the right to work in Australia. 

Now, these were some of the basic requirements to apply for these job roles.

Best On Campus job opportunities for students

Let’s move to the most important topic now, which is what are the different types of On-campus jobs that are available for students in Australia. 

  1. Tutors or teaching assistants 📚

Students who usually do well in their studies in the university or college, could work as a tutor or teaching assistant.

As a tutor or teaching assistant, you help the lecturers or tutors in either conducting classes or academically supporting other students, or just providing a helping hand to the teachers. 

This role is definitely suitable for students who like teaching or supporting others and, especially if you have a specific interest in certain subjects.

And obviously, if you have a good academic record that helps to get a job as a tutor or teaching assistant.

  1. Student support assistant 🤝

As the name suggests, it will be about supporting other students, especially the ones who are just starting their university in Australia. 

This support could be related to orientation programs, helping organising some events for students, or just addressing some of the student concerns.

For example, it could be related to finding their lecture room, or tutorial rooms, or their general queries. 

  1. Student ambassadors 🌐

Some universities may have a student ambassador program.

As a student ambassador, you will be responsible for representing your university at different events. It could be at the orientation of the university itself, or could be some marketing events that you may need to attend in the university or outside university. 

And these events could be online as well. Most likely, you will be speaking to prospective students who are interested in studying at your university. 

  1. Library assistants 📚

Some universities hire students to work as library assistants helping their librarians. 

Your job role as a library assistant could include shelving books, assisting other students in finding books, and just managing the general operations of the library, and helping your librarian when needed.

  1. IT assistants 💻

If you have some technical skills in IT (Information Technology) you could provide IT support to the staff, or to the students.

This is one of those technical job roles that may require you to have some certification or previous work experience. 

But the main job role is providing help to the students or staff who may be unable to access the university portals, having difficulty in accessing the Wi-Fi, printers, or some other technical issue related to it. 

  1. Research assistants 🔍

Many universities actually look for research assistants during the academic year. 

Basic job role as a research assistant includes helping the faculty members for their research projects. It could be collecting data, collecting, some surveys, or some other ADOC tasks. 

  1. Administration assistants (Admin assistants) 🗃️

Many universities and colleges look for administration assistants who can help them with some administration tasks, like data entry, answering customer queries, or organising files. 

And these sort of job roles are perfect for students as it helps them to get a foot in the door.

  1. Marketing assistants 📢

This has been becoming one of the most popular job roles.

As a marketing assistant, you could be helping the marketing manager or marketing team with content creation, social media management, and some other promotional activities or events. 

  1. Fitness or sports instructors 🏋️

If your university campus has facilities like gyms or some other recreational facilities, like sports facilities, then you could be hired for some of these job roles.

If hired in these roles, you could be responsible for providing instructions when people are using gym facilities or equipment or some other sports facility in your campus. 

  1. Event staff 🎉

During the academic year, universities in Australia organise many events, conferences and orientation programs. So, as a student, you may have an opportunity to work in these events.

It could be assisting the staff members with logistics, some sort of registration or coordination of the event. 

As mentioned earlier, many events happen during the university year, so there could be multiple opportunities that will come along in these roles.

  1. Hospitality staff 🍽️

Some universities have their own cafes, food outlets, bars and restaurants within the campus premises.

Usually there are many job roles like barista, kitchen hands, a waiter or waitress, cooks, bartenders or just general cleaning staff available in this sort of hospitality setting. 

Just keep in mind some jobs might actually require you to have a food handling or RSA certificate.

  1. Retail assistant 🛍️

Some universities in Australia have retail stores like fashion, souvenirs, technology related, or some other shops in the campus itself. 

And obviously, you can look up job opportunities in these retail stores. 

As a retail assistant, you could be responsible for answering the customer queries, providing customer service, sales, and any other assistance that your customer may require.

And most of these customers are usually students themselves, or could be the staff members.

How to apply for on campus job for students?

One of the important questions will be on students mind is where to find these job roles and how to apply for them?

A very good question indeed. 

Answer is straightforward: you will find most of these job roles on your university website itself.

Sometimes they may have a specific portal or a specific web page for on campus jobs, where you can go and look for these job opportunities and apply for them.

Most of these job opportunities come along at the start of a new academic year, or a start of a new term. So, our suggestion would be to look up for these opportunities, as soon as possible, and try to apply for them as there is usually fierce competition for these job roles.

Another quick tip to get these jobs will be to build a good relationship with your lecturers and tutors. They can have a say in some of these job roles and they may recommend you as a potential candidate for some of these jobs.

So ideally start building a relationship with the training staff from the beginning of your university studies.

One important thing to keep in mind is that availability of these job roles will vary depending upon your university. 

So, check whether these job opportunities are available with your university wbesite or the support services of your university.

These were-some of the type of On campus jobs that you could look up when you are coming here in Australia. 

We wish you all the best with your job application.



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Your Guide to Celebrate Ramadan in Australia

Your Guide to Celebrate Ramadan and Eid in Australia

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Ramadan is a very popular Islamic festival celebrated by millions of people all over the world, even in Australia. It is a sacred month filled with reflection, spirituality and community. 

There are several cultural and religious diversities in Australia, including close to a million Muslims, which is why this celebration is a very important one in the country.

There are several activities and religious practices that take place during the Ramadan month and celebrations during Eid ul Fitr. 

So, let’s give you a quick guide to celebrate Ramadan and Eid in Australia.

What is Ramadan and Eid ul Fitr?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar, observed by Muslims all round the world as a month of fasting, prayer, worship, service, community and reflection. 

During Ramadan, Muslims engage in a daily fast without any food and drink from dawn until sunset. 

This act of fasting not only drives a physical discipline but is also a means of spiritual purification, inward reflection, and empathy for the less privileged. 

After a month-long fasting and sacrifice of Ramadan, the ‘Eid ul Fitr’ is celebrated. It is usually a 1 to 3 days celebrations.

Eid is an arabic word which means feast or festival.

Who celebrates Ramadan and Eid?

Ramadan and Eid is celebrated all over the world by Muslims. 

All individuals from different cultures, traditions and countries who are Muslim celebrate the month of Ramadan and observe the requirements during the period. 

Even non-muslims also value the Ramadan month and celebrate what it stands for. People participate by giving to Muslim communities, practicing self-reflection, listening to teachings and giving to the less privileged.

Why is it Celebrated?

Ramadan is a very deep part of the Islamic tradition. It symbolises a time in history, the 7th century, when the Quran was sent down to Prophet Muhammad from heaven to be revealed to men and women as a guide and means of salvation. 

The celebration period focuses on spiritual meditation, reflection, fasting, seeking forgiveness, and strengthening connection with God. 

Ramadan is also celebrated to boost community bonding through family time and community gatherings during iftar. It is the time when food is shared to break the fast and prayers are done collectively. 

Ramadan reminds people to be empathetic and compassionate by being kind and generous to others.

How is Ramadan and Eid Celebrated in Australia?

Australia, a center of cultural diversity, embraces Ramadan with open arms. The celebration period is highly recognised in schools, workplaces, homes and communities. 

The Ramadan month is often characterised by different activities that reflect the essence and key parts of the period. Usually the Muslim communities gather during Iftar which is the evening meal to break the fast. 

There is often an array of diverse foods for everyone to partake of. There are also night prayer times at the mosques during the month called Tarawih. These prayers are held after the iftar meal, creating a sense of unity. 

Muslims also carry out charitable activities to celebrate during this period such as food drives, donations and initiatives to support the less privileged.

Eid ul Fitr marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan. In Australia, many events are organised by the local muslim communities and mosques to celebrate Eid ul Fitr.

Cleaning house, preparing sweet dishes, buying new clothes, gifts are common activities to celebrate Eid.

Families and friends come together to enjoy the festival in community spirits.

When is Ramadan and Eid in 2024?

In 2024, Ramadan will begin on Monday, March 11th and end on Tuesday, April 9th. It’s a month-long journey of fasting from dawn to sunset. 

And the Eid ul Fitr will be celebrated on 10th April 2024.

The Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, as a result the dates for Ramadan and Eid ul Fitr can vary. 

List of Ramadan and Eid Events around Australia 

1. New South Wales (NSW): 

Event Name: Ramadan Nights Lakemba (Sydney)

  • Date: 9 March – 8 April (every Thursday to Sunday)
  • Location: Lakemba
  • Timing: 6 pm – 3 am
  • Details: A market showcasing diverse cuisines, crafts, and entertainment to mark the festive season.
  • More details here

Event Name: Sydney Eid Festival

  • Date: 14 April
  • Location: Harvey Lowe Pavilion, Newcastle
  • NSW
  • Time: 4pm – 9pm
  • More details: PCIA, Glow Media

Event Name: Multicultural Eid Fair And Festival (MEFF)

  • Date: 28  April
  • Location: Fairfield Showground, Smithfield Rd, Pairiewood NSW
  • Time: 10am – 9pm
  • More details here

2. Victoria (VIC): 

Event Name: SalamFest x Inspiring Connections Street Iftar

  • Date: 17th March 
  • Location: Queen Victoria Market
  • Timing: 7.30 pm
  • More details here

Event Name: Eid Festival & Celebration

  • Date: 10 April
  • Location: 167- 177 Faulkner Road, Mt Cotrel
  • Time: 9am – 12:30pm
  • More details here

Event Name: EID@QVM

  • Date: 13 and 14 April
  • Location: Queen Victoria Market
  • Time: 10am – 4pm
  • More details here

3. Queensland (QLD): 

Event Name: Convert Iftar

  • Date: 16th March 
  • Location: Kuraby Mosque
  • Timing: 4.30 pm – 6 pm
  • More details here

Event Name: APNA & SBS Eid Fest and Diversity Award 2024

  • Date: 12 April
  • Location: Logan West Community Centre, Hillcrest, QLD 4118
  • Time: 6:30pm
  • More details here
  • 4. Western Australia (WA): 

Event Name: Ramadan Market

  • Date: 16th March 
  • Location: Ozone Reserve, Perth
  • Timing: 5.00 pm 
  • More details here
  • Event Name: Eid Milan Party
  • Date: 12 April
  • Location: Saffron Restaurant & Banquet, 230 Cambridge Street, Wembly, Perth 
  • Time: 7pm
  • More details here

5. South Australia (SA): 

Event Name: Iftar Dinner

  • Date: 17th March 
  • Location: Mahmood Mosque, Beverely
  • Timing: 6.15 pm – 8 pm
  • More details here

Event Name: Eid UI Fitr Grand Dinner

  • Date: 20 April
  • Location: Port Pirie Sports Precinct, Port Pirie, SA 5540
  • Time: 6pm – 10pm
  • More details: Port Pirie Multicultural Community

Event Name: MACSA Eid Celebration Lunch for New & Migrants & Established Australians

  • Date: 28  April
  • Location: Woodville Town Hall, Woodville, SA 5011
  • Time: 1pm
  • More details here

6. Australian Capital Territory (ACT): 

Event Name: Community Iftar at UnitingCare Kippax

  • Date: 6th April
  • Location: UnitingCare Kippax
  • Timing: 6.15 pm – 8 pm
  • More details here

7. Tasmania (TAS): 

Event Name: Multi Faith Iftar Dinner

  • Date: 17th March 
  • Location: Mahmood Mosque, Beverely
  • Timing: 7 pm
  • More details here

We will update the event list for Eid celebrations closer to the date.



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Top STEM Courses for Female International Students in Australia

Top STEM Courses for Female International Students in Australia

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Women in STEM is one of the most talked about topics in recent history. 

Rightly so, as there is underrepresentation of women in the STEM field.    

So in this article, we are looking for Top STEM courses in Australia that female international students need to know about.

Let’s get started!

What is STEM? 

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

It refers to a multidisciplinary approach to education and career paths involving these fields.

But these four fields of STEM comprise many other subfields that students can have a career in.

Notably, some universities also refer to STEM as STEMM (including Medicine in STEM).

Why STEM in Australia?

In this ever-changing world, technology is dictating the future of work.

Many new work opportunities are emerging, while some jobs are disappearing in front of our eyes.  

Education in STEM is not just critical but essential for preparing ourselves for the jobs of the future.

In Australia, the gap between the skills employers need and knowledge generated in the education sector is widening.

So, STEM course graduates are considered to be in high demand in Australia.

STEM careers are well-paid and highly valued in today’s job market.

Why Women in STEM?

According to the Department of Industry, Science and Resources, women make up only 37% of students studying STEM courses in Australian universities.

And the numbers are worse when it comes to STEM-qualified employment with women representing 15% of these jobs. 

In 2022, there was 17% or $27,012 of pay gap between men and women in STEM industries.

Apart from these numbers, more women are needed in STEM careers as they bring a different perspective in the industry. 

Increase of women in STEM can ultimately benefit the industry as a whole. 

List of popular STEM courses in Australia

There are plenty of options in terms of courses you can study in STEM areas, but we have handpicked some of the most popular ones.  

You can undertake both or either undergraduate or postgraduate courses in these fields:

  • Information Technology
  • Biomedicine
  • Civil Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Aerospace Engineering
  • Software Engineering
  • Agriculture Engineering
  • Architecture
  • Physics
  • Biochemistry
  • Food Science
  • Medicine

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list and there are many other courses you can do in the STEM fields.

Top STEM universities in Australia

Here is a list of Top STEM universities in Australia that you might consider studying in:

  • Australian National University (ANU): ANU is known for its excellence in research and STEM disciplines.
  • The University of Melbourne: A global leader with a strong emphasis on innovation and technology.
  • The University of Sydney: The University of Sydney offers cutting-edge research facilities and a diverse range of STEM courses.
  • The University of Queensland (UQ): UQ is known for its contributions to science, research and technology.
  • Monash University: Monash University is renowned for STEM programs and research output.

Requirements to study STEM courses in Australia as an international student

Here are some of the basic requirements to study STEM courses in Australia:

  • Passport and Student visa: You will need a passport and an Australian student visa in order to study in Australia as an international student.
  • Academic Qualification: To get an admission into STEM courses, you will need to have a high school certificate with good grades in the relevant subjects to get into an undergraduate program. If you want to get into a postgraduate course, then you will need to have a Bachelor’s degree in the relevant field.
  • English Proficiency tests: Students from non-English speaking countries are required to undertake an English Proficiency test like IELTS, PTE or others. With minimum overall scores of 6.0 to 6.5 IELTS equivalent depending on the university.
  • Entrance Tests: Some universities in Australia may require entrance tests as part of their admission requirements. While some offer scholarships to students with higher scores in these entrance tests. Common entrance tests into STEM courses include GRE, GMAT (for postgraduate courses) and SAT or ACT (for undergraduate programs).

We hope you find this information related to STEM courses for female international students in Australia useful. 



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Australian Universities Start Dates Revealed - Featured

Australian Universities Start Dates 2024 Revealed

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Start of the new calendar year means start of new academic year in Australia.

And many students wander when does the university actually starts?

So in this article, we are going to look at Australian Universities Start Dates for the year 2024.

Before we get started though, a quick disclaimer: While all efforts has been made to check the accuracy of these dates, there is a possibility that there might some inaccuracies. If you do find any, please report it to us at [email protected]

We also suggest that you check with respective university for exact dates.

Now, that done, let’s get back to the topic.

Australian University Calendar

Australian universities typically offer semester or trimester system for study periods.

While most of the universities offer only 2 semester teaching in a calendar year in Australia, some also offer 3.

Typically, these are divided into these main intakes:

  • February/March Intake (Autumn intake)
  • July/August Intake (Winter intake)
  • October/November Intake (Summer intake)

February and July intakes are the most common intakes. While the November intake, also known as summer semester is only offered by fewer universities.

February is the first and the largest intake of the year.

This is when most of the international students and domestic students start their university year.

July is second largest intake with many international students starting their university during this time.

November intake is relatively the least popular and comparing to other intakes, only fewer students enrol into this semester.

For each intake, here are the general timelines:

February intake

StartsMid term breakExamEnds
February /MarchAprilMay/JuneJune

July intake

StartsMid term breakExamEnds
July/AugustSeptemberNovemberNovember

November intake

StartsMid term breakExamEnds
October/NovemberDecemberJanuaryJanuary

If you are curious to know which intake is the best or worst to study in Australia, then don’t worry, we have complete guide on that topic. Check the guide here.

Australian Universities Start Dates

Here is a list of Australian universities and their respective start dates for each semester for the year 2024:

State/TerritoryUniversitySemester 1 StartSemester 2 StartSemester 3 Start
NATIONALAustralian Catholic University26/02/202429/07/2024N/A
The University of Notre Dame Australia19/02/202422/07/2024N/A
ACTThe Australian National University19/02/202422/07/2024N/A
University of Canberra05/02/202429/07/2024N/A
NSWCharles Sturt University26/02/202408/07/202411/08/2024
Macquarie University19/02/202422/07/202409/12/2024
Southern Cross University04/03/202401/07/202428/10/2024
The University of Newcastle26/02/202422/07/2024N/A
The University of New England26/02/202424/06/202421/10/2024
The University of Sydney19/02/202429/07/2024N/A
University of Technology Sydney19/02/202405/08/2024N/A
University of Wollongong05/02/202413/05/2024N/A
UNSW Sydney12/02/202427/06/2024N/A
Western Sydney University04/03/202401/07/202428/10/2024
NTCharles Darwin University04/03/202422/07/202418/11/024
QLDBond University*15/01/202413/05/202409/09/2024
CQUniversity04/03/202408/07/202404/11/2024
Griffith University04/03/202415/07/202404/11/2024
James Cook University29/01/202408/07/202416/09/2024
Queensland University of Technology26/02/202422/07/202418/11/2024
The University of Queensland19/02/202422/07/202425/11/2024
University of Southern Queensland19/02/202408/07/202411/11/2024
University of Southern Queensland*22/01/202413/05/202402/09/2024
University of the Sunshine Coast26/02/202422/07/202425/11/2024
University of the Sunshine Coast*26/02/202422/07/202404/11/2024
SAFlinders University26/02/202422/07/2024N/A
The University of Adelaide26/02/202429/07/2024N/A
The University of Adelaide*29/01/202420/05/202402/09/2024
University of South Australia26/02/202422/07/2024N/A
University of South Australia*08/01/202401/04/202424/06/2024
TASUniversity of Tasmania26/02/202422/07/2024N/A
VICDeakin University04/03/202408/07/202404/11/2024
Federation University Australia04/03/202422/07/202418/11/2024
La Trobe University04/03/202429/07/2024N/A
La Trobe University*04/03/202404/03/202422/04/2024
Monash University26/02/202422/07/2024N/A
RMIT University04/03/202422/07/2024N/A
Swinburne University of Technology26/02/202429/07/2024N/A
The University of Melbourne26/02/202422/07/2024N/A
Victoria University19/02/202429/07/202404/11/2024
WACurtin University26/02/202422/07/202425/11/2024
Edith Cowan University19/02/202422/07/2024N/A
Murdoch University26/02/202429/07/2024N/A
Murdoch University*15/01/202406/05/202426/08/2024
The University of Western Australia26/02/202422/07/2024N/A

* means Trimester system

Source: Universities Australia

Here are some more frequently asked questions regarding Australian Academic Calendar

What month do universities start in Australia?

Australian universities typically start in February/March for the new academic year.

What month does university end in Australia?

The last semester of the year for many universities ends in November.

What is Summer Semester in Australia?

A study period typically offered during November to January is known as Summer semester in Australian university calendar.

How many days a week do you go to university in Australia?

It depends on the university and the course but you can expect to be at the university for 2 to 3 days in a week.

Can you start university in the semester 2?

Yes, you can start university as an international student from semester 2 (July intake) in Australia.



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How to buy a car in australia - Featured

Comprehensive guide: How to buy a car in Australia

,

Australia has a good public transportation system.

But because the country is so huge and spread out, it can sometimes be tricky to travel from one place to another.

Apart from that, there are some jobs or gig work that require a car.

As a result, many international students in Australia opt to buy their own cars.

If you are thinking of buying a car in Australia, this guide on how to buy a car in Australia will give you all the necessary information.

Let’s go!

Why Buy a Car in Australia as a Student?

 As a student, buying a car can be a smart move for several reasons:

  1. Getting around daily: Having a car makes it easier to go to school, sports, or fun places whenever you want.
  1. No More Public Transport Stress: You won’t have to worry about train/tram/bus schedules anymore. 
  1. Adventures and Social Life: Australia has so many amazing places to visit. You can explore beaches, national parks, and mountains with your friends using your car.
  1. Job Opportunities: As a student, you might want to work part-time. Having a car means you can take jobs that are far away and not easy to reach by public transport. You could even work part-time with companies like Uber or DoorDash.
  1. Easy Shopping: Getting groceries and other things you need for your home is much easier with a car. You don’t have to carry heavy bags on the public transport.

Factors To Consider Before Buying A Car In Australia

Getting a car has its advantages as shown above, but there are some important factors to consider before buying one. Some of the factors include:

  • Purpose and Usage: Before you get a car, think about why you want one. Is it for going to school every day, having fun trips sometimes, or driving around Australia for adventures?
  • Fuel Costs: Fuel can cost a lot. So, it’s smart to pick a car that doesn’t use too much fuel and has a higher fuel efficiency. 
  • Insurance Costs: Having insurance for your car is a big deal. Different cars can have different insurance costs. So, it’s a good idea to check and find the best insurance for the type of car you want. The cost can depend on things like what kind of car it is, how old it is, and where you live.
  • Maintenance and Repairs: Some cars are easier to fix and maintain than others. It’s important to choose a car that doesn’t break down often and has parts that are easy to find. Different car brands have different reputations for being easy to maintain. 
  • Size and Features: Think about how big your car needs to be. If you want to work as a driver for a delivery company, your car needs to meet certain requirements. Also, consider how many people it can carry and some essential features like air conditioning and safety.

What Are the Costs Involved in Buying a Car in Australia?

Buying a car isn’t just about the price you pay upfront. 

There are other expenses you need to think about for the future and to keep the car running. 

Here are some of those costs:

  • Purchase Price: First, you have to pay for the car itself. You need to find one that fits your budget, and that means looking at different types of cars and their prices.
  • Registration and Transfer Fees: In Australia, when you get a car, you have to pay some fees to the government. These fees can be different depending on which state you live in. You will also need to factor in yearly registration fees as well. It’s a good idea to know about these fees, so you don’t get surprised by them later
  • Insurance Premiums: Insurance premiums are required to pay for your insurance policy. It’s important to have this protection in case something bad happens, like if your car gets damaged or stolen. The price you pay for insurance depends on things like what kind of coverage you want, how you’ve driven in the past, the type of car you have, and where you live. You should always do research on different insurance types and costs from different providers.
  • Depreciation and Taxes: Depreciation is how much your car loses value over time. It’s important because it affects how much money you can get if you sell your car later. Some cars lose value faster than others. Taxes can also depend on your car, like luxury cars can have higher tax costs.
  • Loan Interest: If you’re taking a loan to buy a car in Australia, you have to think about the interest you’ll have to pay back. How much interest you pay depends on the interest rate and how long it takes to repay the loan. Also, consider that international students may not be able to access loan options when getting a car. So you may have to find alternative funding arrangements. 
  • Maintenance and Repairs: Owning a car means you have to spend money to keep it running smoothly. This includes things like getting regular check-ups, changing the oil, and fixing any problems that come up. Different cars can have different costs for these things, so it’s a good idea to find out how much they might cost for the car you want. Want to know more about the service costs of a car in Australia? Check this article out. 

What Are The Most Affordable and Popular Cars in Australia?

Here is a list of affordable and popular cars in Australia:

  1. Toyota Corolla
  2. Mazda 2
  3. Hyundai i30
  4. Honda Civic
  5. Toyota Yaris
  6. Suzuki Swift
  7. Kia Cerato
  8. Mazda 3
  9. Toyota RAV4
  10.  Kia Rio

You can find used cars for some of these brands under $5000. But if you are looking for a newer used car, then you should be ready to spend around $10,000 or more.

Brand-new cars from these brands can start from $24,000 onwards. 

How Much Do You Need to Budget for Buying a Car in Australia?

Budgeting for a car in Australia can be a bit tricky because it depends on so many things. If you want a new car, it can cost a lot more than a used one. The type of car you choose also affects the price. 

On average, people in Australia spend around $40,916 for a new car. But if you go for a small car, it’s about $26,346, while sedans are around $45,728, and SUVs are about $40,453. So, you need to think about what kind of car you want and how much you’re willing to spend.

When budgeting for a car, you should think about two main types of costs:

1. Purchase Price: This is how much you’ll pay to buy the car. It’s important to research and find a car model that fits your budget. Make sure it’s something you can comfortably afford without straining your finances.

2. Additional Costs: These are the expenses that come after you buy the car. They include things like registration fees, insurance premiums, taxes, and ongoing maintenance costs. These additional costs are essential to consider because they add to the overall price of owning and operating the car.

So, when planning to buy a car, you should not only focus on the purchase price but also factor in these additional costs to ensure you have a clear and realistic budget.

Steps Involved In Buying a Car in Australia

Buying a car requires proper planning to ensure you get the best value for your money. Here are the steps involved in buying a car in Australia.

Step 1: Determine Your Car Needs

When you want to buy a car, it’s important to think about what you really need the car for. This will help you pick the right car for you.

For example, if you want a car for ride-sharing service like Uber or food delivery, consider getting a Toyota. Two good choices from Toyota are the Camry or Corolla. These cars are great because they are comfortable, use fuel efficiently, and are economical to maintain. So, they’re a good match for what you want!

But consider your personal needs and decide which car might suit your needs better.

Some questions to ask yourself are:

  • Budget for the Car
  • Short term or Long term Car
  • Fuel efficiency
  • Car features
  • Residence or Workplace or School Landscape
  • Personal Car or Family Car

Step 2: Do your Research

Once you know what kind of car you need, there might be a few different cars that could work for you. So, it’s time to do some research to find out more about these cars. Here are some things you should look into:

  • Dealerships vs Private Sellers 
  • Used vs New Car
  • Financing options 
  • Insurance costs
  • Taxes and other government fees
  • Availability of parts
  • Customer reviews 

Step 3: Find a Good Dealership or Look for Private Sellers

Now that you know which car you want to buy, it’s super important to find a good and trustworthy place to buy it from.

Buying from a trusted dealership reduces the risk of fraud or stolen cars, comes with a  warranty and the final price includes taxes or transfer fees. But it also means a higher purchase price.

These days, you can actually buy a car without leaving your home! You can do it online through trusted dealership websites. They’ll help you pick the car you want, and then they’ll deliver it right to your doorstep. 

Buying from a private seller usually means a cheaper price, but you need to consider taxes and roadworthy certification expenses. Some private sellers may provide you with a roadworthy certificate, but some may not. It’s best to ask the seller for a roadworthy certificate. This will give you peace of mind that the car is safe to drive. 

Here are some trusted websites for looking for cars in Australia:

Step 4: Inspection and Test Drive

After selecting the car of your choice, conduct an inspection and test drive to get the feel of the car. If the performance is satisfactory, you can move on to the next phase. Here are some things to look out for during vehicle inspection: 

  • Exterior and Interior Condition
  • Tires and Wheels
  • Undercarriage
  • Engine Compartment
  • Fluid Levels
  • Battery
  • Odometer Reading
  • Service History
  • Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
  • Suspension and Steering
  • Brakes
  • Safety Features
  • Ownership Documents
  • Roadworthy Certificate 

If you are unsure about inspecting the car, you can hire the service of specialised mechanics. It can cost you $200 to $300, depending on your location, but it is money well spent to understand any issues with the car.

You can always negotiate the price of the car with the seller.

Step 5: Get the Paperwork Ready

If you’re happy with how the car looks and drives, and it ticks the inspection box, then it’s time to start dealing with the paperwork. The paperwork process can vary depending on which state you’re in. It’s important to follow the rules and regulations of your location. 

Here are some of the documents you need for processing:

  • Proof of Identity and Address
  • Proof of Income and Financial Information (If applicable)
  • Insurance Documents
  • Roadworthy Certificate
  • Pre-approval Documents (If applicable)

Things to Be Mindful of When Buying a Car in Australia 

When you’re buying a car, there are some really important things to be careful about:

1. Vehicle History: Get a report that tells you about the car’s past. This can show if it’s been in any accidents or had problems before. It helps you make sure you’re not buying a car with hidden issues. Here is a useful website on how you can check the vehicle history for free.

2. Warranty: Look into what kind of warranty the seller or manufacturer offers. This is like a promise that they’ll fix any unexpected problems for a certain amount of time. Knowing the details of the warranty can save you trouble later on. 

3. Ownership Transfer: When you buy a car, you need to make sure all the necessary formalities are done right. This means filling out the right paperwork and following the rules for transferring ownership. It’s super important to make sure you officially own the car. You will get in touch with the local transport authority within 14 days of purchasing.

4. Roadworthy Certificate: Also known as a pink slip sometimes, it is important to get this certificate when buying a car in Australia. This certificate ensures the car meets the standard requirements to drive on public roads in Australia.  We suggest not buying a car without a roadworthy certificate.

How To Transfer A Car Ownership In Australia?

Transferring a car ownership in Australia is an important step when buying a car.

Each state has its own specific steps and rules regarding the transfer. To find out exactly what you need to do, you can go to your state or territory’s transportation website. They will have all the details and instructions you need to register your car properly. 

Make sure to visit the transport authority office within the required timeframes after the purchase of the car to avoid late fees or penalties.

Usually you will be required to have the following when transferring the ownership of the car in Australia: 

  • Vehicle
  • Proof of Purchase
  • Your driving licence
  • Roadworthy certificate
  • Transfer of Ownership form
  • Local government transfer fee

Here are the websites for each of the states transport authority to know more:



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