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