Australia's multicultural society is made up of people from over 210 different nationalities, so it is difficult to define what is 'typical' in Australian culture or social customs. Australia strives to be a democratic society: the aim is that people will be treated the same. Young people in Australia do not necessarily show others more respect because they're older. You should note that academic staff may ask you to address them by their first name.

Find out here about what it's really like to live in Australia.

Religion

Although Australia is officially a Christian country, in reality many different religions are practiced and celebrated in Australian society. See a list of local temples and mosques in Melbourne (PDF 16.7KB).

Australian culture and social customs

Your own customs can be maintained within the Australian community and most Australians will understand your reasons. For example, if your religion prohibits you from eating certain foods or drinking alcohol, you will be able to maintain these customs.

Some Australian customs and ideas may be new to you, such as dress codes, social greetings and social behavior. For detailed information on Australian customs, visit the websites below:

Living costs for single students

The living costs for single students table shows estimated average annual costs for a single student sharing rental accommodation, living in a one-bedroom flat, and living on campus (non-catered). Total figures are for 37 weeks of the academic year only. Please note that we have not included the cost of clothing or travel expenses for leisure purposes.

Services available in and around Melbourne

Melbourne is a vibrant, dynamic and multicultural city with a strong Indian presence. Below is a list of services and traders you may be interested in visiting while in Melbourne.

Living safely in Victoria and Australia

It’s important for new visitors to Australia to try to familiarise themselves with their new environment whether they be students, tourists or working visitors. This includes becoming familiar with local safety precautions, laws and rules like road rules, and how to find and use emergency services.

  • La Trobe and Safety: La Trobe University has published detailed safety tips and information designed for international students. Ensure you visit the Safety Website and read the important information on this page including campus security services available for Bundoora, Bendigo and Albury-Wodonga campuses
  • SAFETY Victoria: SAFETY Victoria is a state-government operated website that has very useful information relevant to newcomers to Victoria as well as current inhabitants. New international students may need to familiarise themselves with such things as bushfires- a common occurrence in Victoria each summer. For more information visit their website. 
  • Victoria Police: International students and their families visiting Australia for the first time might be unfamiliar with the role of the police force in Australian society, which may be different to the role of law enforcement services in your home country. New visitors should note that reporting a crime to the police or contacting the police for assistance or information will not influence immigration/residency status decisions, nor will it affect your enrolment at university. For more information visit the Victoria Police website. 
  • Indian Consulate - Guidelines for Indian Students wishing to student in Australia.