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Saturday, Jun 13, 2009
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Guidelines for Indians seeking admission in Australia

Sandeep Dikshit

Posted on MEA website, they contain several links to help them form a better idea of the conditions there

NEW DELHI: The government on Friday released guidelines for Indians seeking admissions in Australian educational institutions. It also reposed faith in Canberra doing all it can to stop the attacks on Indians.

Foreign Secretary Shiv Shanker Menon described the assaults as “terrible.” He was satisfied with the Australian government’s approach and felt it would “do everything” to stop them.

Asked whether the government would issue an advisory, Mr. Menon said it was a matter of judgment. “We have to look at the number of people involved. In some case we have issued advisories but in the case of Australia, it is a cooperative, helpful government, doing all in its power to stop it.”

The guidelines posted on the website of the Ministry of External Affairs contain several links to help them form a better idea of the conditions in Australia and what was expected from them in a different culture.

They ask students to be fully informed of all the actual costs involved. They must cross check and verify rules governing work, housing and other aspects of living in Australia, especially when it comes to financial matters. Students must make sure that the institutions of their choice had a good reputation, especially if they are private one.

Students must ensure that they have enough money to cover the living and education costs. The living cost per person (excluding tuition fees) is 1200 Australian dollars and “no matter what any one or your agent tells you, it is difficult to earn enough in Australia to meet all your expenses, including tuition fees,” caution the guidelines.

Aware that some of the attacks were non-racist in nature, students have been told that it is their duty to maintain and keep their accommodation clean. “Remember that you represent India in Australia. Your behaviour and actions should do the country proud.”

Students should also seek details from the university authorities about the security situation in and around their university and the place of stay as well as the local policing arrangements.

Meanwhile, Australia announced new measures on student safety. It includes the setting up of an international task force, a hotline and a fast tack review of its legislation for provision of education services to international students. The government has also written to each education provider emphasising their legal obligations and the role they play in ensuring a positive experience for international students.

Australian High Commissioner John McCarthy released the third edition of a guide to ensure Indian students have up-to-date information to help live and study in Australia. It will be provided to each new student who obtains a visa.

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