Arriving at the airport in a foreign country can be overwhelming. To better prepare yourself, make sure that you have read the information below about your arrival and how to get to your accommodation. If you get lost or confused upon arrival, don’t be afraid to ask the airport staff for help, as they will be happy to give assistance.
(i) If you have booked a transfer with us, in case of a service emergency, use the following details to contact us: If you have any flight changes, miss a connecting flight or need help meeting the transfer service, you should call the emergency number. Please be prepared to tell them your name, school name (English Path) and location. Students should only accept a transfer from a greeter with the official EP Brisbane signage.
Transfer service emergency number: +61 461 331 754 *Temp number (Mark Bailey)
(ii) Be aware of the general living costs (sample prices for items in this city)
Bottle of water: $3
Coffee: $2-6
Can of coke: $3
Meal out for two: $60
Takeaway pizza: $15
Sandwich: $10
Local bus ticket: $3.55
Local subway ticket: $3.55
Bike/Scooter rental: $10
Cinema ticket: $15
(iii) Understand the local customs
Women in Australia are equal to men and should always be treated fairly.
Australian people talk to strangers in public areas. This is a great way to practice English, but caution should be taken. You should not give out your address and telephone number or accept inappropriate invitations.
"Please" and "thank you" 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.
Australia is a culturally diverse nation where people of all ethnic backgrounds are treated equally.
Tipping in restaurants or for other services is rarely required in Australia but can be offered in high end restaurants or for outstanding service anywhere. If you choose to tip, it should be no more than $5. Fast food is not tipped, but you could offer a tip for exceptional service if food is delivered promptly or perhaps in bad weather.
(iv) Health and safety come first
Medical insurance: All students must have travel or medical insurance (Student Visa Holders) for the duration of their stay in Australia. You can either book medical insurance offered by English Path, or you can choose your own.
If you get sick: If you get sick while in Australia, you should visit a doctor. You can ask the Student Services team or your host family where the nearest doctor is. If you have a minor illness, you can ask staff at a local pharmacist for advice. Remember to bring any relevant insurance or medical documentation with you.
Protecting your belongings: We strongly recommend you take out insurance for your personal belongings, especially cameras, music players, mobile phones and laptops. Personal items cannot be covered by English Path homestay or residence insurance.
Prescription medication: Remember to bring enough of your prescribed medication with you, as Australian pharmacists will not dispense a foreign prescription. International customs agents may ask you questions about your medication upon your departure or arrival, so be sure to pack it carefully. Bring any important medical records (blood type, prescriptions, x-rays) that might be useful for medical care abroad, as well as contact information for your health care providers at home.
Staying safe at school: If you or another student has an accident or needs urgent medical attention, please come to reception where the First Aider is located.
Fire safety: If you discover a fire, press the fire alarm button on the nearest alarm. Leave the building immediately via the fire exit. Make sure you tell a member of EP staff exactly what happened so they can call 000. If you hear the fire alarm, leave the building immediately. Do not run. Use the lift or stop to collect your belongings. EP staff will guide you to the fire exit. Go to the assembly point. Follow any instructions given by a member of EP staff and do not go back into the building until you are told to do so by EP staff.
Personal safety and looking after valuables: If you discover a fire, press the fire alarm button on the nearest alarm. Leave the building immediately via the fire exit. Make sure you tell a member of EP staff exactly what happened so they can call 000. If you hear the fire alarm, leave the building immediately. Do not run, use the lift or stop to collect your belongings. EP staff will guide you to the fire exit. Go to the assembly point. Follow any instructions given by a member of EP staff and do not go back into the building until you are told to do so by EP staff.
(v) Medical costs
Medical costs are at the discretion of your local doctor or hospital. Minimum medical costs are as follows:
Consultation with a doctor: $75-100
Prescriptions at a chemist: $5-30 per item
Dental treatment: $150
Eye test or new glasses: $100
(vi) Laws
No one under the age of 18 in Queensland may buy or consume tobacco or alcohol, including beer and wine. It is against the law to buy tobacco or alcohol for someone you know who is under the age of 18.
Driving under the influence of alcohol is a very serious crime and police make regular random checks.
You will need international ID to enter bars, clubs or pubs (e.g. Passport, ID card, driver’s license).
Buying, selling and using drugs is illegal.
(vii) Student code of conduct
You must attend all classes. If you do not attend your classes, your representative will be informed. If you do not improve your attendance, you may be sent home. 85% attendance is needed to be able to receive a certificate of completion.
Be on time for all your lessons.
Always tell English Path if you are going to be absent from school for any reason and tell your host family if you are going away overnight.
If you commit a criminal offence or have to be severely disciplined, you will be sent home. We will also inform the immigration authorities.
Be respectful, polite and open to different cultures.
