Safety
Australia is regularly rated as having some of the safest and most liveable cities in the world. It is a diverse and multicultural country which is welcoming towards international students and migrants, and celebrates the various cultures from which they come. However, as with many other countries around the world, Australia is not immune from crime. There are certain methods that you can use in order to avoid being placed in vulnerable situations tactics that can not only be used in Australia, but around the world.
One of the first things to remember is that you should not carry large amounts of money with you. While sometimes this may be necessary (for example, if you're going to the bank, or need to get currency converted), you can reduce your risk by hiding your valuables, and only making these sorts of transactions during the day. Take extra care when travelling in the evening, stay in well-lit areas, and, wherever possible, always try to walk with a friend.
Every institution takes some safety measures, and many campuses have their own on-site security but, ultimately, your personal safety is up to you.
Here are some tips to ensure your safety whenever you're travelling off or on campus:
- know the above emergency number for the emergency services (Ambulance, Fire Brigade and Police) in Australia, and the emergency and non-emergency numbers for the campus security office
- know where the emergency phones are located on campus
- attend any seminars on crime prevention that your institution offers
- use campus patrol or evening escort programs, which accompany students from one campus location to another
- always let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return, or walk with a friend when possible
- stay in well-lit areas at night and avoid short cuts through secluded areas, such as alleys or parks
- always keep your doors locked in the car and at home, and place valuables under the seat or in the boot of your car
- if you take public transport at night, try to sit close to the bus driver, or in the first carriage of the train.
Australia is a fantastic place to live, work and study, and providing that you take all of the necessary basic precautions, we are sure that your experience here will be extremely fun and fulfilling!
