Welcome to NVC
We are absolutely thrilled that you have chosen to pursue your studies with Nova Vocational College (NVC) — now proudly offering campuses in both Melbourne and Brisbane. Whether you are joining us in the bustling, multicultural city of Melbourne or the sunny, relaxed atmosphere of Brisbane, your journey as an international student marks the beginning of an exciting and transformative chapter in your life.
At NVC, we are committed to supporting you every step of the way.
To help you settle in smoothly, we have prepared this comprehensive pre-departure guide. Inside, you’ll find essential steps, practical tips, and important information to prepare for your move and start your studies with confidence.
This guide covers everything from travel and visa arrangements, accommodation options, and what to pack, to arrival details, orientation and enrolment procedures, and the student support services available on both campuses. You will also discover helpful insights about living in Australia, including local culture, banking, transportation, and mobile setup.
Please take the time to read through this guide carefully and make the necessary arrangements before leaving home. Being well-prepared will help you settle in quickly and make the most of your experience at NVC — whether in Melbourne or Brisbane.
Safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you soon!
Booking Your Travel
Once your application is processed, deposit paid, and student visa issued, you can book your flight to Melbourne. Consider the following:
Arrival Timing
Arrive in Melbourne 2–4 weeks before your course starts to settle in and arrange accommodation.
COVID-19 Requirements
You must be fully vaccinated with a TGA-approved COVID-19 vaccine
Travel Insurance
Get travel insurance covering flight delays and a few days post-arrival, ask your travel agent for options.
Airport Arrival
Free airport pickup available from Melbourne (MEL) and Brisbane (BNE) — book in advance with NVC’s transfer service.
Packing for Australia
Melbourne:
Melbourne’s weather can be unpredictable, so it is best to be prepared for all seasons.
Winter (June–August): Average 14°C – bring warm jackets, jumpers, scarves, gloves, and waterproof shoes.
Summer (December–February): Average 25°C – pack lightweight clothes, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
All Seasons: Layered clothing (e.g., T-shirts, long sleeves, cardigans) and an umbrella for sudden rain.
Brisbane:
Brisbane enjoys a subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round.
Winter (June–August): Average 21°C – light sweaters or jackets are usually enough.
Summer (December–February): Average 29°C – pack breathable clothing, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
All Seasons: Comfortable clothes suitable for warm weather and occasional rain showers.
Formal Wear:
Bring at least one formal outfit for interviews, ceremonies, or special events.
NVC offer letter and eCoE
Driver’s license, birth certificate, and emergency contacts
Medical records, including a letter for ongoing treatment or prescriptions
Accommodation booking confirmation and any relevant references
Bring your bank card, banking details, and around AUD $100–$200 in cash for initial expenses.
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Laptop, mobile phone, and chargers
A universal power adapter (Australia uses Type I plugs, 230V)
Yes! Consider packing:
Spare glasses/contact lenses and toiletries
Sentimental items like photos
Any valuables (e.g., camera, jewellery, or sports gear like a bicycle – ensure these are insured)
Arranging Accommodation in Australia
You can start with temporary accommodation such as hostels, Airbnb, or student residences. These are ideal for your first few weeks while you search for long-term housing.
Student Housing: Purpose-built student accommodations with shared facilities.
Shared Rentals: Rent a room in a house or apartment with other students or locals.
Homestay: Live with a local family for a cultural experience.
Yes! NVC offers a free accommodation support service that connects you with trusted housing providers. Contact our Student Support Team for personalised assistance.
Expect to spend AUD $150–$400 per week, depending on the type and location of your accommodation. Inner-city areas are more expensive than the suburbs.
Melbourne:
Consider suburbs like Carlton, Fitzroy, and Footscray – they are popular with students and offer great access to public transport, cafes, and local amenities. Other nearby areas such as Brunswick, North Melbourne, and Docklands also provide convenient and affordable living options close to the city and campus.
Brisbane:
If you are studying at our Brisbane campus, great student-friendly areas include South Brisbane, West End, and Fortitude Valley, all offering easy access to public transport, shops, and entertainment. You might also explore Woolloongabba or Kangaroo Point for convenient and vibrant living near the river.
Biosecurity and Restricted Items
Australia has strict biosecurity laws to protect its environment. You cannot bring certain items into the country. Failure to declare items can result in fines or visa issues. When in doubt, declare!
Prohibited Items
Fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, seeds, plants, and soil.
Declare or Dispose
Declare any food, wooden items, or animal products at customs.
Medications
Bring a doctor’s prescription for medications and declare them at customs.
Health and Wellbeing
Your health is a priority. Take these steps to stay well:
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): Mandatory for student visa holders.Â
- Medical Conditions:Â Consult your doctor before departure for advice on managing conditions in Australia. Bring a referral letter and sufficient medication (with prescriptions).
- Mental Health: Moving abroad can be challenging. NVC offers free counselling services—contact our Wellbeing Team to learn more.
- Emergency Contacts: Save local emergency numbers (000 for police, fire, ambulance) and NVC’s 24/7 student support line: (03) 7068 8413
1
Orientation
Attend NVC’s orientation week to meet staff, explore campus, and learn about your course.
2
Bank Account
Open an Australian bank account with providers like Commonwealth Bank or ANZ. Bring your passport and eCoE.
3
Public Transport
Melbourne: Use a myki card for trams, trains, and buses. Download the PTV app for routes and timetables.
Brisbane: Use a go card for buses, trains, ferries, and trams. Download the Translink app for routes and fare details.
4
Mobile Phone
Get a local SIM card from providers like Telstra, Optus, or Vodafone. Prepaid plans start at AUD $20/month.
Connect with Others: Join NVC’s student clubs or social events to make friends.Â
Getting Settled in Australia
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Take the first confident step toward your creative career and begin your journey with purpose.