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Business

9 STEPS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS TO START A BUSINESS IN AUSTRALIA

Have a business idea? A hobby that you’d like to turn into a job? Have a business overseas and want to start it in Australia?

If you answered yes to any of the questions above, then you must read this blog.

Australia is looking for entrepreneurs!

And yes, you can open a business on a student visa!

“It is estimated that by 2020, 50% of the workforce will be business owners or freelancers”

– Forbes Magazine

For that reason, we’d like to share the 9 steps for you Open a Business in Australia

1. Connect your passion with your strength

What is the formula for entrepreneurial success? Academy of Entrepreneurs interviewed over 1000+ entrepreneurs, from 100+ industries and 50+ countries to answer this BIG question. Step one towards entrepreneurial success is connecting one’s passion with strengths. We live in a world where our passion is meant to be a hobby on the side. Stop that!
There are places such as the Academy of Entrepreneurs that empower you to turn your passion into a thriving business. #BossYourFuture #DoWhatYouLove

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2. Market research

Invest time and effort into comprehensive market research. Do your SWOT analysis;
(Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats). Do the SWOT not just for your business idea, but also yourself and your competitors. Click this link for more info.

A little tip: try to avoid just looking within your specific industry. In today’s world of sharing economy, high transparency and globalisation, etc, a lot of industries cross over. For example, if you are planning on launching a drink business, be aware of how the Amazon and their drones can be both a treat and an opportunity for your start-up.

Lastly, get out on the streets, speak to the public & future customers (not just family and friends – who love us too much to give us real feedback), run focus groups, survey monkey, etc. Feedback is vital for idea development and product placement.

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3. Marketing mix

Although Marketing Mix is over 50 years old, it is still very relevant today and allows you as a future entrepreneur to determine your product or service offering.

The Product (or service) should solve a “problem” for your customers… and hopefully, exceed the customer expectation. It has to be positioned and available at the perfect Place where your customer’s shop. The Price positioning has to be chosen thoughtfully, it has to represent good value, however, that does not mean it should be the cheapest available. Cheap can de-value your product/business.

Thanks to the power of online channels the promotional strategy is more affordable and can give you better-targeted results/ROI if you use the right tools. Think about what message do you want to convey and how you will best reach the heart and mind of your customers – and make them take action and buy from you.

Although your businesses may consist of intangible products, physical evidence can very powerful. That doesn’t mean you need to rent a shop, it could be done in the form of printed flyers.

And how effective are your processes? Map out the customer journey & experience to identify opportunities to develop a stronger and more effective customer pipeline, conversion, retention, and referral process.

Lastly, the strength of the business will many times lay in the people. Having the right team is essential. Your team needs to live & breathe your values.

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4. Name Checker

Ready to register the business name? Wait….!

Before you get started with business name registration, buy the domain, design your branding, set up the social media channels, and all of the other exciting stuff done >> go online to https://www.namecheckr.com/ and see what platforms your business name is available.

5. Start-up lawyer

They will help you navigate and understand all laws and legal obligations of your business/industry in Australia. It’s important to get the correct legal structure from the beginning. You don’t want to be raising capital, pitching to investors, negotiating shares meanwhile you aren’t yet legally compliant. Study Anywhere_biz_4 6. Choose your business structure

In Australia, there are four commonly used business structures, which one is best suited for you?

Sole trader – as an individual you are legally responsible for all aspects of the business
Partnership – an association of people or entities operating a business together but not as a company
Company – A legal entity that separate shareholders from the company in regards to legal responsibilities
Trust – an entity that holds assets or income for the benefit of others

7. Australian Business Number (ABN)

On a student visa, you can apply for an ABN. It’s free and takes only a few minutes. Click here to get started.

8. Australian Company Number (ACN)

Thinking big?! Then register your company name. Easy company (easycompanies.com.au) costs around $550 only and will give you all the power to start trading as a structured company (with Board of Directors, a Constitution etc).

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9. Community

Building a personal network of like-minded entrepreneurs has unlimited power (and benefits). Surround yourself with people who are focused, have similar goals, ask the right questions, give you advice, want to see you succeed, and will connect you to their network.

Did you know that 78% of startups say that networking was vital to their entrepreneurial success?

So….what are you doing there?

Focus on what you love, use your talent, do your market research, pick the right name, consult with a lawyer, register your business/company, and network network network!!!

Do you want to know more about opportunities on how you, with an international student visa, can start businesses in Australia or connect to start-ups that have already started their journey and succeeded? Or do you need help finding the right course that will support you on your entrepreneurial journey? You can contact Study Anywhere for more information or request a free Student Visa quote.

The article is written by Anton Fredriksson from the Academy of Entrepreneurs.

TIPS AND TRICKS WHEN IT COMES TO SAVING MONEY

This article is written by Alanna Tomazin

Living and studying abroad is not always cheap. Sometimes you might find it hard to be saving a bit of extra cash in your pocket. When there is constantly payments going out of your bank that you require living comfortably, it can sometimes be a struggle. To help you out we’ve come up with a few handy tips that might be worth your while when it comes to saving money and smarter shopping.

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Money Boxes
Now it might sound like a thing you would have done when you were a little kid trying to save some pocket money – but having a money box is actually a really fun and effective way to save those dollars. Simply find an old jar or you can purchase a cheap money tin from a discount store. You can decorate your money box however you desire, and the best way to make sure you don’t go picking out those unnecessary dollars from your savings is to put a little lock on there and hide the key in a special spot. Any spare change you have, just keep putting it in your money box – you will be surprised how much you can actually save over time from this little trick.

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Smart Shopping
Sometimes when you are doing your regular grocery shopping you will find that things can be quite expensive. Not to worry though, because there is an easy solution to finding bargains on the shelves. Check out the best places to shop below:

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ALDI

If you are someone who loves bargains then you should definitely give shopping at ALDI a good go! ALDI is a discount supermarket and offers you with smarter shopping, giving you high-quality items at the lowest possible prices. That’s definitely what you want to hear!

Tip: Not only will you find cheap groceries here, ALDI also offers some great outdoor equipment, clothing, and other accessories, including household items.

Coles
If you like reduced prices then a trip to Coles later at night is for you! Coles usually have marked down salads, sweets, and savouries of a night time and this is a really great way to stock up for those late night nibbles you get.

Tip: If you are going to stock up on these insanely good treats for an insanely good price, just be sure to remember that the expiry dates on them are fast approaching. They usually last a day or two before you have to throw them out, which is why they become reduced in the first place. Just remember to shop smart!

Farmers Markets
Farmers markets are another great way to find cheap goodies. Most areas hold regular farmers markets on weekends. Here you can find farm fresh produce such as fruit and vegetables, as well as local wines and other delicious goodies – all for a great price.

Tip: If you are up for it, traveling around to different farmers markets in different areas could turn into a great day trip, so be sure to bring a few friends along for some market shopping fun!

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Extra Tips

If you’re living in shared accommodation, sharing bills as well as paying for groceries is an effective way to keep living comfortably on a budget. Be sure to split grocery bills equally to ensure there is fairness for everyone.

If you ever feel the need to grab dollars out of your money box be sure to evaluate whether you really need the money or if it is just for something you want. Only break into your money box if there is an emergency need for some cash.

When shopping at Coles or Woolworths buying the no-frills brands which are the brands provided by the companies can actually be cheaper than buying big brand name products. It’s always best to compare prices when shopping in supermarkets.

PICKING THE PERFECT PHONE PROVIDER

This article is written by Alanna Tomazin

While studying abroad you probably want to know who the best phone operator is to go with so you can keep contact with your family and friends back home as well as get the greatest deal on data, international calls, and the best mobile service. So we’ve come up with a few phone providers and tips to make your decision just that little bit easier.

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Phone Tips

While studying and living here in Australia it is best to purchase a SIM card or an Australian mobile number when you arrive here, as using your home phone number can actually be quite costly.

There are two types of mobile phone accounts you can choose from:

Pre-paid:

A pre-paid service gives you heaps of flexibility because you can control how much you spend and can stop using the service anytime. You simply top up with credit as needed which can be purchased at service stations, shops and even over the phone and online. You can purchase pre-paid SIM cards in many shops and supermarkets as well as the mobile phone providers listed below.

Contract:

If you’re going to be studying and living here in Australia for a long period of time then a contract might work out cheaper for you. There are numerous mobile phone operators such as the ones listed below which offer phone plans with a fixed price per month for a certain number of calls, texts, and data.

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Telstra

Staying in touch with loved ones and friends is the most important thing, no matter where either of you is. Telstra is Australia’s largest mobile network and they have some amazing international packs on offer allowing you to make calls as often and as long as you like.

Telstra also offers the best service even when you’re in the most rural and remote areas, they will have you covered. It’s also the best in case of an emergency.

To check out what coverage and data speeds are available in your area head online to Telstra.

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Optus

If you’re calling overseas a lot in Australia then an Optus International Minute Pack is what you need! An International Minute Pack is an easy and inexpensive way to save on calls to mobiles and fixed lines in 32 countries while you’re here in Australia.

For more information head over to Optus online on how to create an account and start making those phone calls!

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Vodafone

Vodafone offers easy and affordable calls from Australia either on a plan or pre-paid.

If you’re after a plan with no lock-in contracts check out more information here and if you want something where you recharge on the go then a pre-paid Vodafone gives you a 35-day expiry on selected Data and Talk Combo Packs and recharges. This is a cheap and effective way to go.

Tip: Data combos have heaps of data, and Talk Combos give you 1000 standard international minutes from Australia to either 15 or 25 selected destinations. How good is that!

Virgin Mobile

Virgin mobile includes standard international calls as part of all of their post-paid plans. You can check out their call rates here.

One of the best things about Virgin Mobile is that they offer International SMS. Sending a text to anywhere overseas from Australia should not cost much more than sending one to your neighbour!

Tip: You can find more info on how to set up mobile plans or how to use pre-paid at Virgin Mobile.

WHERE TO FIND A SUMMER JOB THAT SUITS YOU

This article is written by Alanna Tomazin

Looking for a job over the summer? Great, because we’ve come up with a few handy tips on how and where you can find the perfect summer job while staying here in Australia that suits you!

The thought of looking for a job for the summer can put a buzz kill on your holiday vibes, but the truth is having employment means having money, plus you can meet new people and make new friends. While over here in Australia you’ll need the extra cash to enjoy your time while on a break as sometimes the fun things Australia has to offer aren’t always cheap or free.

Tip: If you’re ever wondering what events are on in Sydney or other areas, head over to Visit NSW.

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Cafes/Restaurant

Living in busy city areas you will find that there are a huge number of cafes and restaurants to choose from when you’re after a nice cup of hot coffee or dinner with friends. But have you ever thought about working in one? Working in a cafe and/or restaurant is a great experience, you can make coffees and be a waitress or a waiter taking food and drinks out to customers. These kinds of places have a busy atmosphere so if you’re up for a challenge then this is the right area of work for you.

To apply for a job at a cafe/restaurant, you should print out a few copies of your resume and walk around to your local businesses, dropping them in.

Tip 1: Be sure to walk in with a smile and say that you would like to drop your resume in and ask if they have any jobs going at the moment.

Tip 2: When working in a cafe employees are usually required to have a barista certificate, meaning that they have basic coffee making skills and know how to use an espresso machine. Not to worry if you don’t have one yet, just jump online at TAFE NSW or Barista Basics for more information.

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Pubs

Gaining bar work is another great place to get some extra cash in your pocket. All you need is your RSA and RCG to guarantee getting hired in this area of work, where you will be pouring beers, making drinks and dealing with gambling games. If you don’t have either you can head online and find a location near you.

Most places such as CBD College offer packages that are cheap and affordable for students like you.

The best bit about working in a pub is that the hours are super flexible and the money is pretty good, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy other activities with your friends.

Retail

With Christmas coming up over the summer break there are always more jobs available for those interested in clothes and jewelry. This is mainly because the shops can get pretty hectic with everyone wanting to buy gifts and do their Christmas shopping.

If you think you would like to work in retail you should definitely print out your resume and drop them into local shops that you are interested in. However, a more efficient way to look for a job in retail is to use job sites such as SEEK, Indeed, and Adzuna.

Tip: Job sites allow you to create a profile and add a CV which you can send through to employers when you apply for a job online. They also send you emails with jobs that suit you.

Harvest/Fruit Picking

Harvest and fruit picking are extremely popular for backpackers and international students who are looking for a change of scenery and love to travel. It is becoming increasingly popular and work is available all over Australia, especially in the summer. The farming industry needs tens of thousands of casual laborers to help pick fruit.

You can work and play by traveling around to different locations and often, you will be paid calculated by the amount of fruit you pick to per full bucket or cart. However, sometimes it is $10-$30 an hour depending on speed.

If you’re interested in experiencing something new and exciting then head online to Harvest Trail for more info and to find the next fruit picking location for you!

How to balance study and a social life

The article is written by Loren Howarth

Trying to keep on top of your studies, having a social life, and exploring Australia can be difficult. Although maintaining good grades is important, it is also essential that you have time doing your favourite things and hanging out with friends. Finding this balance can seem daunting, but don’t worry we have you covered with our top tips to have the best of both worlds.

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Plan a weekly schedule

Leaving assessments to the last minute creates unnecessary stress. Instead, create a weekly schedule so you can plan what assessments you need to do. You’ll be able to see how much time is required for each task, also allowing you time to consider what can be left until a later date. This will help you organise your social life as well, as you will be able to work out when you are free to hang out with friends.

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Know your limits

Sometimes trying to balance study and a social life can become a bit tricky, and seem completely overwhelming. This is when you need to look at everything you have planned and see where you can cut back, to ensure you don’t overwork yourself. This can be as simple as taking some breaks during a study or having a night off from doing assessments to go out and have fun with friends. It will ensure you come back refreshed for study with a clear mind, as well as having the social life you deserve.

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Eat at home, but not alone

When you catch up with friends, you don’t have to go out to a cafe and spend money on an unforgettable meal. Instead, why not invite some friends or people in your course over for some lunch? This way you will be fitting in some social time and you can also help each other study. Plus, you’ll have much more fun trying to put a meal together!

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Do one thing every day

For some students, just the thought of studying can send them into a wave of procrastination. Instead, break up your workload into smaller chunks and do bit by bit each day. This is also useful to do if you are struggling to stay on top of your studies. This will also help you to maintain your social life, as you can dedicate time to hanging out with friends. Your list might look something like this:

social: catch up with Samantha
studies: read one chapter of a textbook
studies: write down notes from a reading for another subject
relaxation: watch an episode of a favourite tv show

Top 5 things to do in Melbourne

The article is written by Candice Tan

If you’ve lived in Sydney or Melbourne for even a short amount of time, you would probably have heard about the small rivalry between the two most populous cities in Australia. In this spirit of this light-hearted competition and our earlier article about Sydney’s hot spots, here is our essential ‘To do’ list in Melbourne:

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Have a coffee in the laneways!

Melbourne may not have famous icons such as the Sydney Opera House or Sydney Harbour Bridge, but it does make a great cup of coffee. Take a wander down the many vibrant laneways and admire the colourful street art as you sit and sip on an expertly-made espresso or flat white, or be like a local and grab your takeaway cup as you explore what the city has to offer.

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Soak up some culture!

Melbourne has long been considered the Australian city with the most European-feel and cultural activities. From the majestic Princess Theatre to the iconic Comedy Theatre, you will have plenty of choices to spend a night out in Melbourne. Or, just walk down Swanston Street or Bourke Street and enjoy the world-class performances by an assortment of talented buskers.

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Go to a festival!

It is almost impossible to be in Melbourne and not encounter a festival happening around the city. From the world famous Melbourne Comedy Festival and Melbourne Fringe to smaller festivals celebrating the multicultural nature of the world’s most liveable city, weekends in Melbourne are never dull. There will always be something to see and do (and probably eat!) at Federation Square or along the Yarra River.

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Hop on a tram!

Melbourne has the largest tram network in the world and on top of that, riding on the trams within the city is free – yes, free! This is something you won’t find in pricey Sydney. There’s even a tram catering to visitors, with a guided tour of the main attractions around the city. The extensive tram system and simple grid-shaped layout of the city also make it one of the easiest cities to navigate.

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Get out of the CBD!

While the city will keep you more than occupied, if you drive just a couple of hours outside of the city, you’ll encounter some of the most breathtaking places in Australia. From the Great Ocean Road’s spectacular 12 Apostles to the magnificent Wilson’s Promontory, you’ll be amazed at what the Victorian coasts have to offer. Or, be a like a local and take the opportunity to go on a hike or walk when the sun’s out at popular Dandenong Ranges or Macedon Ranges.
So which city is better? Well, it’s a tough one. But one thing’s for sure – both cities have great things to offer and anyone visiting Australia should get a taste of both if they can!

The real cost of studying and living in Australia

This article is written by Loren Howarth

Full of beautiful beaches and friendly charm, Australia is the perfect destination to study and experience the world away from home. But before you pack your bags for an adventure of a lifetime, you should consider the costs.

As the standard of living in Australia is increasing, so too is the cost of living. To help you get a bit of an insight, we’ve worked out living costs for several major cities. So get saving and start drawing up a financial plan!

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SYDNEY

Earlier this year, Sydney was ranked as the most expensive city in the world. But don’t let that deter you from studying in this great place. There are several housing options to choose from, including a shared house or unit which costs roughly $200-$300 per week, or a one-bedroom unit which can set you back $400-$550 per week. While looking for where to stay, be sure to choose an area close to where you’re studying so you can walk or easily catch public transport. Sydney also has some irresistible food on offer, as well as an energetic night life. But try not to blow your money all at once, as this could cost you over $200 a week! Plus, you’ll need to put some money aside for electricity and gas, which costs between $35-$140 per week.

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MELBOURNE

Choosing to live in Melbourne is relatively cheaper than Sydney, and overall it will save you around $200. In the city, it will cost $200-$300 per week for rent in a shared house, $40-$100 for power costs and around $80-$150 in food. One of the great characteristics of Melbourne is the city’s public transport facilities. In the central business district, you will have access to the free tram system which gives you easy access to where you need to go. By catching these free trams, you’ll save a lot of money which you can spend on more activities and adventures!

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BRISBANE

If you want to study right near the beach, then Brisbane is the perfect study location for you. But this dreamy destination does come at a cost week rent in a small yet furnished studio in a reasonably priced area is around $380, and add that with $40 a week for utilities, it certainly isn’t cheap. And as the city is quite expensive, you’ll be looking to find somewhere in the outer suburbs, which means you’ll mainly be relying on public transport. These costs certainly all add up!

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PERTH

Perth is a beautiful city that has an easygoing character, as well as plenty of nightlife. According to the Economist Intelligence Unit’s Worldwide Cost of Living Survey last year, Perth was found to be more affordable than Brisbane, Melbourne, and Adelaide. With international students also receiving a 40% discount on all public transport services. A one-bedroom apartment outside the city centre costs just over $300 a week while residing in an apartment in the heart of the city will set you back around $400.

Although all of this might sound daunting, don’t let the numbers put you off! If you have your sights set on studying in Australia, draw up a financial plan, put aside any spare change, and see if there are any scholarships you are eligible for. And if you ever need a hand, the people at Study Anywhere are always here to help you find the right course!

THE RSA: WHAT IT IS, WHY YOU NEED IT AND HOW YOU GET IT

The article is written by Candice Locklee

One of the first things you should be thinking about when starting your exciting new life in Australia is how to get a job. It can be a stressful time when you’re applying for a job in a foreign country, but there are things you can do to improve your chances.

You may have heard of the term RSA. If you plan on getting a job in the hospitality industry where they serve alcohol to customers, you’ll need to take a short course in RSA training and hold a certificate before you are allowed to work there.

If you’ve never heard of an RSA or just want some more info, read on to find out what exactly an RSA is and why it’s a great idea to get one.

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WHAT IT IS

RSA stands for Responsible Service of Alcohol. If you plan on working in an environment that sells, serves or supplies alcohol in any form, it is a legal requirement in Australia that you have completed RSA training and hold an RSA certificate. Whether you’re planning on working in a restaurant or a café, a bar or a nightclub – an RSA is essential, even if you’re only cleaning up empty glasses rather than serving customers alcohol directly.

WHY YOU NEED IT

By listing an RSA on your resume, you are giving yourself a much greater chance to secure a job in Australia by opening yourself up to a wider range of opportunities. As the majority of overseas students will find work in the hospitality industry, having an RSA will make it much easier to gain the attention of potential employers and help you get that job you have your eye on.

Aside from being a requirement, RSA training will teach you all about alcohol laws in Australia and instruct you on how to react in any number of situations that can arise in an environment that serves alcohol.

By the end of the course, you will understand important things such as the amount of alcohol in each drink that is served, the amount of alcohol that can safely be served to one individual, and what to do when dealing with someone who has had more drinks than they should. Health and safety rules are essential to know, as are laws such as the times of alcohol service (these are different for each state) and the fines you can be facing for serving alcohol to an intoxicated person.

HOW YOU GET IT

The process of getting an RSA is different for each state and territory in Australia, so it’s a good idea to visit the correct website to check what is required for the area that you plan on working in.

An RSA course can be taken in person or ~~online~~ (excluding Victoria) and can be completed in around 4-6 hours.

Update: Student Visa holders can now only get the RSA certificate at a CRICOS registered school.

Generally, the process requires you to pay a fee and read through the course materials provided to you either online or in a training center. You will then need to pass a test based on your understanding of the material that will be assessed by a registered trainer. Depending on your location, signatures and photo ID may be needed.

Once you pass the test, you can usually have your certificate of completion handed to you on the same day.

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THINGS TO KNOW

Update: Student Visa holders can now only get the RSA certificate at a CRICOS registered school.

It’s possible to complete the RSA course online and receive your certificate the same day in all states and territories of Australia, excluding Victoria. If you plan on working in Victoria, you’ll have to visit a training center and complete a face-to-face course to get your certificate.

Before you start, check that the service provider is an RTO (Registered Training Organisation) and the course is Nationally Accredited so that your certificate is recognized in Australia.

In NSW, you will need a Photo Competency card in order to work. Similar to a driver license, the Photo Competency card is proof that you completed your RSA training. After you have passed the RSA test, you will be given your RSA Interim Certificate (valid for 90 days) which you can use to start work right away. You must then apply for your Photo Competency card as soon as possible which can be used for up to 5 years.

Here you can request an application form for the RSA course in Sydney or in Gold Coast and Brisbane.

BEST RETAIL EXPERIENCES ON THE GOLD COAST

The article is written by Candice Locklee

If the white sands, rolling waves and endless summers haven’t been enough to lure you here yet, the Gold Coast also boasts some of the best shopping locations in Queensland for tourists and locals alike to indulge in some serious retail therapy.

From designer handbags and high-end fashion to all you could dream at bargain prices, the Gold Coast draws visitors to its shopping centers all year round with a unique and diverse retail experience that is bound to suit any budget.

There’s nothing like buying yourself something nice to feel better and chase away the study blues – you deserve it!

For those days when you wake up with an urge to spend your hard-earned cash, we’ve got five of the best spots on the Gold Coast to keep you shopping all day long.

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ROBINA TOWN CENTRE

As the second biggest shopping center on the Gold Coast, Robina Town Centre is a great option for an all-day out shopping experience. With over 350 stores, including specialty stores, department stores and supermarkets, two large food courts and an outdoor dining extravaganza known as the Promenade, there’s plenty to keep you busy as you search for that perfect bargain.

Thanks to ongoing developments, Robina has also expanded to include big name international brands such as Zara and the soon-to-open H&M, along with a newly styled eating area called The Kitchens where you can feast on dishes from around the world and enjoy the frequent live cooking demonstrations performed on stage as you dine.

Robina Town Centre is going to keep getting bigger and better as new stores are opened throughout this year and next, so get on down there and pick yourself up something special!

SURFERS PARADISE

As the central heart of the Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise has always been a hotspot for tourists and locals alike. Perfectly situated alongside the iconic beachside, Surfers draws millions of sand and sun loving people from all around the world to its shores each year who want to combine their love of retail with the beach culture that has become synonymous with Gold Coast living.

Pick up cheap souvenirs in one of the many tourist friendly stores throughout the district, browse through countless surf shops and fashion outlets, score a bargain at vintage and second-hand stores and don’t forget to visit the famous Cavill Avenue – the main shopping strip in the city packed full of shopping malls, eateries and fun things to do while in the city. You’re sure to pick up the perfect outfit to hit one of the many clubs you can find in the area.

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JAMES ST., BURLEIGH HEADS

When you’re over the crowds at the shopping centers, head on down to Burleigh Heads for a more relaxed and alternative retail experience.

James St. is a popular short one-way street jammed with beachy boutiques and hidden arcades where you can find anything from furniture and homewares, old books, vintage clothes and handbags to scrumptious cafés, health food stores, and artisan bakeries.

The fashion stores on James St. offer visitors something a little different from the popular brands you can get in shopping centers, often at very reasonable prices. Here you’ll find quirky brands and up-and-coming designers who offer designs that stick to the laid back Burleigh fashion code – think bohemian gypsies and Coachella casual – perfect for the chill vibes you’ll get in this area any time of the year.

After you’re done browsing and buying, there’s a great selection of lunch options around Burleigh, including plenty of vegan and organic meals for the health conscious. However, we suggest grabbing some fish and chips, a cold drink and heading for the beach across the road. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a long day of shopping!

HARBOUR TOWN OUTLET SHOPPING CENTRE

Harbour Town is a must for those looking to buy high-end labels at fantastic bargain prices. Situated at Biggera Waters, Harbour Town is a unique outdoor shopping experience like no other you’ll find on the Gold Coast.

Here you can find big international and local brands that are sold at a fraction of the cost – if you’re lucky you can find items up to 70% off the original retail price in a regular store. There are over 240 outlet stores currently opened at Harbour Town, including Victoria’s Secret, Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein and Hugo Boss, as well as iconic Australian labels such as Oroton, Mimco, and UGG.

There’s also a great selection of dining options available, from restaurants to cafés, and a big cinema complex that offers movies at a cheap rate.

Harbour Town is easily accessed by bus and is only fifteen minutes from the heart of Surfers Paradise – so there’s no excuse for not popping in and grabbing a massive bargain.

Study Anywhere_PACIFIC FAIR SHOPPING CENTRE

PACIFIC FAIR SHOPPING CENTRE

After a huge redevelopment, Pacific Fair Shopping Centre is the largest shopping center on the Gold Coast and it’s easy to spend an entire day here. You’ll find anything from big global brands here, such as H&M, Zara, Sephora, and Uniqlo, to iconic designer labels, to homegrown brands and everything in between.

It’s also good to note that Pacific Fair is a nice looking shopping center. It’s sprawled between two large main indoor centers and an outdoor area that connects the two with plenty of comfy seating and dining areas to relax in between.

There’s a real resort vibe at this shopping center with the numerous fountains, bridges, lighting and tastefully decorated outdoor space – it will make you feel like you’re relaxing by the poolside with a fancy cocktail after a hard day’s work.

There isn’t much you can’t find here and there’s always bound to be a sale going on somewhere for those looking for a bargain. It’s official – Pacific Fair is a retail lover’s dream and your ultimate shopping experience on the Gold Coast.

Would you like to live and enjoy the lifestyle in Gold Coast as an international student? We can help you to find the right school to match the desired lifestyle. Send us a message to receive more information.

This is how you can make friends instantly—wherever you may be

The article is written by Pamela Choo

Making friends can be a hard task for some, especially when you’re in a foreign country. You’re focused on settling in and getting used to the new environment that socialising may not be your first priority. However, making good friends in a new place that you’ll be living in for a while can be pretty vital. It can make your experience living abroad a more positive and memorable one. So here are some tips on how to instantly make friends.

Study Anywhere_Benice

Be nice

Yes, just be nice. I’m not saying go ahead and be a pushover, but simply be a nice person when you encounter a new human being. Say hi, or compliment them on something you noticed. When you set the intention to be a nice person, you’ll naturally be a magnet to other people.

Study Anywhere_Smile

Smile. And do it often.

This, I find, is simple yet really effective. If you’re not the smiling type, I suggest trying to practice smiling more often. When you’re at a social event and you meet new people, start with a smile. You’ll find that most times people will smile back and feel more at ease around you. This could also lead to an engaging conversation—you never know! But a smile can be all it takes to make a new friend.

Study Anywhere_Be genuine

Be genuine

All these tips won’t really make a difference if you don’t appear genuine. In anything that you do, let your words and actions come from a real place. If you’re going to compliment someone, mean it. If you’re asking someone, ‘how are you?’ genuinely take the time to be interested. Make eye contact with the other person. If you’re looking to make new friends, it’s important to be open to random encounters and to be truly present in them.

Study Anywhere_Be helpful

Be helpful

If you see someone who is lost around campus or if someone appears to be ill, take the initiative to help him or her out. It doesn’t have to be a big move. The first step can be asking if he or she needs help with anything. It can be difficult for a person to ask for help, especially if it’s with someone he or she doesn’t know too well. So let them know it’s no trouble and that you’re willing to help!

Study Anywhere_Be lighthearted

Be lighthearted—don’t take yourself too seriously

In the initial stages of getting to know someone new, it can be good to keep things light and to even have some silliness or jokes in the conversation. When you appear lighthearted, it will help the other person to feel more comfortable around you. We all want to be around people who are positive and easy to be around.

Study Anywhere_Skip the small talk

Skip the small talk

At the same time, though, your conversations with someone new doesn’t necessarily have to be revolved around small talk about the weather or how your day went. If you feel comfortable enough, sometimes skipping the small talk can enable you to make new, and possibly more lasting, friends. You can ask them about their backgrounds, their interests and hobbies. You might find that the other person is willing to share simply because you asked.

Study Anywhere_Listen

Listen

With that, it brings us to the next and final tip, which is the importance of being a good listener. Most of my closest friends are amazing listeners, and I think this is a quality that you can’t find in just anyone. Everyone likes to be heard. And it’s easy to tell when someone isn’t really listening (we’re all guilty of that, am I right?). So being more conscious of listening whenever you’re speaking to a new acquaintance can attract new friendships into your life.

If following all these tips seems a bit daunting, just go with the flow when you meet someone new. The most important thing of all is to be yourself. The kind of person you are attracts the kind of people you become friends with, so just be you. You’ll meet the right people in due time and you might just surprise yourself with the new friendships that you make in a foreign place. They may just be your ‘home’ away from home.

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