TRANSPORT AND PERSONAL SAFETY

Public transport

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In Australia, public transportation is dependable and frequently used, particularly in metro and metropolitan regions. To insure the safety of public transportation users, a variety of security measures have been introduced, including security officials and guards, aid stations, enough illumination, and surveillance cameras. When taking public transportation, however, you need use caution:

 

Isolated bus, train, and tram stations should be avoided.

Check the bus schedules to prevent huge lines, especially late at night.

At night, the train cars closest to the driver or guard are the brightest and safest.

 

If you find yourself alone or with only one other person in a railway carriage, you may find it more pleasant to change carriages.

 

For more in depth advice on public transport safety, visit the Victoria Police website.

 

Road safety

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Roads in Australia are typically well-kept, with decent lighting and signs in metropolitan and metropolitan areas. Large and small cars, heavy and light rail, bicycles, and even people frequently share highways.

 

As a result, overseas students who are unfamiliar with Australian driving conditions should be especially concerned about road safety.

 

International students in Australia should consider the following as road users:

 

The left side of the road is where Australians drive.

In private automobiles, wearing seat belts is required (including taxis and ride-share).

Alcohol restrictions for drivers are strictly regulated (0.05). If you're intending to drive, it's advisable to avoid drinking.

In all Australian states and territories, using a mobile phone while driving is highly forbidden, with severe fines and punishments for violators.

Bicyclists are also required to wear bicycle helmets.

Exiting a car from the kerbside is the safest option; always keep an eye out for bikes and pedestrians before opening the door.

 

In Australia, the usage of bicycles and scooters (including e-bikes and e-scooters) has skyrocketed, particularly in inner-city regions where many students live, study, and hang out. When riding home at night, it's critical to use bicycle lanes, follow traffic laws, and make sure your bike is well-lit.

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More information about safe driving in Australia and road safety may be found on the Tourism Australia website.

 

Taxis

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When taking a cab in Australia, keep the following recommendations in mind:

 

Sit wherever you're most comfortable — passengers often sit in the front or back of the cab.

Before boarding a cab, double-check that you have the address of your destination.

Tell the driver the route you want to travel to your destination, and don't be afraid to object if the driver takes you on a different, unknown path.

If you don't want the driver to know your particular address, have them drop you off somewhere nearby.

 

Going out

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Here are some easy things to think about when you're out with friends or by yourself:

 

Always prepare ahead of time for your return travel, especially at night. You might wish to reserve a cab ahead of time or coordinate transportation with a buddy. Always double-check that you have enough cash to travel home.

Travel with a companion or in a group if possible.

Keep your things and bag near to your body and visible at all times.

Never take a ride from a stranger.

If you don't have a cell phone, make sure you have enough money or a phone card to make a call.

Use pedestrian walkways wherever possible and cross the roadway at pedestrian crossings or signals.

If you don't need to carry valuables with you, leave them at home. Jewelry, technological devices like as iPads, and your passport are all examples. If you've recently arrived and don't yet have a permanent residence, enquire about safe storage facilities on campus with your institution's international student assistance staff.

Carry only a little quantity of cash. ATMs can be located at stores, supermarkets, gas stations, shopping malls, pubs, storefronts, and a variety of other public locations.

If an emergency arises, dial 000. It's important to remember that calls to 000 are free.

 

On campus or at school

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Here are some safety considerations for when you're at your institution at any time of day or night:

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Make sure you're familiar with your institution's security and emergency procedures, as well as those in your immediate neighbourhood. This information should be included in your information packet or sent to you once you arrive.

For out-of-office hours, several big institutions provide security escort services or bus shuttle services. Check with your institution to determine whether this is a service they provide.

If you're driving to your institution, attempt to choose a parking spot that's close to your destination and well-lit.

When leaving your institution late at night, stroll with a companion or group and select well-lit pathways that are ideally used by other people.

 

Utilizing the internet

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International students frequently spend a significant amount of time online, on their laptops and/or on their mobile phones. These are a must-have for staying in touch with relatives and new acquaintances in Australia.

However, there are hazards associated with using Internet devices, and all students should take precautions to safeguard themselves online. The eSafety Commissioner website was established to protect students and children online, and Australia is a world leader in detecting online abuse.

When utilising the internet, like with any other medium, you should be aware of spam, online scams such as phishing, online bullying, and identity theft.

 

Australia.gov.au and www.esafety.gov.au include tools and additional information about protecting yourself online and reporting abuse. Check out the websites of many Australian internet service providers for further information.