Melbourne is the capital city of the state of Victoria. With a
multicultural population of over three million, it is the second
largest city in Australia and its financial and business centre; but,
with the highest number of educational institutions of any city in the
country, it could as well be called the education capital of
Australia.
Its large Asian community has ensured a mix of Eastern and Western
culture. Melbourne boasts an international reputation for the quality
and diversity of its food, and Asian cuisine has had a strong
influence. Chinatown is only a short walk from MIT, but there are also
abundant food outlets serving all varieties of Asian food all over the
city.
Melbourne’s famous shopping centres are all within easy reach of MIT,
as are the many venues which make for a fascinating night life.
In terms of lifestyle, Melbourne offers particular advantages: it is
an attractive city, characterised by distinguished architecture, wide
streets and open parkland surrounding the downtown area with leafy
suburbs beyond. By world standards it is a clean, safe, green city.
There is access to a broad range of spacious accommodation within easy
reach of MIT.
Sporting facilities are excellent, and a short trip gives access to
skiing on Victoria’s extensive snowfields in the winter season. Such
famous tourist attractions as Healesville Sanctuary, the Goldfields,
Phillip Island, Wilson’s Promontary, the Gippsland Lakes and the Great
Ocean Road are easily accessible.
Obviously there is good reason for Melbourne’s having been designated
‘the world’s most liveable city’.
Climate
Melbourne has a temperate climate, with relatively hot, dry summers
and cool winters with a higher rainfall. Although it is almost never
humid, temperatures can vary significantly at any time of year. Winter
nights can be chilly.
Public Transport
Melbourne has an extensive public transport network. It is efficient,
reliable and reasonably priced. Trams, trains and buses serve
interconnecting grids throughout Melbourne. All major routes pass
within a couple of minutes’ walk from MIT.
Cost of Living
The cost of living depends upon a student’s background, individual
lifestyle and expectations. However, most students seem to manage on
approximately A$12,000 a year (exclusive of tuition fees). This covers
the following;
Accommodation
Food
Public transport
Clothing
Entertainment
Books
Stationery
Incidental expenses
Work Opportunities
Overseas students are legally permitted to undertake paid employment up to
20 hours a week during normal school sessions, and full time during
vacations. Upon commencement of the course, students who wish to work
part-time must obtain a student work Permit Visa for a fee. For More
information on working in Australia please visit DIMMIA on
http://www.immi.gov.au/study/working/index.htm
