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Banking In Australia

Banking in Australia is dominated by four major banks: Commonwealth Bank, Westpac, Australia & New Zealand Banking Group and National Australia Bank. Banking in Australia is generally safe, reliable, and convenient, with a wide range of services and options available to customers. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Best Banking Services providers in Australia

  • Types of banks:

    There are four main types of banks in Australia - the "big four" banks (ANZ, Commonwealth Bank, NAB, and Westpac), smaller banks, credit unions, and building societies. Each type of bank has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to research and compare different options.

  • Opening a bank account:

    To open a bank account in Australia, you will generally need to provide identification such as a passport or driver's license, proof of address, and your visa or residency details. You can usually open an account in person at a bank branch or online.

  • Types of bank accounts:

    There are several types of bank accounts available in Australia, including transaction accounts, savings accounts, and term deposits. Each type of account has its own features and benefits, so it's important to choose the one that best suits your needs.

  • Online banking:

    Many Australian banks offer online banking services, allowing you to access your accounts, transfer money, pay bills, and manage your finances from anywhere with an internet connection.

  • Fees and charges:

    Banks in Australia typically charge fees for certain transactions and services, such as ATM withdrawals, overseas transactions, and account maintenance. It's important to understand the fees and charges associated with your account and to choose a bank that offers competitive rates and fees.

  • Financial regulation:

    The banking industry in Australia is regulated by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) to ensure that banks operate in a safe and stable manner.

    Overall, banking in Australia is a relatively straightforward process, and there are many options available to suit different needs and preferences. It's important to do your research and choose a bank that offers the services, features, and fees that best meet your needs.

Best OSHC providers in Australia

In Australia, international students are required to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) as a condition of their student visa. OSHC provides coverage for medical and hospital treatments that the student may need while studying in Australia.

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OSHC is mandatory for most international students in Australia, and it helps cover the cost of medical treatment and hospital care while they are studying in the country. The level of coverage and cost of OSHC varies depending on the insurer and the policy selected, but it generally includes services such as doctor's visits, hospital care, prescription medications, and emergency ambulance services.

Choosing the right policy with relevant benefits and the best price is vital to our clients. Strom Edgo is partnered with the most popular health insurance providers such as Medibank, AHM and Allianz Care Australia, giving you the flexibility to take the health cover of your choice at a highly competitive price.

Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC)

Overseas Visitors Health Cover (OVHC) is a type of private health insurance available in Australia for visitors who are not eligible for Medicare, the public health insurance program. OVHC provides coverage for medical and hospital treatments that the visitor may need while in Australia..

OVHC policies typically cover the costs of hospital treatments, medical consultations, and prescription medications, among other medical expenses. Some policies may also include coverage for extras such as dental and vision care.

The level of coverage and cost of OVHC varies depending on the insurer and the policy selected. Some insurers also offer additional benefits, such as access to a network of healthcare providers and facilities.

It's important to note that OVHC is not a substitute for Medicare and does not provide coverage for all medical services. Visitors with OVHC can still be liable for some out-of-pocket expenses, and may need to pay a gap fee for certain medical treatments.

When selecting an OVHC policy, it's important to carefully compare different policies and insurers to find the one that best meets your needs and budget. Some insurers may also offer discounts for longer-term policies, so it's worth considering purchasing a policy that covers your entire stay in Australia.

Accommodation for Students studying in Australia

Strom Edgo can assist you in choosing the ideal arrangement depending on your academic objectives, preferred university, and financial constraints.

Let's examine your alternatives together!

  • On-Campus Accommodation:

    Notwithstanding the restricted availability of on-campus housing, Australian universities offer lodging for students. Therefore, it is advised to apply for on-campus housing in advance, especially when applying an application for on-campus housing in advance, especially when submitting an application for admission to that specific university. The price of on-campus housing can range from $200 to $300 per week

    Apartments near the on-campus property are rented out to students by some institutions in Australia. This choice offers security via on-campus housing. These flats allow for self-catered living, which is great for students.

  • Homestays:

    The homestay programme gives students the option of residing with an Australian family. The majority of the participants in this programme are secondary students or those doing short-term English courses. The institution's housing department has a list of vetted and trustworthy homestay hosts. With the help of this curriculum, a student can integrate some new living patterns while adjusting to Australian culture. Depending on the type of room—single or shared—and other factors, a homestay programme will likely cost between $250 and $380 per week. Together with possibilities for self-catering homestays, meals are supplied.

  • Hostel Accommodation

    Hostels and guest houses offer less-priced living options than on-campus housing or homestays. These run from $200 to $280 a week. Students who choose self-catering have access to a kitchen and restroom in the facilities.

  • Rental Accommodation

    Renting a home is a further alternative that international students in Australia can choose. The most popular option is a shared rental, which ranges in price from $125 to $250 per week.

    Students typically have to spend money on furniture because these accommodations might or might not provide certain facilities. The rent is usually paid fortnightly which might include utility bills like electricity, gas and water bills depending on the terms of tenancy.

    Contact us if you are facing challenge in finding suitable accommodation in Australia and we’ll be pleased to help you with your queries.

Australian students may be eligible for financial assistance such as Youth Allowance, Austudy, or ABSTUDY, which provide income support for eligible students. Additionally, students may be able to access scholarships, bursaries, and grants, which are often awarded based on academic merit or financial need.

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It's important for students to plan their finances carefully to ensure that they can cover their expenses and make the most of their earning opportunities. Some tips for managing student finances in Australia include creating a budget, keeping track of expenses, and exploring options for financial assistance, such as scholarships, bursaries, or student loans. Students can also consider alternative ways to save money, such as purchasing used textbooks or taking advantage of student discounts.

Get in touch with our experts and they will assist you through the process

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