Future Students

Everything you need to know before studying at Hawkesbury

Living and Studying in Australia

Offering a relaxed lifestyle, friendly people and spectacular scenery

A World-Class Education in One of Australia’s Most Liveable Cities

Welcome to Adelaide, the capital city of South Australia and one of Australia's most welcoming, affordable, and student-friendly destinations. As an international student at Hawkesbury Business School, you will enjoy a unique combination of high-quality education, cultural diversity, career opportunities, and an exceptional lifestyle.

Australia is internationally recognised for its high standards of education, innovative learning environments, and industry-focused training. Students benefit from practical, skills-based learning that prepares them for employment and career advancement in a global workforce. Hawkesbury Business School is committed to supporting students throughout their educational journey and helping them achieve their academic and professional goals.

Experience Adelaide – Australia's Festival and Education City

Adelaide is consistently recognised as one of the world's most liveable cities due to its affordability, safety, accessibility, and high quality of life. Unlike larger metropolitan cities, Adelaide offers a relaxed lifestyle while still providing access to modern infrastructure, employment opportunities, and vibrant cultural experiences.

Students can enjoy many of Adelaide's iconic attractions, including:

  • Rundle Mall – South Australia's premier shopping and entertainment precinct.
  • Adelaide Central Market – One of the largest fresh produce markets in the Southern Hemisphere.
  • Adelaide Botanic Garden – A beautiful green space ideal for relaxation and study breaks.
  • Glenelg Beach – A popular coastal destination accessible by tram from the city centre.
  • Adelaide Oval – A world-class sporting and entertainment venue.

A Multicultural and Inclusive Community

Adelaide is home to people from diverse cultural, linguistic, and religious backgrounds. International students are welcomed into a supportive and inclusive environment where they can build friendships, participate in community events, and experience Australian culture while sharing their own traditions and perspectives.

The city hosts numerous cultural celebrations and international festivals throughout the year, creating opportunities for students to engage with communities from around the world.

Affordable Living and Student-Friendly Lifestyle

Compared with many other major Australian cities, Adelaide offers a more affordable cost of living, making it an attractive destination for international students.

Students can benefit from:

  • Competitive rental accommodation options.
  • Affordable public transport services.
  • Lower everyday living expenses.
  • Easy access to shopping, healthcare, recreation, and student support services.

The compact city layout allows students to travel conveniently between home, study, and work locations.

Safety and Wellbeing

Australia is widely regarded as one of the safest countries in the world, and Adelaide consistently ranks among Australia's safest capital cities. Students can feel confident living and studying in an environment that prioritises safety, wellbeing, and community support.

Students have access to:

  • High-quality healthcare services.
  • Emergency assistance and support services.
  • Student counselling and welfare support.
  • Safe and reliable public transport networks.

Hawkesbury Business School is committed to supporting the safety and wellbeing of all students throughout their studies.

Employment Opportunities While Studying

International students may be eligible to work in Australia in accordance with their visa conditions. Working while studying can help students:

  • Gain valuable Australian workplace experience.
  • Develop professional and communication skills.
  • Build industry networks.
  • Supplement living expenses.

Adelaide offers employment opportunities across a range of sectors including hospitality, retail, administration, customer service, aged care, construction, and business services.

Industry Connections and Career Development

Studying in Australia provides access to valuable industry networks and career development opportunities. Students can benefit from:

  • Industry-relevant training.
  • Practical learning experiences.
  • Networking opportunities.
  • Career guidance and support.
  • Exposure to Australian workplace expectations.

These experiences enhance employability and help graduates transition successfully into the workforce.

Cultural, Sporting and Entertainment Experiences

Adelaide is known as Australia's Festival City and hosts internationally recognised events throughout the year, including:

  • Adelaide Fringe
  • WOMADelaide
  • Adelaide Festival
  • Tour Down Under

Students can also enjoy museums, galleries, live music, sporting events, restaurants, and cafés that contribute to Adelaide's vibrant lifestyle.

Improve Your English Language Skills

Living and studying in an English-speaking environment provides an excellent opportunity to strengthen English language proficiency. Daily interactions with classmates, trainers, employers, and community members help students develop confidence in speaking, listening, reading, and writing English.

Strong communication skills are highly valued by employers and can significantly enhance future career prospects both in Australia and internationally.

Begin Your Journey with Hawkesbury Business School

Choosing to study in Adelaide offers more than a qualification—it provides an opportunity to gain internationally recognised skills, experience a multicultural lifestyle, build professional networks, and create lifelong memories.

At Hawkesbury Business School, we are committed to supporting students in achieving their educational, personal, and career aspirations while enjoying everything Adelaide and Australia have to offer.

Safety Information

Students are encouraged to familiarise themselves with important safety information relating to:

  • Personal safety
  • Public transport safety
  • Home and accommodation safety
  • Fire safety
  • Sun protection
  • Water safety
  • Emergency services

For comprehensive information, students should visit the Australian Government's Study Australia website.

Working While You Study

Working while studying helps students to realize their potential and develop crucial professional skills

Gain Valuable Work Experience While Studying

Studying in Adelaide provides international students with an excellent opportunity to gain practical work experience while completing their qualification. Working while studying can help students develop valuable employability skills, build professional networks, gain insight into Australian workplace culture, and support their living expenses.

Adelaide's growing economy offers employment opportunities across a variety of industries, including:

  • Hospitality and tourism
  • Retail and customer service
  • Administration and office support
  • Aged care and community services
  • Construction and trades
  • Logistics and warehousing
  • Information technology and business services

Many students secure part-time employment in Adelaide's vibrant hospitality precincts such as Rundle Mall, Adelaide Central Market, the city centre, and popular coastal areas such as Glenelg Beach.

Work Rights for International Students

International students holding a valid Student Visa (Subclass 500) may work in Australia in accordance with the conditions attached to their visa.

As of current Australian Government regulations, eligible student visa holders can generally work:

  • Up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods.
  • Unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks and holiday periods.

Eligible family members accompanying a student may also have work rights subject to visa conditions.

Students and their family members must not commence employment until the student has formally commenced their course in Australia.

Students are encouraged to regularly check visa conditions through the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs to ensure ongoing compliance.

Obtaining a Tax File Number (TFN)

Before commencing employment in Australia, students should apply for a Tax File Number (TFN). A TFN is issued by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and is required for taxation and employment purposes.

A TFN application can be completed online through the Australian Taxation Office website.

Having a TFN helps ensure:

  • Correct taxation of earnings.
  • Access to tax refunds where applicable.
  • Compliance with Australian taxation requirements.

Understanding Your Workplace Rights

Australia has strong workplace laws designed to protect employees and ensure fair treatment in the workplace.

International students have the same workplace rights and protections as Australian workers, including:

  • Minimum wage entitlements.
  • Safe working conditions.
  • Fair working hours.
  • Protection from discrimination and exploitation.
  • Access to leave entitlements where applicable.
  • Protection from unfair treatment or underpayment.

Students should familiarise themselves with their workplace rights and responsibilities before accepting employment to ensure they are treated fairly and lawfully.

Finding Employment in Adelaide

There are many resources available to assist students in finding employment opportunities in Adelaide.

Common job search platforms include:

  • SEEK
  • Indeed Australia
  • CareerOne
  • Jora

Students may also find employment opportunities through:

  • Local businesses and employers.
  • Recruitment agencies.
  • Professional networking events.
  • Industry contacts and referrals.
  • Hawkesbury Business School support services and student networks.

Many Adelaide employers value international students for their cultural diversity, multilingual abilities, and willingness to develop new skills.

Orientation and Student Support

As part of the orientation program at Hawkesbury Business School, students will receive information designed to help them successfully adjust to life and study in Adelaide.

Orientation activities include information on:

  • Living and studying in Australia.
  • Student support services.
  • Workplace rights and responsibilities.
  • Health and safety requirements.
  • Emergency procedures and incident reporting.
  • Public transport and local services.
  • Academic expectations and course requirements.
  • Important dates and study schedules.

Students will also have the opportunity to meet trainers, staff members, and fellow students, helping them build valuable connections and support networks from the beginning of their studies.

Building Your Career While Studying

Working while studying is more than just earning an income. It provides opportunities to:

  • Develop professional communication skills.
  • Gain Australian workplace experience.
  • Improve English language proficiency.
  • Build confidence and independence.
  • Establish professional networks.
  • Enhance future employment prospects.

For example, a Diploma of Leadership and Management student may gain customer service experience in Adelaide's retail sector, while a Project Management student may develop transferable workplace skills through administrative or project support roles.

These experiences can strengthen a student's resume and improve employability both in Australia and internationally.

Hawkesbury Business School Commitment

Hawkesbury Business School encourages students to maintain a healthy balance between study and employment. While part-time work can provide valuable experience, students should ensure that employment commitments do not negatively impact their academic progress and attendance requirements.

Our team is committed to supporting students throughout their educational journey and helping them make informed decisions about employment, study, and life in Adelaide.

Important Information

Students are encouraged to refer to official Australian Government resources for the latest information regarding:

  • Student visa work conditions.
  • Workplace rights and entitlements.
  • Employment opportunities.
  • Taxation requirements.
  • Fair Work protections.

Understanding these requirements will help students enjoy a safe, rewarding, and successful study experience in Adelaide.

To find out more, you can contact the Department of Home Affairs. Visit the following website to find out more about working in Australia, including how to find a job.  

https://www.studyaustralia.gov.au/english/employability 

http://www.seek.com.au 

http://www.indeed.com.au 

Student Visas

Applying for a Student Visa

Once you have successfully completed the enrolment process with Hawkesbury Business School, you will receive an Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE). This document is required to apply for an Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500).

Students may lodge their visa application independently or seek assistance from a registered migration agent. Further information is available from the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs.

More information about how to apply for a visa can be accessed here: 

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-finder/study

Visa Conditions

As an international student, you must comply with the conditions of your student visa throughout your stay in Australia. Key requirements include:

  • Maintaining satisfactory course progress and active enrolment.
  • Complying with student visa work restrictions.
  • Maintaining valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
  • Notifying Hawkesbury Business School of your Adelaide residential address and any changes within 7 days.
  • Completing your course within the duration specified on your eCoE.
  • Remaining with your principal education provider for the first six months of study unless an approved release is granted.

Living and Studying in Adelaide

Adelaide is recognised as one of Australia's most affordable and student-friendly cities, offering excellent public transport, quality healthcare, and a safe learning environment. Students studying in Adelaide can easily access key city locations such as Rundle Mall, Adelaide Central Market and Glenelg Beach while enjoying a balanced lifestyle and high-quality education experience.

Important Reminder

Failure to comply with student visa conditions may affect your visa status and your ability to continue studying in Australia. Hawkesbury Business School encourages all students to regularly review their visa obligations and seek advice if they are unsure about any requirements.

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

Health Insurance for International Students

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is a mandatory health insurance requirement for all international students studying in Australia on a Student Visa. Students must maintain valid OSHC for the entire duration of their stay in Australia, including while studying in Adelaide.

OSHC helps cover the cost of essential medical services, including:

  • General Practitioner (GP) consultations
  • Hospital treatment and emergency care
  • Prescription medicines (subject to policy conditions)
  • Ambulance services (depending on the provider and policy)

Several Australian health insurance providers offer OSHC, including:

  • Bupa Australia
  • Medibank
  • Allianz Care Australia
  • nib OSHC
  • ahm OSHC

OSHC can also cover eligible dependants, such as spouses and children, who accompany the student to Australia.

Healthcare Services in Adelaide

Adelaide offers excellent healthcare facilities, with medical centres, pharmacies, and hospitals conveniently located throughout the city. Students living or studying near the Adelaide CBD can easily access healthcare services in and around Rundle Mall and surrounding suburbs.

Important Information

Maintaining valid OSHC is a condition of your Student Visa and helps ensure access to quality healthcare while living and studying in Australia. Students should arrange their OSHC before arriving in Adelaide and ensure their policy remains active throughout their studies.

For further information about OSHC and other optional insurances visit https://www.studyinaustralia.gov.au/English/Live-in-Australia/Insurance

Accommodations

Finding Suitable Accommodation

Before arriving in Adelaide, students are encouraged to explore accommodation options that suit their lifestyle, preferences, and budget. Adelaide offers a range of affordable accommodation choices and is recognised as one of Australia's most cost-effective capital cities for international students.

Common accommodation options include:

  • Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA)
  • Shared houses and apartments
  • Homestay with local families
  • Private rental properties
  • Short-term accommodation such as hotels and hostels

Popular student accommodation precincts include the Adelaide CBD, North Terrace, City West, and suburbs such as Mawson Lakes and Plympton, which offer convenient access to educational institutions and public transport.

Accommodation Search Resources

Students can explore accommodation opportunities through:

Purpose-built student accommodation providers in Adelaide include:

  • Scape Adelaide Central
  • Yugo Adelaide City
  • UniLodge Metro Adelaide

Important Considerations

When selecting accommodation, students should consider factors such as safety, affordability, proximity to campus, access to public transport, and local amenities. Choosing suitable accommodation can help students settle comfortably into life in Adelaide and focus on achieving their academic goals.

Advancing Your English Skills

Strong English language skills are essential for academic success, workplace communication, and everyday life in Australia. Adelaide provides a supportive environment for international students to develop their English proficiency both inside and outside the classroom.

Students can improve their English by:

  • Participating actively in class discussions and group activities.
  • Practising English in everyday situations such as shopping at Adelaide Central Market or interacting with the local community.
  • Reading Australian newspapers, books, and online resources.
  • Listening to podcasts, radio programs, and watching English-language media.
  • Joining community groups, sporting clubs, and cultural events across Adelaide.
  • Accessing English language support services and online learning resources.

Adelaide also offers free English language support programs through local libraries and community organisations, helping students build confidence in speaking, listening, reading, and writing English.

Free English Language Improvement service

Unique Student Identifier (USI)

A Unique Student Identifier (USI) is a permanent reference number issued by the Australian Government that creates an online record of your nationally recognised training and qualifications. All students undertaking vocational education and training (VET) in Australia must have a USI.

Students can apply for a USI before or after arriving in Adelaide and should provide their USI to Hawkesbury Business School as soon as possible to enable enrolment , verification and reporting requirements to be completed.

Benefits of a USI include:

  • Access to your training records and results online.
  • A lifelong record of nationally recognised qualifications.
  • Easy access to academic transcripts when applying for employment or further study.

Students can create a USI through the Australian Government USI website.

Apply USI https://www.usi.gov.au/students/get-a-usi

Pre-enrolment Information

Welcome to Hawkesbury Business School

Thank you for considering Hawkesbury Business School (HBS) as your education provider.

Before you apply to Hawkesbury, please read our comprehensive pre-enrolment information carefully. This guide covers important topics including course details, fees, refund policies, student support services, and your rights and obligations as a student.

Key points to review before enrolling:

  • Course structure, duration, and delivery mode
  • Tuition fees, material fees, and payment schedules
  • Refund and cancellation policies
  • Work placement requirements (for applicable courses)
  • Attendance and course progress requirements
  • Complaints and appeals procedures

By enrolling at Hawkesbury, you agree to comply with all policies and procedures outlined in the Student Handbook and pre-enrolment documentation.

International Student Handbook

The Hawkesbury International Student Handbook is your essential guide to studying at our college. It contains detailed information about academic policies, student support services, campus facilities, and living in Sydney.

The handbook covers:

  • Enrolment and orientation procedures
  • Academic integrity and assessment policies
  • Student support and welfare services
  • Attendance and course progress monitoring
  • Deferral, suspension, and cancellation policies
  • Privacy and personal information handling

All enrolled students receive access to the current Student Handbook. Contact info@hbschool.edu.au or visit www.hbschool.edu.au to request a copy before applying.

Download International Student Handbook

Ready to Apply?

Contact our admissions team to start your application today.

Contact Admissions