Life in Australia

Life in Australia

What is it like to live and study in Sydney? Find out about the Australian way of life and imagine yourself as a student at Charles Sturt University.

If you are seriously thinking about learning in another country, you'll have hundreds of questions about what it is like and will you fit in?

Trust us, it is amazing. So while we can't answer everything, here are a few talking points to give you a taste of what to expect from a real Australian study experience.

Culture and lifestyle

Australian people are friendly and welcoming. We are a multicultural country, with 29% of our population born overseas and more than 260 languages spoken in Australian homes.

Clubs and societies offer you the chance to meet and network informally with other students. If you have an interest in something and a club does not exist, you could consider starting your own group as a way to meet people with a similar interest.

Climate

Sydney has a clean and pleasant climate throughout the year (ranging from 17c in winter to 26c in summer) so whether getting around by bike, making the most of the beaches or exploring this fantastic city on foot, you’re sure to fall in love with the sunny climate (over 300 days per year!).​

Getting around

Located in North Sydney, the campus is conveniently connected to a great public transport system and road network, making it accessible to commuters travelling from all over Sydney and the surrounds by car, bus, train, ferry or bike. 

CBD – approx. 5km

  • 10 to 15 minutes by car 
  • 12 to 25 minutes by public transport 
  • 25 to 30 minutes by bike 
  •  40 to 60 minute walk 

Chatswood – approx. 6km

  • 15 to 20 minutes by car 
  • 25 to 35 minutes by public transport 
  • 30 minutes by bike
  • Parramatta – approx. 28 km  
  • 35 to 45 minutes by car 
  • 40 to 55 minutes by public transport 

Health and safety

Australia is generally a safe place to live and our health system is considered one of the best in the world. At Charles Sturt, we have a range of services and information available to help keep you healthy and happy. If you need medical attention in Australia, your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) should cover:

  •  Visits to the doctor
  • Some hospital treatment
  • Ambulance cover
  • Limited pharmaceuticals (medicines)

Sydney is student-friendly city, ranked #9 on the QS Best Student Cities 2023 list and is a popular city for international students due to its safety, employment opportunities, affordability and desirability.​

​Along with being student-friendly, Sydney is a relaxed, safe and friendly city to study and travel ranked #4 in the economist’s ‘Safe Cities Index 2021’. ​