Health

Your wellbeing is important. Throughout your time in Australia it is important to look after yourself, know how to stay healthy and where to get help if you need it. Staying healthy improves your study and quality of life.

Health advice for international students
For many international students, studying and living in Australia can often involve adapting to a new culture and way of living.
Being away from family and friends, and working hard to complete your studies can be difficult. It is important to look after yourself so you stay healthy and safe throughout your stay.

1. Look after your health.
Take time to take care of your health. This includes taking care of your emotional and physical, such as eating right, getting lots of sleep, catching up with friends and having fun. Staying healthy will help your studies.

2. If you are sick or concerned you may have a health problem, visit a General Practitioner (GP) first.
In Australia a General Practitioner is a doctor who works in offices in the community, not in hospitals. They treat colds and flu’s, general health issues such as diabetes, and minor injuries. You should only seek help in a hospital emergency room if you are in a life-threatening situation and have a health emergency.
If you go to a hospital emergency department and it is not an emergency, you will be asked to wait a long time (several hours) to be seen by a doctor. You will be seen once people who need emergency care are treated. If you ARE in an emergency situation and you think you need an ambulance, phone Triple Zero (000) immediately.

3. HealthDirect Australia is a health advice telephone line, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They provide expert advice. Call HealthDirect Australia on 1800 022 222 (calls are free from landline telephones, although charges may apply from mobiles).
Another option is to visit your local chemist or pharmacy, to talk with the pharmacist about minor illnesses and medicines. They can help to answer any questions you might have, and suggest what to do next.

4. Understand your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and how to use it.
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is insurance to help international students with the cost of medical and hospital care in Australia. Remember to take your OSHC card with you to all medical appointments.