FAQ

How big is Townsville?

The combined cities of Townsville and Thuringowa have a total population of approximately 160,000, most within the main urban area. Generally, most parts of the urban area can be reached within 10 to 15 minutes, however the City of Thuringowa includes a rural and semi-rural area stretching up the coast for 50 km and including a number of small beachside communities. The city of Townsville stretches south for approximately 30km and also includes rural and beachside communities.

Where and what is North Queensland?

North Queensland is the region set along the Queensland coast from approximately 150 km south of Cairns to approximately 150 km south of Townsville covering some 350 km of coastline facing the Coral Sea and the Great Barrier Reef. It includes the world's largest island National Park, Hinchinbrook Island, the Palm Group of islands and Magnetic Island. It runs inland for approximately 300 km and includes the cities of Townsville, Thuringowa, and Charters Towers, plus the Shires of Burdekin, Dalrymple, Hinchinbrook and Cardwell. It has an overall population of approximately 215,000 and an amazing level of biodiversity. For more information click here www.townsvilleonline.com.au

What is the weather like in Townsville?

Townsville is in the dry tropical zone along with most parts of North Queensland, however the Shires of Hinchinbrook and Cardwell are in the Wet Tropics area. Townsville has a short wet season (summer) from November to March with the day temperatures above 30° C and moderate to high humidity. Townsville has a long dry season (winter) from April to October with the day temperatures averaging 26° C and low humidity. Overall, Townsville is considered to have one of the most pleasant topical climates in Australia. For more information click here www.bom.gov.au/weather/qld/townsville/

What are the English-language requirements for students?

At James Cook University (JCU), English-language requirements vary on a degree by degree basis. The university website www.jcu.edu.au provides all information on English language requirements. If you do not meet these requirements there is always the opportunity of attending the university's English Language Centre or Townsville International English School and take a course appropriate to your needs.

As a general guide, to study at the Barrier Reef Institute of Technical and Further Education you would need a minimum score of 5.5 on International English Language Testing System (IELTS). For information on IELTS visit their web site at www.ielts.org

Schools require minimum levels of English language competency and students not meeting individual institutions requirements can always undertake a English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) through the English Language Centre www.elc.jcu.edu.au, to bring their English language skills up to the required standard.

Can I work in Townsville and what work is available?

Yes, international students can apply to work up to 20 hours during semester and unlimited hours during their vacation period. If you have family staying with you they are eligible to work up to 20 hours per week for the term of their visa. A wide range of casual and part-time work is available, mainly in the tourism and hospitality industry. JCU offers a service to employers for advertising job vacancies to students. How do I apply for a student visa? You will need to apply for a student visa appropriate to the type of study you intend to undertake. For more information on the types of student visas and how to apply go to www.immi.gov.au/study

Can I bring my family with me?

Family members may accompany you to Australia and be included in your application for a student visa. There are certain requirements each individual needs to meet such as undergoing a medical examination and holding health cover insurance. For more information about bringing your family to Australia go to www.immi.gov.au/study

What accommodation is available?

Students can access accommodation in Townsville relatively easily. At JCU there is on campus facilities while many students with off-campus sharing houses or apartments. Most secondary schools have excellent boarding facilities with all meals provided and high levels of pastoral care. The other option for secondary school students is homestay with local families. Short-term accommodation is available through units, hostels and homestay. For information on accommodation at JCU go to www.jcu.edu.au/office/accom

Can I open bank account?

Yes, you can open a bank account but Australian banking regulations require that this is done in person. To open an account you will need your passport and proof you are studying in Australia. At JCU there is a Uni Credit Union which offers a wide range of services specifically designed for university students. Banking facilities are available in shopping centres throughout the Townsville and Thuringowa metropolitan areas and automated teller machines (ATMs) are available for transactions on a 24-hour basis.

What transportation is available for getting around in Townsville?

Public transport in Townsville and Thuringowa is provided by SunBus who provide services throughout the metropolitan area. As nearly all of Townsville is flat, bicycles are a popular form of transport for students and many locals and the city has an excellent network of safe and scenic bicycle tracks.

What medical services are available?

The Townsville Hospital is located next to the JCU campus and there is also a University Medical Centre - UniHealth Medical at the same location. All holders of a student visa, with the exception of Norwegian and Swedish citizens, must pay for Overseas Health Cover (OSHC) and are given a Medibank student card to use when going to the doctor. This entitles students to a private health insurance discount for their stay in Australia. Holders of other types of visas need to make their own arrangements for health cover in Australia. Pre-Departure Information helps you organise your arrival. Your education institution will provide you with detailed information regarding what you will need for your education activities and to settle in over the first few days and weeks.

There are some things that are of particular importance which you need to thoroughly check prior to leaving your home country. These are:

• Educational qualifications. Bring the originals but leave photocopies at home and bring photocopies of all other relevant documents.
• Driver's license. If you have a valid driver's license for your home country, it is probably best to also get an international driver's license for use in Australia.
• Medical records. It is best to have a copy of your medical records in case you need any treatment during your time in Australia.
• Student visa. You will probably need a student visa to study in Australia for any length of time and for information on what type of visa you need and how to obtain it go to www.immi.gov.au
• Family or spouse visa. If you require your spouse or other family members to accompany you, then they will also need visas. These visas can take up to four months to process.
• Dress. Townsville has a dry tropical climate and for most activities, casual dress is quite acceptable. As the temperature rarely drops below 10°C, light cotton clothes are generally the best option. Dress is very casual with most students wearing clothes such as open sandals, shorts, light skirts and T-shirts at University & TAFE. Schools will inform students about their dress requirements, however in most cases a uniform is required.
• Appliances. If you intend to bring a notebook computer or any other appliances, keep in mind that Australia operates on a 240 V electrical system and you may also need an international plug adapter.
  

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