Australia is often rated as having some of the safest and most liveable cities in the world. It is a diverse and multicultural country which warmly welcomes international students and migrants, and celebrates the various cultures from which they come. However, like many other countries around the world, Australia is not free from crime. There are certain methods that you can use, to avoid being placed in vulnerable situations, which can prove useful not only in Australia, but anywhere in the world:
~You must not carry large amounts of money with you. While sometimes this may be necessary, you can reduce your risk by hiding your valuables. Take extra care when travelling in the evening, stay in well-lit areas, and, wherever possible, always try to walk with a friend.
~Whatever time you travel, make sure that you keep all music at a low volume on your music device, so that you are still aware of everything going on around you, and can hear if someone approaches you. Using a music player device can be a distraction, as can talking on a mobile phone. You should remain aware of your surroundings at all times.
~The Australian Government has established a student hotline for international students who are concerned about their welfare: 1300 363 079. If immediate help is required, you must instantly call the Australian emergency telephone number: 000.
Every institution takes some safety measures, and many campuses have their own on-site security but, in the end, your personal safety largely is in your own hands and following are some tips to ensure your safety whenever you’re travelling off or on campus:
- Learn the aforementioned emergency number, and the emergency and non-emergency numbers for the campus security office.
- Know where the emergency phones are located on campus.
- Try and attend any seminars on crime prevention that your institution offers.
- Use campus patrol or evening escort programs, which accompany students from one campus location to another
- Always let someone know about your whereabouts, or walk with a friend when possible.
- Stay in well-lit areas after dark and avoid short-cuts through secluded areas.
- Keep your doors locked in the car and at home at all times, and place valuables under the seat or in the boot of your car.
- If you take public transport at night, try to sit close to the bus driver, or in the first carriage of the train.
Australia is an excellent place to live, work and study, but make sure to take all of the necessary basic precautions, and your experience will be extremely fun and fulfilling.