Health

Maintaining good health is important when studying overseas.

Australia has one of the world's best health systems. Modern, well-equipped hospitals, medical centres and doctors' offices are located in Sydney and throughout NSW.

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

Why do I need OSHC?

Health insurance, called Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), is compulsory for international students studying in Australia. It covers you for certain medical costs if you need to visit a doctor or go to hospital.

You should check the OSHC policy carefully, including the details of what is covered. Extra cover is available for an additional fee.

Serious medical problems should be treated before you come to Australia, because standard OSHC generally does not cover pre-existing medical conditions.

How do I arrange OHSC?

DEC International will arrange standard OSHC cover for you with the medical fund insurer, Medibank Private. We invoice you for the insurance payment with your tuition fees.

You can arrange OSHC yourself following the steps on the Medibank Private website

How much does OSHC cost?

In 2013, the cost for standard OSHC is A$498 per year per single student and $A1,752 per year for a student with a family.

Health cover cards will either be posted to your Australian postal address directly from Medibank Private or via DEC International. This process may take a few weeks. If you need medical attention before you receive your membership card, you should pay for the service and keep all receipts. You can then claim a refund from Medibank Private when issued with your card.

Where can I find out more about OSHC?

Go to the Medibank Private website

Other health information

Cigarettes and alcohol

Buying cigarettes and alcohol is legal for people over the age of 18, but it is illegal to buy it on behalf of someone who is under 18. You may be asked to show proof of your age with a driver's licence, student identification card or similar when you buy alcohol or cigarettes.

Illicit drugs

Buying, selling, possessing or using drugs such as marijuana, amphetamines and opiates is illegal in Australia. If you are caught, you could face severe penalties, including fines, imprisonment and even deportation. If your student visa is cancelled, you may find it difficult to get a visa to return to Australia in the future.

Medication

If you need to bring any special medication from your home country into Australia, bring your medical records and prescriptions with a letter from your doctor. For more information, visit the Travellers section of the Therapeutic Goods of Australia website

More information about topics related to managing your health in Australia can be found on the Study in Australia website. Some of these topics include:

  • nutrition
  • counselling and mental health
  • access to health services (e.g. doctors, emergencies)
  • prescription medication
  • dentists

You should also visit the NSW Health Department website

Health

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DEC International or an authorised agent.

 

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New South Wales

NSW

NSW lies on the east coast of Australia.
Sydney is the state's capital and the largest
city in Australia.

To find a school go to School locations or read about TAFE NSW Institute locations.

 

ESOS Framework

The Australian Government wants international students to have a safe, enjoyable and rewarding study experience in Australia.

Read more about the ESOS Framework.

 

Agent search

DEC International has a worldwide network of representative agents who can help you complete and submit your application to study.

These representatives must provide you with accurate and up-to date information and advice regarding programs, courses, application procedures, living and studying in Australia. They can also assist with your visa application. If you wish to apply through an agent it is recommended that you use an agent on this list. If you choose to use another agent who is not published on this list, then TAFE NSW is not responsible for the accuracy of the advice provided to you.

Find an agent

TAFE NSW English Language Centre agents

TAFE NSW English Language Centres also engage agent representatives and details of these agents can be found on the English Language pages for each of the listed Institutes. These agents may recruit students for intensive English language courses but not for any other courses at TAFE NSW.

If you have any concerns with regard to the service provided by our agent representatives, please contact us.