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September 2026
Moving overseas for university can be exciting, but safety is naturally an important consideration for students and their families.
So, is Australia safe for international students?
From choosing accommodation to travelling around a new city, knowing where to get help can make adjusting to life in Australia easier.
This guide covers what international students should know about safety in Australia, including emergency services, university support, accommodation, transport, working and practical safety tips.
Is Australia a Safe Place to Study?
Australia is a popular study destination for international students, with universities and education providers located across major cities and regional areas.
International students have access to Australian emergency services, while universities and other education providers generally offer services to support students during their studies.
However, being in a generally well-supported study environment does not mean students should ignore everyday safety precautions.
Students should familiarise themselves with:
What Is the Emergency Number in Australia?
The main emergency number in Australia is Triple Zero (000).
You should call 000 when there is a life-threatening or serious emergency requiring:
Calling 000 is free.
When you call, you will be asked which emergency service you require. If you do not speak English confidently, you can tell the operator which language you speak and assistance with translation can be arranged.
International students should save important non-emergency contacts as well, including their university’s campus security number and their OSHC provider’s contact details.
Are Australian University Campuses Safe?
Australian universities generally have services and procedures designed to support students on campus.
Depending on the university, these may include:
The services available vary between institutions.
When you first arrive, check your university’s website or student portal and save the relevant emergency and security numbers on your phone.
You should also learn where key student support offices are located rather than waiting until you need assistance.
Is Public Transport Safe for International Students?
Public transport is an important part of student life in many Australian cities.
Depending on where you study, you may use trains, buses, trams, ferries or a combination of different services.
Students travelling at night should take normal precautions. For example:
If you are new to the city, familiarise yourself with your route during the daytime before travelling alone late at night.
How Can International Students Find Safe Accommodation?
Choosing appropriate accommodation is another important part of staying safe while studying in Australia.
Students may choose:
Before paying a deposit or signing an agreement, research the property and understand what you are agreeing to.
Be particularly cautious about accommodation advertised online at unusually low prices.
Avoid transferring money simply because someone claims that a property is in high demand. Where possible, verify the property, understand the rental arrangement and make sure you know who you are dealing with before making payments.
Location also matters. Consider your travel time to university, access to public transport and the surrounding area when comparing accommodation.
Are International Students Protected at Work?
International students who work in Australia have workplace rights.
The Fair Work Ombudsman states that international students have the same workplace entitlements and protections under the Fair Work Act as other employees, regardless of migration status.
These protections include minimum pay and workplace conditions.
Students should be cautious if an employer:
- Refuses to provide a payslip
- Pays below the applicable legal entitlement
- Pressures them to work in inappropriate conditions
- Asks them to return part of their wages
- Discriminates against, bullies or sexually harasses them
- Claims the employer can personally cancel their visa
An employer cannot cancel your Australian visa. Visa decisions are made by the Australian Government.
Understanding your employment rights before starting a job can help protect you from exploitation.
What About Health and Medical Safety?
International students generally need Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) while studying in Australia on a Student Visa.
OSHC can help cover certain medical, hospital, pharmaceutical and emergency ambulance expenses, depending on the policy.
If you become sick, you may be able to visit a local doctor or medical centre rather than going directly to a hospital emergency department for a non-emergency issue.
Students should learn how their OSHC works before they need medical treatment.
Save your membership details and insurer’s contact information on your phone and check what medical services are available near your accommodation and university.
What Safety Risks Should International Students Be Aware Of?
International students should take the same kinds of everyday precautions they would when living independently in any unfamiliar city.
Some situations to be aware of include:
Online scams
Be careful with unexpected calls, emails and messages asking for money or personal information.
Do not provide passwords, banking information or identity documents to someone simply because they claim to represent a government agency, university or business.
Rental scams
Be cautious about sending deposits for accommodation you have not properly verified.
Personal belongings
Keep your passport, bank cards and important documents secure. Consider storing digital copies of essential documents separately.
Beaches and outdoor activities
Australia’s outdoor lifestyle can be a major part of the student experience, but students should follow local safety warnings.
At beaches, pay attention to signs and conditions and swim in patrolled areas where possible.
Australia can also experience extreme heat, bushfires, storms and other weather-related hazards depending on the location and season.
Follow advice from local authorities during severe weather or emergencies.
What Should You Do if You Feel Unsafe?
If you are in immediate danger or facing a serious emergency, call 000.
For situations that are not immediate emergencies, the appropriate service will depend on what has happened.
You may be able to contact:
Students should not be afraid to ask for assistance.
Knowing your university’s support services before an issue occurs can make it easier to know where to turn.
How Can You Stay Safe While Studying in Australia?
A few practical habits can make adjusting to a new country easier.
Keep your phone charged, learn your local transport system and save important emergency contacts.
When going somewhere unfamiliar, plan your route in advance and let friends or housemates know where you are going when appropriate.
You should also protect important documents such as your passport, visa information, Confirmation of Enrolment and insurance details.
Most importantly, learn how Australian systems work. Understanding your rights as a student, tenant and employee can help you recognise when something is not right and find appropriate support.
Start Your Australian Study Journey with AUG
Studying abroad means adapting to a new academic environment, culture and way of life.
Australia provides international students with access to emergency services, university support and legal protections, but students should also understand how to stay safe and where to seek assistance when needed.
AUG Student Services can help you explore Australian universities and courses, prepare your application and understand important aspects of studying and living in Australia before you depart.
Planning ahead can help you feel more prepared and confident as you begin your Australian study journey.
