Before deciding to bring your family to Australia, it’s important to think about:

• additional living expenses (e.g. accommodation, food and clothing)
• the effect on you and your studies if a family member is unhappy in Australia
• language and communication issues if a family member doesn't speak English
• cultural adjustment to Australia
• work opportunities in Australia and possible disruption to a family member’s career.

If you bring children, you’ll also need to consider:

• childcare
• school fees
• adjustment to a different education system
• responsibility for caring for children while you’re studying.

If you can, it’s a good idea to come to Australia on your own for at least the first six months so you can settle into your studies and look for permanent accommodation.

Childcare

The cost of childcare can be expensive and long waiting lists are common. Carefully consider childcare options and how much they cost. If you know where you’ll be living and the type of care that will best suit your needs, we recommend that you put your child’s name on the waiting list as soon as possible.

All children enrolling in long day care, occasional care or family day care must be immunised. The list of required vaccinations can be found on the Australian Immunisation Register.

Primary and secondary school

If your child is going to a Victorian Government (public) primary or secondary school in Australia, you’ll need to complete the Department of Education’s online Dependant Application Form. Familiarise yourself with the programs and tuition fees before arriving in Australia.

If you’re an international student enrolled in a doctoral (PhD) or a master’s by research program, your children may be exempt from fees at public schools. If you’re an Australia Awards Scholarship student, your children are also exempt. Other international students will need to pay tuition fees at public schools.

If your child goes to a private school, you’ll pay tuition fees.