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Brisbane, QLD

  • City Info
    City of Brisbane, QLD

    Capital of Queensland. Third largest city in Australia.
    Brisbane was first established in 1825. It is named after Sir Thomas Brisbane.

    Location

    Brisbane is located in South East Queensland.

    Brisbane, QLD CBD

    The Central Business District (CBD) stands inside a bend of the Brisbane River.

    Seasons

    Winter
    Jun to Aug
    10˚C - 22˚C

    Spring
    Sep to Nov
    13˚C - 25˚C

    Summer
    Dec to Feb
    18˚C - 30˚C

    Autumn
    Mar to May
    15˚C - 25˚C

    Time

    Queensland remains on Eastern Standard Time
    (GMT + 10) all year around

    No Smoking

    Smoking is not permitted in Queensland within 5 metres of non-residential entrances, and between 5 to 10 metres at beaches, sporting stadiums, near children's playgrounds, at restaurants, bars or clubs either indoor or outdoors $220 on-the-spot fines apply for breaches.

    Post Office

    General Post Office (GPO) Mon to Fri – 7:00 am to 6:00 pm
    Suburbs* Mon to Fri – 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
    Some open Saturday – 9:00 am to 12 noon

    Population

    2.3 million people

    Money

    Notes or Bills
    $5, $10, $20, $50, $100

    Coins
    ¢5, ¢10, ¢20, ¢50, $1, $2

    Education providers

    CRICOS registered institutions for international students: 8 Public Universities, 6 University English Centres, 72 Vocational Colleges, 39 English Language Centres, 55 Private Schools, 27 Public Schools

    Electricity

    240/250 volts/50 Hz

    Weather

    Subtropical Climate

    Shopping

    Mon-Wed: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
    Thu (Suburbs) & Friday (CBD): 9:00 am to 9:00 pm
    Saturday: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
    Sunday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm

    Banks

    Mon-Thu: 9:30 am to 4:00 pm
    Friday: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
    Some bank branches open Saturday morning 9:30 am to 12 noon.

  • Explore

    The Brisbane City Council offers numerous activities that are fun and free such as interesting classes at the city and neighbourhood libraries (good way to meet the locals!), yoga, swimming, food and cultural festivals, and fresh produce markets to name a few. Do check their event page www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/whats-on

    Brisbane has all the attractions and facilities of a cosmopolitan city. Brisbane provides world-class educational facilities, mixed with a vibrant and active lifestyle.

    MAJOR ATTRACTIONS

    Brisbane is a friendly multicultural river city that offers the best of bustling urban life while having many relaxing escapes within short driving distance.

    Throughout the year, you can get involved in a number of annual festivals and events that take place in the city, including the Brisbane Seafood and Wine Festival, the Mercedes Benz Fashion Festivals, the Brisbane International Film Festival and the Valley Fiesta.

    For those looking for adventure, Brisbane offers a range of exciting experiences including motorcycle tours, adventure parks, hot air ballooning, river cruises, kayaking, skydiving and go-karting, as well as various walking and mountain biking tracks and national parks.

    (Courtesy of Trade and Investment Queensland) 

     

    OTHER POINTS OF INTEREST

    Considered a cultural hub when it comes to arts and entertainment, Brisbane features a full calendar of opera, ballet, musicals, concerts, art exhibitions, and a range of theatres to choose from. This includes a moonlight cinema allowing you to make the most of Brisbane’s pleasant evening weather.

    EXPERIENCE AND LIFESTYLE IN BRISBANE

  • Transport

    Brisbane Airport

    http://www.bne.com.au
    http://www.bne.com.au/to-from-brisbane-airport/transport-options
    C 15 Kms approx. to CBD
    30 minutes (allow more time for peak traffic hours)

    Getting around

    It is important to learn about all the public transport modes around Brisbane and South East Queensland including the bus, train, CityCat, CityHopper, taxi and CityCycle. The cheapest and more convenient way to go around is by purchasing the GoCard, a rechargeable pre-paid electronic card.  You “touch on” at the start of the trip and “touch off” when you finish your journey.  Brisbane is divided in different zones (1 to 5). The closer your destination, the cheaper the fare

    Useful tips

    • GoCard is Translink’s electronic ticket that lets you travel on all bus, train and ferry services.  For information visit www.translink.com.au
    • Students doing VET (Vocational programs) and Higher Education (University courses) can obtain discount in public transport.  See more www.translink.com.au/tickets-and-fares/concessions
    • If you are entitled to Student discount, carry your student ID card with you at all times.
    • If you are travelling late at night on weekends, find out if there is a night route that goes near your destination as some routes are not scheduled on weekends.
    • Disabled and elderly people as well as pregnant women have priority seating.
    • Do not eat, drink or smoke in public transport or in taxis.
    • Free transport – The Free Loop Bus operates every 10 minutes around the city on weekdays between 7 am and 6 pm (see red, blue and green routes in the “Inner Brisbane City Map” at the reverse of our printed guide map (reverse side)  or visit this link www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/traffic-transport/public-transport/buses/city-centre-free-loops,
    • Always make sure that your GoCard is topped up with money.

    Forms of transport

    For the bus, train and CityCat the fare you pay for the trip depends on how far you travel (zones) and also the time of the day. If you want to save money, travel off-peak times between 8.30 am and 3.30 pm, and after 7.00 pm to 3.00 am the following day on weekdays. Go to the Translink website and look for “discounts and ways to save” under “fares and tickets”.  Always keep a bus/train/citycat/cityloop time table in your bag or download the App.  Remember that times for the above services change on weekends and designated holidays.

    WALKING

    is a healthy alternative for transport. When crossing a street, wait for the green pedestrian icon. Do not walk or run over a red pedestrian light.

    CITYCYCLE

    Brisbane new public bike hire service is available to everyone 17 years of age and older. For more details on the network, subscription and usage fees, visit their website  www.citycycle.com.au.

    RIDE A BIKE

    To cycle you must wear a helmet at all times and follow the road rules.

    BUSES

    Make sure you hale the bus so the driver stops to pick you up! Always touch on at the beginning of the trip and then off at the end of trip before you leave the bus.

    TRAINS

    Each train line has a distinctive colour in the map and on the screens at the station to help you find your way easily.

    CITYCAT

    Another great way to get around if you live near the river or just a fun way to explore Brisbane. You can take the CityCat or the ferry.

    CITYHOPPER

    This is a FREE service that runs from the city to Southbank, Eagle Street Pier and Kangaroo Point.

    RIDING A MOTORCYCLE

    Always wear a helmet. It is now required by law to have a special motorcycle license for models of a certain size. Check with Queensland Transport.

    DRIVING

    We drive on the left side of the road. To drive in Australia, you need an English translation of your driver’s license. If you are going to drink alcohol, do not drive.

    TAXIS

    A safe mode of transportation in particular if you have been drinking after a party. You can pay the taxi fare with your credit card if you do not carry cash. Always ask for a receipt.

    Public transport

    Service name: Translink: Bus, Train, Ferry
    Timetable: http://translink.com.au/
    Fares: http://translink.com.au/tickets-and-fares
    Location: 229 Elizabeth Street, Brisbane Qld 4000
    Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8.30am - 4.30pm, Wed 9.30am - 4.30pm
    Service phone: 61 7 13 23 80
    Website: http://translink.com.au/

    Private transport

    Service name: Airtrain
    Timetable: http://www.airtrain.com.au/
    Fares: http://www.airtrain.com.au/fare_calculator.php
    Location: Alpinia Drive, Domestic Airport Station
    Service phone: 61 7 1800 119 091
    Website: http://www.airtrain.com.au

    Interstate transport

    Service name: Queensland Rail
    Timetable: http://www.queenslandrail.com.au/Pages/Default.aspx
    Fares: http://www.queenslandrail.com.au/Pages/Default.aspx
    Opening hours: Callcentre: Mon-Fri 7.15 am - 5.30 pm
    Service phone: 61 7 13 12 30
    Website: http://www.queenslandrail.com.au/Pages/Default.aspx

    Cycling

    Name: CityCycle
    Location: 95 Robertson St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006
    Opening hours: Mon - Fri 8.30 am - 5.30 pm
    Service phone: 61 7 1300 229 253
    Website: http://www.citycycle.com.au

  • Hospitals

    IMPORTANT NOTE:

    International Students must go to Public Hospitals as their Overseas Students Health Cover (OSHC) does not cover expenses in private hospitals.

    Seeking Medical Assistance

    • Carry your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) card with you at all times.
    • When visting the doctor, you will need to pay for their services (some doctors may bulk bill at no cost to you).
    • Keep all receipts so you can obtain reimbursement later.
    • All medical emergencies are covered by your Overseas Student Health Care (OSHC).
    • If you are unable to attend classes due to being sick, you should obtain a medical certificate from your doctor.
    Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital (2 Kms from CBD)

    NORTH SIDE
    07 3636 8111
    Butterfield St HERSTON Qld 4029

    The Prince Charles Hospital (10 Kms from CBD)

    NORTH SIDE
    07 3139 4000
    Rode Road CHERMSIDE, Qld 4032

    Redcliffe Hospital (30 Kms from CBD)

    NORTH SIDE
    07 3883 7777
    Anzac Avenue REDCLIFFE QLD 4020

    Caboolture Hospital (45 Kms from CBD)

    NORTH SIDE
    07 5433 8888
    McKean Street CABOOLTURE QLD 4510

    Mater Adult Hospital (Public) (2 Kms from CBD)

    SOUTH SIDE
    07 3163 811
    Raymond Terrace, SOUTH BRISBANE QLD 4101

    Princess Alexandra Hospital (10 Kms from CBD)

    SOUTH SIDE
    07 3176 2111
    199 Ipswich Road WOOLLOONGABBA QLD 4102

    Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Hospital (30 Kms from CBD)

    SOUTH SIDE
    07 3275 6111
    Cnr Kessels & Troughton Roads COOPERS PLAINS QLD 4108

    Logan Hospital (45 Kms from CBD)

    SOUTH SIDE
    07 3299 8899
    Cnr Armstrong & Loganlea Roads MEADOWBROOK Qld 4131

    Wynnum Hospital (20 kms from CBD)

    SOUTH SIDE
    07 3893 8000
    Whites Road LOTA QLD 4179

    Redland Hospital (25 Kms from CBD)

    SOUTH SIDE
    07 3488 3111
    Weippin Street CLEVELAND QLD 4163

  • Government Offices
    State Library

    Address
    Cultural Centre, Stanley Place
    South Bank QLD 4101

    Opening Hours
    Mon-Sun 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
    (until 8:00 pm Mon-Thu)

    City Library

    Address
    Brisbane Square, 266 George Street
    Brisbane City QLD 4000

    Opening Hours
    Mon-Thu 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
    Sat-Sun 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

    Australian Taxation Office

    Address
    143  Turbot Street
    Brisbane City QLD 4000

    Opening Hours
    Opening Hours:  Mon-Fri 8:30 am to 5:00 pm

    Residential Tenancy Authority

    Address
    Level 23, 179 Turbot Street
    Brisbane City QLD 4000

    Opening Hours
    Mon-Fri 8:30am – 5:00pm

    Dept. of Immigration & Citizenship

    Address
    Ground Floor, 299 Adelaide Street
    Brisbane City QLD 4000

    Opening Hours
    Mon-Fri  9:00 am – 4:00 pm

    Fair Work Ombudsman

    Address
    Level 25, 400 George Street
    Brisbane City QLD 4000

    Opening Hours
    By appointment only

  • Emergency & Assistance

    How to make an International call:
    0011 + Country Code + City Code + Number
    If you don't know your country code, call 1225

    National Phone Codes

    (02) Sydney (NSW) & Canberra (ACT)

    (07) Brisbane & Gold Coast (QLD)

    (08) Perth (WA), Adelaide (SA) & Darwin (NT)

    (04) Mobile (Australia wide)

    (03) Melbourne (VIC) & Hobart (TAS)

    (13 or 1300) Local calls

  • Student Services Directory

    Cricos: 03635G

    Brighton College

    Brighton College is an Australian Registered Training Organisation (RTO) operating under the National Vocational Education and Training (VET) Quality Framework (VQF). This is a regulated framework which is administered by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA). Our details will be located on the National Register for VET.

    Brighton College specialises in Business, Information Technology, Cookery and Hospitality Management training and maintains close professional links to industry within Australia to ensure our training is at the leading edge of industry developments.

    Brighton is committed to providing professional adult education in a relaxed and supportive professional environment whilst developing highly-skilled and job-ready graduates.

    (07) 3123 4911
    Email
    Website
    2, 3/15 Anderson St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006
    View Map

    Cricos: 03020E

    TAFE

    TAFE Queensland has over 180 courses across 15 study areas, ranging from entry level certificates to bachelor degrees. Whether you’re looking to study English in Australia or upskill in another profession, TAFE Queensland has a range of pathway options to help you get the qualifications you need to launch your career. You can view our full selection of courses and study areas below.

    07 3244 5100
    Email
    Website
    66 Ernest Street, South Brisbane Qld 4101
    View Map

    English Courses | Universities | Vocational Education and Training

    Cricos: 02137M

    ILSC

    Connecting the world through language.

    For over 25 years, ILSC Education Group has been delivering quality language education and career training programs using a dynamic approach that responds to student interests, passions and goals.

    Over 50 courses and programs to choose from.

    07 3220 0144
    Website
    Level 1, 232 Adelaide Street, Brisbane, Qld
    View Map

    English Courses | Tutors | Universities | Vocational Education and Training

    Cricos: 02746G

    QAT

    What you do outside the classroom is also very important to us. At QAT we provide our students with activities and excursions where they have the chance to experience the Australian way of life.

    These out of school activities, combined with your learning will create a memorable experience like no other.

    07 3002 0888
    Email
    Website
    Level 4, 333 Adelaide Street CBD Brisbane, Qld 4000
    View Map

    English Courses