Start Your Journey at Griffin College
Everything you need to know about courses, fees, applications, and student life in Brisbane — all in one place.
Life in Australia
Brisbane is a friendly, multicultural city with warm weather, affordable living, and endless things to do. Here is what you need to know to settle in and thrive.
Getting Around Brisbane
Practical tips to help you settle in from day one
- TransLink buses cover the entire city
- Use the go card for cheaper fares
- Download the TransLink app for real-time tracking
- Night buses run on weekends until 3am
- City network has 8 lines from Central Station
- Trains run every 15 min during peak hours
- Student concession fares available
- Airport train takes ~20 min from Central
- Ferries run along the Brisbane River
- Scenic route between South Bank & UQ
- Same go card works on ferries
- Great way to explore the city on weekends
- Brisbane has 1,000+ km of bikeways
- CityCycle hire stations across the CBD
- City campus is very walkable
- Helmets are legally required when cycling
Get your go card on arrival
Available at 7-Eleven, newsagents, and train stations. Load $10 minimum to activate. Saves up to 30% vs cash fares.
Useful Websites
Brisbane Weather
Subtropical climate — warm year-round with distinct wet and dry seasons
Summer
Dec – Feb
25–32°C
Hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms. Light, breathable clothing recommended.
Autumn
Mar – May
18–27°C
Warm and dry — the most pleasant season. Perfect for outdoor activities.
Winter
Jun – Aug
10–21°C
Mild and sunny. Bring a light jacket for evenings — rarely gets cold.
Spring
Sep – Nov
17–28°C
Warming up with occasional showers. Great time to explore parks and gardens.
Tip: Always carry a compact umbrella during summer — Brisbane's afternoon storms can arrive quickly. Sunscreen is essential year-round as UV levels are very high even on cloudy days.
Brisbane Local Events & Highlights
Make the most of your time in one of Australia's most vibrant cities
AnnualRiverfire Festival
SeptemberBrisbane's iconic fireworks spectacular over the river. Free to watch from South Bank or the Story Bridge.
AnnualEkka — Royal Queensland Show
AugustQueensland's biggest annual event with rides, food, animals, and entertainment. Students get discounted entry.
WeeklySouth Bank Lifestyle Markets
Every weekendArtisan food, crafts, and live music along the riverfront. A great way to meet locals and explore Brisbane culture.
AnnualBrisbane Festival
SeptemberThree weeks of world-class theatre, music, dance, and circus performances across the city. Many free events.
Disclaimer: The events listed above have no affiliation with Griffin College. Dates, times, and details may change — please check official event websites for the latest information. This content is provided for general information purposes only.
Useful Websites
Popular Student Neighbourhoods
South Bank
Culture & Dining
Museums, galleries, beach pool, and the best restaurant strip in Brisbane.
Fortitude Valley
Nightlife & Food
Brisbane's entertainment hub — live music, bars, and diverse international cuisine.
West End
Bohemian & Chill
Artsy, multicultural neighbourhood with great cafés, bookshops, and weekend markets.
New Farm
Parks & Cafés
Leafy riverside suburb with beautiful parks, specialty coffee, and a relaxed vibe.
Student Support Services
Australia offers a wide range of support services for international students. The Australian Government, state governments, and education providers all work together to ensure you have access to help for your health, safety, and wellbeing.
On-Campus & Local Support
Griffin College offers specialist support services to help you successfully complete your studies. If you have any special needs, please contact Griffin College our team is here to support you.
Legal Rights & Protections
International students in Australia are protected by Australian law. You have the same workplace rights as any Australian worker, and there are laws to protect you from exploitation. The ESOS Framework ensures you receive the education you paid for.
Health & Wellbeing
Access medical services through your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Griffin College offers free a mental health support, counselling, and wellbeing programs specifically for students. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you need help
Disability Support
If you have a disability, Griffin College can support you. Please contact Griffin College before you arrive to discuss your individual needs and arrange appropriate accommodations at your own cost.
Beach Safety
Australia has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, but they can also be dangerous if you are not prepared. Understanding beach safety is essential for every student.
Swim Between the Flags
Always swim between the red and yellow flags. These mark the safest area supervised by lifeguards. If there are no flags, do not enter the water.
Know How to Escape a Rip
If caught in a rip current, stay calm and float. Do not swim against it. Signal for help and swim parallel to the beach to escape.
Sun Protection
The Australian sun is intense. Wear SPF 50+ sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially after swimming.
Never Swim Alone
Always swim with a friend or in a group. Let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return.
Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water to the beach. Dehydration happens quickly in the heat and can lead to serious health issues.
Check Beach Conditions
Check local weather, surf reports, and warnings before heading out. Visit Beachsafe for real-time safety info.
Emergency Number
In an emergency, dial 000 for police, ambulance, or lifeguard assistance. This is a free call from any phone in Australia.
Policies & Procedures
Access Griffin College's official policies and procedures, including academic integrity, complaints and appeals, privacy, and student conduct guidelines.
Immigration Advice Disclaimer
Griffin College does not provide immigration advice or assistance. Immigration advice can only be provided by a registered migration agent or an Australian legal practitioner.
If you require help with a visa application, you should consult a registered professional. You can find a registered migration agent through the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA) or seek assistance from a qualified legal practitioner in Australia.