Public Holidays and Long Weekends in Australia & NSW: Full List

This is the full list of public holidays in Australia and New South Wales (NSW). NSW has 10 official days off, making it one of the Australian states to get the most public holidays.

National public holidays in Australia are New Year's Day, National Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Anzac Day, Christmas Day and Boxing Day. All other public holidays such as Labour Day are individually declared by the state and territory. NSW has 10 official days off, making it one of the Australian states to get the most public holidays. Anyone staying in NSW over the holiday period can rest assured that there will be plenty of things to see and do.

Public Holidays in Australia and NSW

1. New Year’s Day

Observed on 1 January, New Year’s Day is the first day of a new year in the Gregorian calendar used in Australia and many other nations. Its geographical position close to the International Date Line makes Australia one of the world’s first countries to welcome the New Year. In Sydney, there is a huge fireworks display at the start of the New Year. Over one million people are estimated to watch the display at the Sydney Harbour. Smaller displays are organised in other towns and cities.

2. National Day

To celebrate Australia’s National Day (26 January), Australians of all ages and classes get involved in celebrations around the beaches, backyards and parks. In Sydney, people gather at Sydney Habour to join in a big show with a series of extremely attractive events. You also can’t miss the spectacular firework performance here – the most impressive performance of the day and the national pride.

3. Good Friday

Good Friday is a Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary. It is also known as Great Friday, Holy Friday, Black Friday or Easter Friday. Though there are exemptions, shops in Australian states (except Northern Territory and the ACT) are required to be closed during Good Friday. All schools and universities close on this day in Australia. Though most of businesses are closed on Good Friday, many recreational businesses – for example, the Sydney Royal Easter Show, open on Good Friday because among non-religious families, this is a popular day to enjoy such activities.

4. Easter

To welcome Easter 2017, Scots English College held a small competition. Students have to guess how many eggs are in the jar. They have to pay $1 for a guess and the winner gets money and the eggs as well. See more photos here.

The days of Easter vary annually depending on the Western Christian calendar. In Australia, Easter Sunday is celebrated as the day Jesus rose from the dead after being crucified. On Easter Sunday, some people go to church and have hot cross buns (a sweet fruit bun with a cross on top) for breakfast. Children exchange Easter eggs usually made of chocolate. The eggs are available in an egg shape; some are in the shape of rabbits.

5. Anzac Day

Anzac Day falls on 25 April every year and marks the anniversary of the landing by Australian and New Zealand troops at Gallipoli (Turkey) in 1915. It has been a public holiday in Australia since 1927. ANZAC is formed from the initial letters of the Australia and New Zealand Army Corps. It is the first big military action fought by Australians and New Zealanders, and the first big nationhood demonstration by both countries. The ceremony begins at dawn on 25 April to mark the time of the original Gallipoli landing. The services are held at war memorials around the country, usually including two minutes of silence, the Last Post bugle call, and then marches of veterans and their families.

Continue to enjoy your reading at: A Complete List of Public Holidays in Australia and NSW | Scots English College

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Two Australian Attractions Listed in the Best of 2017 by Lonely Planet

If you are looking for some of the most exciting and new things to do in 2017, then travel to Australia. Australia has two destinations that make Lonely Planet’s top 10 best new openings this year.

Many people consider Australia as the first choice of study destination. Not all, this country boasts the world's top dream destination for travel. Whether you’re looking for a fantastic adventure, mesmerizing journeys, amazing nature, great food and wine, fascinating events and culture or relaxing islands and beaches, there is nothing like traveling in Australia. 

Australia has two two destinations that make Lonely Planet’s top 10 best new openings this year. These are the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail in South Australia and Pinky’s Eco Retreat and Beach Club on Rottnest Island. Ranked in Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail.

Ranked 3rd, the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail opened last October offering a five-day 61 km trek around this botanically unique island’s most spectacular landscapes. Pinky’s Eco Retreat and Beach Club is listed as 8th best newly openings this year. It is set to open in 2017 on the environmentally-sensitive Rottnest Island known for its wildlife and beaches. The retreat will come with 29 four and five-star eco-tents with ensuites, 10 affordable ‘family’ tents and 35 budget tents. It will also have a licensed bar and restaurant area with amazing views over the ocean to Perth.

Other attractions also on the list are Museum of the American Revolution (Philadelphia); Lava, Hvolsvöllur (Iceland); Musées Yves Saint Laurent Paris and Marrakesh (France and Morocco); Akagera National Park (Rwanda); American Writers Museum (Chicago); a 141-day cruise on the Viking Sun from Miami to London; Belmond Andean Explorer (Peru); Design Society (Shēnzhèn, China).

Like this? Then you'll love these places to explore in Sydney.

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Top 14 Reasons Why You Should Study in Australia

Australia attracts more and more international students to study in the country. According to the Department of Education and Training, the number of international students studying in Australia broke the record in 2016 with 554,179 international students enrolled in courses in Australia, an increase of over 10% from 2015. Below we will specify some reasons why study in Australia.

1. Simplified student visa framework (SSVF)

The SSVF has been designed to make the process of applying for a student visa simpler to navigate for genuine students, deliver a more targeted approach to immigration integrity and reduce red tape for business. For detailed information, please read here: SIMPLIFIED STUDENT VISA FRAMEWORK.

2. English is the national language

Australia English is the main language in Australia. That means students have opportunities to enhance their English not only through English courses but also through real-life interaction. Their English can be improved though taking part time work while on student or working holiday visas.

3. Great opportunities to study

There are an impressive number of study options for overseas students with over 1,200 institutions and 22,000 courses in Australia to choose from. Australia has the third highest number of international students behind the UK and US. For overseas students who need English language training before commencing higher level studies in Australia or who wish to improve their English language skills for work or life back in their home countries, they can choose quality ELICOS courses solely dedicated to international students.

4. 6 cities ranked in top 50 best student cities in the world

According to the most recent QS Best Student Cities 2016, Australia has 6 cities ranked in top 50 best student cities in the world. These are Melbourne 2nd, Sydney 4th, Canberra 17th, Brisbane 18th, Adelaide 26th, and Perth 35th. With a rich culture and sport activities, Australia has attracted students from all around the world because of its cosmopolitan environment. The country is listed in top 10 happiest countries in the world according to the World Happiness Report, 2016.

5. Work while studying allowed

Working while your study helps complement your study and living experience as well as helping you to pay for your living expenses. International students in Australia on student visas can work up to 40 hours per fortnight during their study period, and there is no limit on the number of hours an overseas student can work during holiday periods from their study.

6. Scholarship opportunities are plentiful

There are many scholarship opportunities with about 200 million dollars provided annually for international students by the Australian Government.

7. Unsullied nature

An unspoiled natural environment is one of best attractions of Australia. This country is home to golden sandy beaches, tropical rainforests, incredible deserts and snowy mountains. There are over 500 national parks and 19 world heritage-listed sites in Australia.

8. Great climate

Australia is blessed with four distinct seasons throughout the year. In spring, the air is fresh, and the natural scenery is very lively and colorful with millions of flowers blooming. Summers in Australia are hot and glorious, and winters are mild. Autumns come with rolling mists and glorious golden leaves.

9. Multicultural society

People from over 100 countries have migrated to this country, making Australia one of the world's most culturally diverse countries. Australia’s multicultural nature means overseas students are readily accepted by others.

10. Safe country

Australia is one of safest countries to live, study and work. According to Mercer’s 2016 Quality of Living Survey on over 450 cities, Australia has 6 cities ranked in top 50 safest places in the world. These are Sydney 10th, Melbourne 15th, Perth 21st, Adelaide 27th, Canberra 28th and Brisbane 36th. According to Mercer global mobility practice leader in Australia-New Zealand Lorraine Jennings, “Australian cities illustrate a stable infrastructure, increased availability of housing on the city fringe and lifestyle choices that are particularly appealing to younger generations.”

11. A great opportunity to combine study and travel

Australia is not only one of best destinations to study, but also boasts the world's top dream destination for travel. Whether you’re looking for a fantastic adventure, mesmerizing journeys, amazing nature, great food and wine, fascinating events and culture or relaxing islands and beaches, there is nothing like traveling in Australia.

12. Great destinations, exotic animals

Australia is blessed with unlimited natural gifts that you should experience at least once in your lifetime. Some tourist attractions in this country include 19 World Heritage sites including the Great Barrier Reef, Bondi Beach, the Daintree Rainforest and Sydney Opera House. Iconic attractions in Sydney are a huge draw for many students from all over the world. This largest city in Australia is home to 37 beaches spreading over a large area, historic landmarks, award-winning recreational centers and various cultures. Australia is also home to some interesting, rare animals like the kangaroo, wombat and dingo.

13. Multicultural food and local specialties

Australia is one of best countries in the world for food. Aside from multicultural food from all over the world, Australia is famous for local specialties like kangaroo and crocodile meat.

14. Increased employment opportunities

Finding a job is easier for Australian graduates in just about all parts of the world. Australian qualifications are recognized by employers and top-notch educational institutions in many countries. Also, ELICOS courses with business language components can provide an advantage for students when they return to their home country and are job-hunting.

Cr: Why do some students want to study abroad in Australia? - Quora

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Anzac Day 2017: Important Things You Should Know

It will be the 102nd anniversary of the Gallipoli landing and the 101st anniversary of Anzac Day. The words ‘Lest We Forget’ are often spoken this day. For international students in Australia, this will be a valuable opportunity to learn more about Australian history and to enjoy the atmosphere of this day of remembrance. 

1. What is Anzac Day?

Anzac Day falls on April 25th every year and marks the anniversary of the landing by Australian and New Zealand troops at Gallipoli (Turkey) in 1915. It has been a public holiday in Australia since 1927. ANZAC is formed from the initial letters of the Australia and New Zealand Army Corps. It is the first big military action fought by Australians and by New Zealanders, and the first big nationhood demonstration by both countries.

2. Who were the Anzacs?

Image via The Australia

The Anzacs were originally meant to refer to men who were at the landing and fought at Gallipoli, but it later meant any Australian or New Zealand soldier in World War I (WWI). And now Anzacs have been those who lost their lives in all Australian military and peacekeeping operations.

3. What is Anzac Day’s motto?

Its motto is ‘Lest We Forget’. This phrase is uttered after the reading of the Ode of Remembrance, a poem called ‘For the Fallen’ (by Laurence Binyon in 1914). The main, the fourth and middle verse of the poem is quoted at Anzac Day ceremonies and other remembrance ceremonies.

“They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning,
We will remember them.”

4. What is the Anzac spirit?

The Anzac spirit is what is focused on in the Anzac Day. It was put into words by Sir William Deane, Australia's Governor-General on ANZAC Day 1999: 

“Anzac is not merely about loss. It is about courage, and endurance, and duty, and love of country, and mateship, and good humour and the survival of a sense of self-worth and decency in the face of dreadful odds.”

5. Why is Anzac Day important? 

Read more at: Here’s Everything You Need to Know about Anzac Day (Australia, 2017) | Scots English College

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Study in Australia for International Students: 9 Things to Know

Below are 9 things every international student needs to know when studying in Australia.

Australia attracts more and more international students to study in the country because of its great education opportunities and simplified student visa framework. According to the Department of Education and Training, the number of international students studying in Australia broke the record in 2016 with 554,179 international students enrolled in courses in Australia, an increase of over 10% from 2015.

To make the most of their student life in Australia, overseas students need to know:

1. About the country

Australia is rated as the best place to live by 6,000 people under 35 in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the Americas. Let’s discover more about this country through facts, foods and festivals.

2. Scholarships and other financial aid options

When studying abroad in Australia, students can use these financial aid opportunities to cover their tuition fees and other costs. They are Government financial support, Scholarships, Student loans for overseas students, Combining many forms of financial aid. Scholarships available for international students in Australia range from government funded to university-specific and external scholarships. Please click here for an overview of the scholarship options you can consider. For the other 3 sources of financial aid, please refer to here.

3. Accommodation

Once they have enrolled into their course and organised a student visa, international students will book their flights and find somewhere to live. Finding accommodation needs some research, including types of accommodation, how much they cost, tenancy rights in Australia, etc. Scots will help you start the process by considering the key points about finding accommodation in Australia.

4. Lifestyle

Freedom, equality, mutual respect and peace are the core values of this multicultural country. Thus, Australians are known for being friendly. No matter where they live, Australians are good at helping others whenever required. When living here, express yourself and say exactly what you mean. Also, you can find it not too difficult to cover the living cost during your study in Australia with a budget plan and money saving options. The laid-back culture in Australia will drive you to unwind at open spaces such as parks and beaches. Take some time to relax with your friends.

Helpful guide for you:

A Cultural Guide for International Students in Australia

5. Work rights and entitlements

Read more at: Study in Australia: 9 Things Every International Student Needs to Know | Scots English College

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Scholarships for International Students in Australia: Tips and Resources

It is definitely worth searching for scholarship opportunities as it supports students with their educational and living costs. Below Scots will give some tips and resources so that international students can boost their chances of becoming a scholarship recipient.

Scholarships may cover the full cost or part of your tuition fees or other costs such as living expenses or accommodation. As most international scholarships are very competitive, you need to consider all the information and take care of each and every steps required for your application.

Universities in Australia

There are more than 40 accredited universities in Australia: 40 public universities, two international universities and some smaller private universities. You can check here for the list of universities in Australia.

Some highly-ranked universities include the University of Melbourne, the University of Sydney, Australian National University and the University of Queensland.

What types of scholarships are available in Australia?

Scholarships available for international students in Australia range from government funded to university-specific and external scholarships. Here is an overview of the scholarship options you can consider.

When you research scholarship opportunities:

Read more at: Scholarships for International Students in Australia: Tips and Resources | Scots English College

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What Are Places to Explore in Sydney?

There are a range of places to visit in Sydney. Let's see!

There is an abundance of breathtaking landscapes in Sydney that you should explore and enjoy, namely The Sydney Habour, Sydney Opera House, Taronga Zoo, Darling Habour, Sydney Habour Bridge, Sydney Tower, Sydney Aquarium, Queen Victoria Building, Luna Park Sydney, and much more.

Image via: Scots English College

Sydney is a paradise for the world’s sun and sand lovers. The hustle and bustle of this urban city blends smoothly into the idyll of Sydney’s beaches. Bondi is the most iconic with stretching, golden sands and awesome surfing conditions. Manly beach is one of Sydney’s most famous Northern beaches.

Manly beach is one of Sydney's most famous Northern beaches. Scots' students had such a great time visiting this beautiful beach. For more photos, please click here.

There is nothing more wonderful than hanging out with your friends in Sydney to enjoy cuisines in restaurants and supermarkets made up from many nationalities. Many kinds of food are available for you to choose, from Japanese, Korean to Vietnamese to Spanish and Moroccan. Also, some iconic Australia foods you should try when visiting here: Aussie barbecue, Chicken Parmigiana, Barramundi, Kangaroo Meat, Crab Sticks, Burgers, Vegemite, Lamingtons, Meat pies, Rolls, Tim Tams, Fish & Chips, Damper, Anzac biscuits, Pavlova.

Moreover, Sydney is home to stylish fashion from luxurious brands to the mass-produced. Some famous centres for shopping and recreation that can be named here are Westfield Sydney Central Plaza, Queen Victoria Building, The Strand Arcade, Mid-City Shopping Centre, The Rocks Foodies Market.

There is also free stuff in Sydney. These include galleries and exhibitions (Art Gallery of NSW, Museum of Contemporary Art, White Rabbit), going sightseeing (the Harbour Bridge, Observatory Hill, Mrs Macquaries Point), having a cycling tour alone or in a group, having free gigs, visiting libraries, monthly community festivals, discovering Sydney’s markets, a festival every quarter (the Sydney Festival, Art and About and Crave Festival).

There is a high appreciation for creativity in this city. Some great areas to admire arts in Sydney are Newtown, May Lane, St Peters, Glebe, Art Gallery of NSW, Museum of Contemporary Art and White Rabbit.

(Via What are places to explore in Sydney? - Quora)

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