Australia is a land of opportunities. Often referred to as “Lucky Country” — in reference to author Donald Home’s book with the same title published in 1964 — living in Australia offers many perks and benefits to migrants and international students.

The Land Down Under is one of the most prosperous nations in the world, offering an abundance of economic opportunities to its citizens and foreigners. It is home to bountiful natural resources, a diverse collection of flora and fauna and opportunities to carve oneself a successful future.

Another unique factor about living in Australia is its strategic position as an educational hub for international students. Home to 43 world-class universities, there’s nothing wasted when you invest in an education in Australia. The Oceanic nation has attracted an influx of talented foreigners to its shores, particularly international students from all corners of the world.

The Pacific Explorer makes its way past the Opera House to dock at the overseas passenger terminal on April 18, 2022, as Australian authorities lifted a ban on cruise ships after relaxation in Covid 19 restrictions. (Photo by SAEED KHAN / AFP)

According to the Australian Department of Education, Skills and Employment, there were 440, 129 international students enrolled in Australia for the January-March 2022 period. A huge chunk of the foreign student population include students from India, who make up nearly 20% of the international student population in Australia. There were 72, 642 international students from India in Australia for the Q1 2022 period.

• If you’re an Indian student who is thinking about relocating to the Land Down Under, here are nine important aspects of living and studying in Australia that you should know before making your big move.

Studying and living in Australia: What to know

Academic reputation 

Australia is home to 43 universities, with five of them ranked among the top 50 universities reported in the latest QS University rankings survey.

From the recently published Impact Rankings 2022 survey, the University of Western Sydney came out on top alongside two other universities (University of Technology, Sydney and La Trobe University), which were ranked in the top 20 institutions which are on the right track to meeting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The rankings spotlights institutions that are working hard to tackle global issues such as gender inequality, quality education for all, climate change, and achieving peaceful societies and economic growth.