Although Brisbane’s provides word-class education and training, it is still possible that issues may arise from your education institution. Therefore, it is essential that you understand certain laws enacted by the Australian Government, to ensure your rights are protected.
All Australian institutions that accept international students on a student visa are legally required to provide quality courses and meet the national standards for student services and institution facilities.
Some of the main requirements under this framework include the following:
Consumer protection
The ESOS legislation provides consumer protection if a student or institution defaults on the course the student is enrolled in. This protection includes either a refund of course money to the student, or if a refund is not possible, placement into an alternative course through a Tuition Assurance Scheme.
Course information
Institutions must ensure that the marketing materials (such as brochures and handbooks) they provide to international students are accurate and not misleading.
Before offering a Confirmation of Enrolment, the institution must provide you with current and accurate information such as;
- Requirements for acceptance into the course, include English language proficiency, previous work experience or educational qualifications necessary for admittance
- The course content and duration
- The qualification it leads to
- Mode of study and assessment methods
- If course credit may apply
- Campus locations
- The facilities, equipment, learning and library resources available
- Details of any arrangements with another registered provider, person or business that offer your course or part of your course
- Indicative course-related fees, including advice on the potential for fees to change during your course
- Applicable refund policies
- Information of the grounds on which your enrolment may be deferred, suspended or cancelled
- A description of the ESOS framework
- Relevant information on living in Australia, including indicative costs of living and accommodation options
- If you have school age dependants, schooling obligations and options for them
- Student support services
Institutions must support international students in adjusting to study and life in Australia, achieving their learning goals and achieving the learning outcomes of their course.
This includes providing information on arrival of:
- Student support services available to help you adjust to life in Australia
- Legal services
- Emergency and health services
- Facilities and resources
- Complaints and appeals processes
- Any student visa conditions relating to course progress and/or attendance as appropriate