10 Fun Facts About Exchange in Australia You Need to Know

Australia is one of the most sought after exchange destinations for Brazilians, and it's no accident! With its paradisiacal beaches, exceptional quality of life and unique study and work opportunities, the country has a lot to offer. If you are thinking of doing an Australian exchange, check out these 10 curiosities that can make all the difference in your planning.

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1. The minimum wage is the highest in the world

One of the first things that surprise Brazilian exchange students is the Australian salary. As of 2024, the minimum wage in Australia is A$24.10 per hour, considered to be the tallest in the world. For comparison, this amount is equivalent to around R$80 per hour worked. If you work the 20 hours per week allowed for students, you can earn approximately A$1,928 per month, or more than R$6,000! This high salary amount allows not only to cover living costs, but also to save and even travel around the country. Professions such as a waiter, barista, and app driver can pay much more than the minimum, especially when they include tips. Do you want to know in detail what are the best jobs in Australia for students? Check out our complete guide with the highest-paid professions and all the tips for getting a good job in the country.

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2. Climate similar to Brazil (but with inverted seasons)

Brazilians adapt easily to the Australian climate, as it is very similar to ours - with the striking difference that the seasons are completely reversed! While we're toasting the Brazilian summer, Australians are experiencing the mildest winter in the south of the country. Australian summer (December to February) brings temperatures that can exceed 35°C in cities like Sydney and Brisbane, while winter (June to August) maintains mild temperatures, ranging between 8°C and 17°C. For many exchange students, this is an advantage: you can escape the Brazilian cold and enjoy wonderful beaches in the middle of December! In fact, December in Australia is a peak season, with festivals, cultural events, and that vacation vibe that combines perfectly with stunning beaches. The Australian climate is also known for its regional variations - the tropical north contrasts with the temperate south, offering diverse climatic experiences in the same country.

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3. Work legally while you study

One of the biggest advantages of the Australian exchange is the legal permission to work while studying. International students can work up to 48 biweekly hours during term time and full time (no time limit) during school holidays. This rule applies to all courses that last 14 weeks or longer. To put it into practice, it is necessary to have a valid student visa and a Tax File Number (TFN), a document that acts as our Brazilian Social Security number for tax purposes. This opportunity is incredible not only to earn extra money and help with living costs, but also to develop your English in real work situations, make professional connections and gain international experience. Many students are able to cover up to 80% of their monthly expenses with part-time work alone, making the exchange much more financially accessible.

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4. World-class education with a different methodology

The Australian education system is recognized worldwide and adopts a radically different approach from the Brazilian model. Here, the focus is on practical learning and direct preparation for the labor market. Forget only expository classes - in Australia, you'll take part in real projects, case studies, and teamwork that simulate professional situations. Australian universities occupy prominent positions in global rankings, with seven of them among the 100 best in the world according to the QS World University Rankings 2025. Australian technical courses (TAFE - Technical and Further Education) are equally impressive, offering practical qualifications in areas such as technology, hospitality, business and health. The teaching methodology values critical thinking, student autonomy, and the immediate application of knowledge, preparing highly qualified and valued professionals in the international market.

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5. International student limit in 2025

A crucial curiosity that directly impacts your planning: starting in 2025, Australia will implement a hard limit of 270,000 international students per academic year. This measure, announced by the Australian Minister of Education, aims to control population growth and guarantee the quality of education. The government will set specific quotas for each institution, making the selection process more competitive. If you're considering starting your studies in 2025 or 2026, it's critical to act quickly to Assess whether it is worth investing in 2025 and secure your spot before the quotas run out. This limitation will also affect the visa process, which may become even more stringent, requiring even more careful preparation of documentation and financial evidence.

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6. Multicultural and welcoming

Australia is genuinely one of the most multicultural countries on the planet, home to people from over 200 different nationalities. In cities like Sydney and Melbourne, you can walk the streets and hear dozens of different languages, sample cuisine from all continents, and participate in cultural celebrations of diverse traditions. This diversity creates an extremely welcoming environment for exchange students, where you won't feel like an outsider, but part of a large global community. The Australian concept of “mateship” (companionship) is one of the cornerstones of local culture, promoting inclusion and respect among all people. For Brazilians specifically, there is a large community already established in every major city, facilitating initial adaptation, but without limiting their total immersion in the local culture. Cultural events, festivals, and celebrations from different communities take place regularly, creating constant opportunities for networking and cultural growth.

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7. Enviable quality of life

With one of the highest human development indices (HDI) in the world, ranking 5th globally, Australia offers a quality of life that impresses even the most demanding standards. The Australian healthcare system is an international benchmark, with Medicare providing basic universal coverage and the Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) ensuring that students have access to quality medical care. The cities are meticulously planned, with abundant green areas, efficient transportation systems, and modern infrastructure. Public safety is a striking differentiator - you can walk quietly through the streets at night and leave your belongings in public areas without worry. The balance between work and leisure is taken seriously, with Australians valuing their free time to play sports, enjoy beaches or simply relax in parks. This lifestyle directly contributes to the well-being of exchange students, allowing them to make the most of their experience.

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8. Strict financial proof

To get an Australian student visa, you'll need to go through one of the most stringent financial proof processes in the world. The government requires you to demonstrate the ability to afford approximately AUD 29,710 per year, which in 2024 amounts to around R$ 105,000. This amount covers basic expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and study materials. Proof can be made through bank statements, letters of sponsorship (from parents), student loans, or a combination of these. It's important to note that this amount is for visa purposes only - actual expenses may vary depending on your lifestyle and location. The government assesses not only whether you have the money, but also whether those funds are rightfully yours and are available for use during your stay. The good news is that, with high Australian salaries, many students are able to support themselves by working legally in the country.

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9. Surf and outdoor culture

Australian culture is intrinsically linked to outdoor activities, with surfing taking a special place in the hearts of the Aussies. With over 35,000 km of coastline and some of the best waves in the world, the country is a true paradise for surfers of all levels. The outdoor lifestyle extends far beyond the beaches: trails in national parks, camping, climbing, and water sports are part of everyday Australian life. In fact, it is common for companies to encourage employees to maintain an active lifestyle, offering flexible exercise hours. The famous Australian “Barbie” (barbecue) is not just a meal, but a social event that takes place on beaches, parks, and backyards, creating perfect opportunities to socialize and make new friends. For Brazilians who already love the beach and outdoor activities, Australia is like a giant playground, where local culture encourages and celebrates this connection with nature.

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10. Watch out for the sun!

Here's a fun fact that could literally save your skin: Australia has the highest UV indices in the world due to its geographical location and the thinnest ozone layer in the region. The Australian UV index often reaches “extreme” levels (above 11) during summer, much higher than on Brazilian beaches. Locals have a mantra: “Slip, Slop, Slap and Wrap” - put on a shirt, apply sunscreen, wear a hat, and wrap yourself up with sunglasses. Factor 50+ sunscreen is practically an everyday item, even on cloudy days, as up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate through clouds. Awareness campaigns start at schools from an early age, and you'll see many Australians wearing UV-protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats. For Brazilians, who are already used to bright sunshine, it may come as a surprise to discover that the Australian sun is even more intense. In fact, many exchange students report that they needed a period of adaptation to get used to this constant need for sun protection.

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Be Easy

A Be Easy you are here to transform your exchange dream in Australia into an incredible and perfectly planned reality! From choosing the ideal course for your objectives to assistance with all visa documentation, through the selection of the best city, type of accommodation and even tips on the best beaches for surfing! Our mission is to make you enjoy every second of this transformative experience without worrying about red tape and logistical details. Contact us today and start planning your Australian adventure with someone who truly understands this incredible destination!

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