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Australia by Andrew Cameau

Australia by Andrew Cameau

Your Identity in Australia

Below you will find information that may help you in planning for your Education Abroad experience. We know it’s not possible to encompass all of your intersecting identities into one page, but we hope resources listed can serve as a helpful starting point. You are your own best expert. We invite you to meet with your Program Manager or contact our Access and Inclusion Coordinator at inclusionabroad@colorado.edu to discuss any questions or concerns you may have.

 

Disability Accommodations

Individuals with disabilities can and do participate in Education Abroad programs, but you may find accessibility and accommodation in different locations to be very different from the United States. For example, in Australia, anticipate being a pedestrian and/or taking public transport more frequently than you may be accustomed to at CU. While every student’s experience is unique, check out our Disability or Different Abilities while Abroad page for general information, questions to consider, and next steps for studying abroad with a disability and click through the list below for resources relevant to Australia and your host university.
 

Resources for Australia

External Resources

 

Host University Resources (for exchange programs only)
Monash's Disability Support Services operates in a similar manner to Disability Services here. They arrange learning access support for students who have a medical condition, injury, illness or disability that impacts their ability to study. This support can involve such arrangements as alternate exam arrangements, advocacy and advice to lecturers, note-taking, access to assistive technology on campus, learning development support, ergonomic furniture etc.
  1. In order that arrangements can be determined and organized, submit the Health & Wellness Worksheet on your MyCUAbroad checklist and a get letter from CU’s Disability Services that documents your condition and needs and the support that they provide for you.
  2. Indicate on your Monash application that you require support of a disability and register for ongoing support. 
  3. Once you've registered you will have a confidential discussion with the student equity and disability support team. 

UniMelb's Disability Services operates in a similar manner to Disability Services here. By registering with their office, students who have a disability can gain access to the adjustments and services needed to succeed.

  1. Before You Leave: In order that arrangements can be determined and organized, submit the Medical & Disability Needs Abroad form on your MyCUAbroad checklist and a get letter from CU’s Disability Services that documents your condition and needs and the support that they provide for you. Gather all other required supporting documentation.
     
  2. When You Arrive: 

Inclusion and Disability Services at USyd operates in a similar manner to Disability Services here. By registering with their office, students who have a disability can gain access to the adjustments and services needed to succeed.

  1. Before You Leave: In order that arrangements can be determined and organized, submit the Medical & Disability Needs Abroad form on your MyCUAbroad checklist and a get letter from CU’s Disability Services that documents your condition and needs and the support that they provide for you. 
     
  2. When You Arrive: Arrange an appointment with the Disability Services Officer as soon as possible and bring the letter from CU’s Disability Services. You can call (+61 2 8627 8422) or visit the office on Level 5, Jane Foss Russell Building (next to City Road, on the Camperdown/Darlington Campus). You can also email Disability.services@sydney.edu.au to set up a Zoom appointment. 
The University of Wollongong’s Support Services operates in a similar manner to Disability Services here. They arrange learning access support for students who have a medical condition, injury, illness or disability that impacts their ability to study. This support can involve such arrangements as alternate exam arrangements, advocacy and advice to lecturers, note-taking, access to assistive technology on campus, learning development support, ergonomic furniture etc.
 
  1. Before You Leave: In order that arrangements can be determined and organized, submit the Medical & Disability Needs Abroad form on your MyCUAbroad checklist and a get letter from CU’s Disability Services that documents your condition and needs and the support that they provide for you.
     
  2. When You Arrive: Arrange an appointment with the Disability Liaison Officer as soon as possible and bring the letter from CU’s Disability Services. You can call (4221 3445) or visit the office on Level 3 Building 11 (UniCentre) next door to the ITS building and the library

The UNSW Student Equitable Learning Services (ELS) operates in a similar manner to Disability Services here. They arrange learning access support for students who have a medical condition, injury, illness, or disability that impacts their ability to study.
 

  1. Before You Leave: In order that arrangements can be determined and organized, submit the Medical & Disability Needs Abroad form on your MyCUAbroad checklist and a get letter from CU’s Disability Services that documents your condition and needs and the support that they provide for you.
     
  2. When You Arrive: Arrange an appointment with the Equity Officer as soon as possible and bring the letter from CU’s Disability Services. Appointments can be made by contacting (02) 9385 4734 or email: els@unsw.edu.au

Gender & Gender Identity

You may find that the level of acceptance of your gender identity differs between Australia and the United States. In Australia, attitudes towards gender identity are generally becoming more inclusive and accepting, with efforts being made to promote equality and respect for diverse gender identities. Check out our Gender & Gender Identity resource page, which provides a list of questions, tips, and general resources.. Additionally, you can find specific resources related to Australia and your host university by clicking through the list below.


Resources for Australia

External Resources

 
Host University Resources (for exchange programs only)

Sexual Orientation

Acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community can vary by culture, and you may find your host culture more or less welcoming of your sexual orientation than what you experience in the U.S. Australia has made significant progress in recognizing and protecting the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. In 2017, the Australian government legalized same-sex marriage, following a national survey where the majority of Australians expressed their support for marriage equality. This milestone legislation marked a significant step towards inclusivity and acceptance of diverse sexual orientations. In fact, Sydney annually hosts their Pride Parade (called Mardi Gras) which is the biggest WorldPride festival in the world! While everyone’s experience is unique to them, check out our Sexual Orientation & Sexuality resource page for a list of questions, tips, and general resources to explore. Click through the list below for resources specific to Australia.

 

Resources for Australia

External Resources
 
Host University Resources (for exchange programs only)

Racial & Ethnic Identity

Students of different ethnic and racial backgrounds may encounter unique challenges transitioning from life in the U.S. to life as a student living abroad. This experience can vary based on your race/ethnicity as well as your host community. Like the U.S., systemic racism is prevalent in Australia, particularly impacting indigenous and migrant communities. Australia is a predominately white country. Students of color may also see a lack of representation and experience microaggressions.  While everyone has different experiences, our Racial & Ethnic Identities Abroad page provides general resources to help you prepare for your time abroad. Check it out in addition to the resources below, specific to studying in Australia.


Resources for Australia

External Resources
 
Host University Resources (for exchange programs only)

Socioeconomic Status

U.S. students are generally perceived as coming from wealth, which is due to how Americans are typically portrayed in media. If you do not feel that this perception matches your identity, this may be a jarring experience at first. A good resource for you will be friends & local program staff who can help you navigate this process and provide tips on the typical cost of goods where you are studying. See the Budgeting page of our Accepted Student Guide for tips on lowering your personal expenses while abroad.


Resources for Australia:

 

Resources for Families

Do your parents, family, or support systems have concerns about you studying abroad? Have them contact our office to speak to a Program Manager, who can provide further information, address concerns, and connect them with additional resources. Refer them to our Diversity & Identity Abroad page.

Education Abroad is committed to serving a culturally diverse community of students and is dedicated to providing inclusive international experiences for students from all backgrounds. Please contact our Access and Inclusion Coordinator at inclusionabroad@colorado.edu with any questions or concerns.

Last Updated June 2023