These laws help ensure that you have access to:
that can help you achieve your goals
when working and studying part-time on a student visa
when buying any goods or services.
Here are some ways you can benefit from Australian law:
The Australian Government requires every education provider in Australia to have
Students studying in Australia on a student visa can only study government-registered courses that meet national quality standards. Visit Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses Overseas Students (CRICOS) for a list of these courses.
The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000 and National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students 2018 require all CRICOS registered education providers to follow strict rules about student support, information and processes, including access to the Tuition Protection Scheme (TPS) - see below.
The Australian Government appoints an independent advocate called an Overseas Student Ombudsman. They can help you with any issues or complaints about private schools, colleges, institutes and universities in Australia.
If you are studying at a public (Government) education or training provider, you can get help from an Ombudsman in the Australian state or territory you are studying. These are independent complaint handling organisations.
Find out more about your work rights and entitlements as an international student working part-time whilst studying.
If you have paid for your course, but your university, TAFE, RTO or school can’t deliver (or finish) your course, the Tuition Protection Service (TPS) can help! The TPS can help you with tuition fee refunds and find you a different provider to finish your studies.
Australia has consumer protection laws to protect the rights of Australian consumers, including international students.
If you have a problem with a product or service you bought or want to buy, you can contact your local state and territory consumer protection agency for consumer help.
They can provide: