Student Life
There is more to Swinburne and Melbourne than just study.
Melbourne is one of the world’s most liveable cities. It is considered Australia's cultural capital. And a culinary centre (we have a smorgasbord of great restaurants) as well as being home to some of Australia's biggest sporting traditions.
Home to 3.8 million people, the capital of Victoria boasts a mild climate, affordable living costs and an extensive and easily accessed public transport network. There are a multitude of green spaces – parks and public spaces – as well as a rich and layered tapestry of night-time social options.
Because there is always so much happening, you'll be spoilt for choice deciding what to do each weekend.
And with the heart of Melbourne city being a quick 10-minute train ride from our Hawthorn and Prahran campuses, you can easily access the best this city has to offer.
Living in multicultural Melbourne means you can experience a new life in a vibrant city while still enjoying the familiarities of home.
Clubs and Societies
Swinburne Punjabi Club
The Punjabi Club is one of Swinburne's most active student-run organisations – and with good reason.
If you ever find yourself being drawn to loud rhythms and a massive crowd while wandering around campus, chances are it is a Punjabi Club festivity.
Whether it is Vaisakhi, Indian Independence Day or Diwali and Bandhi Chorrh Divas, you can always count on a big and colourful celebration accompanied by delicious food and lots of dancing. Even Swinburne staff like to join in!
The Swinburne Punjabi Club began in 2007 with the aim to represent not only Punjabi culture but all cultures in India. It prides itself on promoting diversity and cultural understanding among different communities through the many events it organises.
Below: The Hawthorn campus Atrium came alive with colour as it hosted this year's Diwali celebrations.
The Swinburne Punjabi Club is just one of the many student-run organisations on campus.
On-campus facilities
Swinburne offers up-to-date technology in a contemporary environment.
We have a range of facilities that are designed to support you and make your life easier.
Wireless network access means that students can simply turn on their laptops anytime, anywhere within a coverage area, and have access to the university network.
As a Swinburne student you will also have access to a large collection of resource material that can be accessed from any of our libraries. With a range of group meeting rooms and quiet areas, students are able to study in conditions that best suit them.
Swinburne Library also has a number of PC labs, including Hawthorn's Late Lab which offers 24 hour, 7 day access.
Project Hub
Designed especially for final-year undergraduate students, this hub is where you can hold team meetings, practise class presentations and study.
Student Services Hub
This seven-storey building will house a learning hub, a multi-faith room, computer labs as well as counselling and medical services. It is due to be completed by the end of 2010.
Sports Centre
The Swinburne Sports Centre is a great place to keep your body active and healthy in between study. It features a gymnasium, offers fitness classes and is home to various sporting clubs. A range of memberships are available at affordable prices.
As a Swinburne student, you also have free access to the swimming pool at the Hawthorn Aquatic and Leisure Centre, located just off Glenferrie Road.
Part-time work
Some students choose to undertake part-time work while studying in Australia. It is an ideal way to add to your skills base and meet new people.
Our Careers and Employment unit can assist you with finding part-time work. Staff run a résumé checking service, workshops and an interview practise service.
Safety
Our students' health, safety and wellbeing is a top priority at Swinburne.
We provide numerous facilities and services to support the safety of all our students. These include:
- Detailed pre-departure and orientation information – Including an information session by Victoria Police about keeping safe in Melbourne.
- Ongoing counselling and support services– We have a dedicated team of International Student Advisers as well as free and confidential counselling
- 24-hour security at all campuses – These include CCTV and a late-night chaperon service to accompany you around campus, to your car or to the train station.
- A free night bus service – You can be dropped off safely in the local area of the Hawthorn, Lilydale and Prahran campuses.
Applying for your visa
Applying for your Australian student visa is one of the biggest tasks you have to undertake before arriving. It's important to get it right.
We have put together a page that explains the process and conditions.
More information
Want something that provides you with general information about living in Melbourne?
Our Swinburne Arrival Guide covers banking, communication, health, leisure, shopping and transport information – all in one handy downloadable pdf document.
