Wellbeing in Australia: A Comprehensive Overview
When studying in Australia, it’s crucial to maintain your health and wellbeing. There are also certain health-related requirements you must meet to study in Australia.
Most international students in Australia must hold Overseas Student Health Cover for the duration of their stay, also known as OSHC. OSHC is a compulsory health insurance scheme that helps to cover any medical expenses that may arise during your stay. This insurance covers a range of medical services, such as visits to your GP, specialist services, hospital stays, prescribed medications, and emergency ambulance trips. It is important to understand that OSHC may not cover some services, such as certain specialist treatments and non-prescription medications. Understanding your specific policy is important to ensure you are properly covered.
Your OSHC provider can also help you find a doctor. They may share a list of recommended providers, or their website might even have a 'find a doctor' resource to assist you in finding your nearest practitioner. You can also consult the Healthengine website for help in finding a doctor in Australia.
Mental health is another important part of healthcare. As an international student, if you're feeling homesick or stressed, remember that there are resources available to you. Your OSHC covers visits to a GP, who can refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist if needed. Many education providers also offer free or discounted counselling services to students. Head to your institution’s website to see what mental health services are available.
The Australian College of Applied Psychology Clinic also offers free group and individual mental health and wellbeing supports to international students.
Alternatively, if you are experiencing serious issues, such as thoughts of self-harm, you can reach out to Lifeline anytime. Lifeline offers crisis counselling via phone, text or online chat. If you or a person you know is having a mental health emergency and are in immediate danger, call 000 straight away.
