Bringing Your Family to Australia: Information for Students

Studying in Australia can be a rewarding experience, and having a spouse, partner, or children with you can help create a stable and supportive environment. At ACBNT, learners can refer to relevant information about Bringing Your Family to Australia to ensure they are well-prepared for their studies and family arrangements.

Eligibility and Visa Considerations

For students on a Student (subclass 500) visa, eligible dependents may include:

  • Spouse or de facto partner (including same-sex partners)
  • Children under 18 years of age
  • Partner’s children under 18 years of age

Documentation such as marriage or birth certificates, or evidence of a genuine partnership if not married, is required. If dependents are not included in the initial visa application, they may need to apply later as subsequent entrants. Early planning is important to align with visa requirements.

Health and Character Requirements

All dependents must meet Australian health and character requirements, which may include:

  • Medical examinations
  • Police clearance certificates

These requirements are set by the Department of Home Affairs and must be satisfied for the visa to be granted.

Financial Evidence

Students must demonstrate they have sufficient funds to support themselves and any dependents during their stay. This includes housing, food, transport, healthcare, and schooling for children. Authorities assess whether declared funds are adequate for the family size and situation.

Timing for Dependents Joining

Dependents can travel with students either:

  • At the time of the initial visa application: allowing families to arrive together.
  • Later as subsequent entrants: if dependents were declared but not included initially, or new dependents arise (e.g., marriage or birth), they may apply later under a subsequent entrant process.

In both cases, supporting documents are required, and ACBNT can issue enrolment confirmation letters for the purposes of visa applications if requested.

Students Under 18

Students under 18 must have approved welfare and accommodation arrangements before a guardian or dependents can join. Guardians must be a parent, relative over 21, or another responsible adult approved by the Department of Home Affairs. They must live with the student and ensure their welfare until they turn 18. ACBNT should be informed of these arrangements and any changes must be documented in writing.

Schooling, Childcare, and Daily Life for Dependents

School Requirements for Children

  • Children aged 5 to 18 must attend school (public or private).
  • Fees apply for dependent children, varying by state and type of school.
  • Research schools near accommodation and enrol early due to high demand.

Childcare and Early Learning

  • Children under 5 may require daycare, family daycare, or preschool.
  • These services are not included in visas or ACBNT services, and waiting lists are common.

Everyday Living Considerations

  • Larger housing, transport, healthcare, and leisure are additional considerations.
  • Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) may cover basic healthcare for dependents, but not dental, optical, or certain specialists. Additional insurance may be necessary.

ACBNT’s Support for Students and Families

ACBNT provides academic and career coaching for its courses, along with general information and support for learners with family responsibilities:

  • Orientation and Information: Overview of family visa conditions, healthcare options, schooling, and local settlement resources.
  • Student Support Services: Support with administrative processes and connecting with local community resources.
  • Dependent Documentation: Assistance in issuing enrolment confirmation letters for family purposes.
  • Referrals and Resources: Contacts for childcare, language programs for spouses, and community services to aid family settlement.

This support helps learners focus on their studies while ensuring their family’s transition is organized and safe.

Preparing for Success with Your Family

  • Decide early which dependents to include in your visa.
  • Gather necessary documentation (marriage and birth certificates).
  • Budget for housing, food, schooling, and living costs.
  • Maintain valid OSHC for all family members.
  • Speak with a Registered Migration Agent early in your planning process.
  • For students under 18, ensure welfare arrangements are approved and monitored.

Proper preparation allows students to concentrate on their studies while their family is supported in Australia.

Your study journey includes both learning and building a stable life. At ACBNT, learners are provided with academic and career coaching, as well as access to relevant information for family planning and settlement. By planning ahead and using available resources, students can enjoy their studies while their loved ones are supported and thriving.

Note: This content is for general information only. For official information and assistance regarding visas, OSHC, or migration matters, students must contact the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs or a Registered Migration Agent.

Contact us:

Australian College of Beauty & Nail Technology (ACBNT)

🏠 Australia Office:
 📞 Phone: 02 9755 9784 – 04 3193 2227
 📍 Address: Building 5, 82-84 John Street, Cabramatta NSW 2166
 📧 Email: info@acbnt.edu.au