Melbourne is the capital of the state of Victoria and, with a population of approximately 4.1 million, is Australia's second largest city. Melbourne is renowned as Australia's premier centre for arts, culture, entertainment, culinary excellence, shopping, and sporting spectaculars. Situated on the southeast edge of Australia, Melbourne has a temperate climate. Rainfall is fairly evenly spread throughout the year and the weather is mostly moderate.
Seasons and climate
Despite its small size, the Victorian climate varies across the state. The north is much drier and warmer weather than the south. Australia's seasons are the reverse of those in the northern hemisphere. The climate can be characterised as warm to hot in summer (December to February), mild in autumn (March to May), cold and damp in winter (June to August), and cool in spring (September to November).
| Season | Average Min C | Average Daily Max C | ||
| Summer (December to February) | 14C | 33C | ||
| Autumn (March to May) | 11C | 20C | ||
| Winter (June to August) | 7C | 14C | ||
| Spring (September to November) | 10C | 20C |
* Please note: The seasons in Australia are the reverse of the northern hemisphere
The Cultural Precinct
Situated opposite the Botanical Gardens and within easy walking distance of the Central Business District, lies the Victorian Arts Centre with its landmark spire - the gateway to Melbourne's cultural precinct. Tucked away behind this magnificent theatre complex, in the heart of the cultural precinct, you will find The Australian Ballet Centre which houses both The Australian Ballet and The Australian Ballet School.
Currency
The Australian dollar is the unit of currency and 100 cents = $1. To find out the current exchange rate, see the web currency converter http://www.oanda.com
Transport
Getting around Melbourne is easy. With its flat terrain and structured grid pattern, Melbourne's Central Business District is easy to explore on foot. Using the public transport system you can change from tram to train to bus all on one MYKI Card.
A marjority of ABS students are able to apply for a student travel card, allowing them to travel at concession rates on all public transport.
For more information on public transport see Public Transport Victoria,
Health Issues
To satisfy visa requirements, all international students must be covered by medical insurance called Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). The Australian Ballet School makes the necessary arrangements for health insurance for successful applicants. The current health insurance cost for basic cover is approximately AUD$420 per year.
Student Visa Requirements
The Australian Ballet School sends information to Australian Consulates or Embassies in the countries of successful applicants to facilitate the issue of a student visa.
English Language Requirements
All students from non-English speaking backgrounds who are accepted into The Australian Ballet School are required to have a basic comprehension of the English language. At the time of audition, overseas students may be required to be tested by ELICOS (English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students) and then, if necessary, be tutored in conversational English on arrival in Australia. This is organised by The Australian Ballet School and conducted within normal school hours.
Overseas student fees at The Australian Ballet School
Detailed information about tuition fees for international students can be found here.
Accommodation Options
Accommodation is available via our Boarding Programme.
Helpful Links
For more information on Melbourne and Australia, see the following web sites:
www.melbourne.com.au for useful links to many other informative sites
www.thatsmelbourne.com.au for listings of events and lifestyle options
www.culturecardvictoria.com.au a program that connects international students to Victoria’s sports, art and iconic destinations
www.melbourne.vic.gov.au useful information for students and residents, available in several languages
www.visitvictoria.com.au the official tourism website for Melbourne & Victoria
For further information on Public Transport, visit The Met website www.victrip.com.au
For further information on Health Insurance and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), visit the Australian Health Management (AHM) websitewww.ahm.com.au
For further information on Student Visas, visit the Department of Immigration website www.immi.gov.auFor rental accommodation information, visit www.domain.com.au
For maps of Melbourne addresses, visit www.whereis.com.au