AusAID

Bringing family to Australia

AusAID and the University of Wollongong recommend to students who would like to bring their families to wait until they have done the following:

  • Secured permanent accommodation
  • Completed the Introductory to Academic Studies program
  • Completed necessary childcare/school arrangements (refer to the Schooling page)
  • Arranged Family Overseas Student Health Care (refer to the OSHC page) 
  • Commenced degree program

The decision to bring family to Australia is a personal decision and neither AusAID or the University of Wollongong has the right to prevent a student from bringing their families to Australia. 

Issues to consider:

  • Do you have sufficient funds to pay for airfares, OSHC, accommodation, food, clothing etc for your family?
  • Will your family be able to adjust to life in Australia?
  • If your family do not speak English, what problems may they face?
  • Will your children struggle to adjust to the education in Australia/ or when returning to your home country?
  • Will your spouse be able to gain employment in Australia?
  • Will your spouse's career in your home country be disrupted?

Please note that AusAID and the University of Wollongong will not cover any expenses relating to your family dependants.

How to apply for family entry

Long Term Stay

Students who are would like to bring their families to Australia for the duration of their AusAID scholarship are required to apply for a Student Dependant Visa.

You will be required to supply the following documents:

  • Offer of Admissions
  • Confirmation of Enrolment (provided by AusAID Officer)
  • Confirmation of Family OSHC letter (provided by AusAID Officer)
  • Letter of Offer for NSW Government schools entry
  • Proof of permanent accommodation
  • Copies of dependants passports

For further information on the application process, refer to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC).

Short Term Stay

Students who would like to bring their families or friends to Australia for a short duration of their AusAID scholarship are required to apply for a Visitor's Visa or a Tourist Visa.

Refer to the following site DIAC for further information.

 

Last reviewed: 24 March, 2011