Local environment
and culture 

International students who want to study in an English-speaking country often consider destinations such as Australia, New Zealand, the UK, the USA and Canada. Many students choose Australia because of its high-quality education system, which is recognised worldwide and regulated by the Australian Government to ensure consistent national standards. 

Australia also offers a safe, multicultural environment with a high standard of living, and its close proximity to Asia makes it a convenient and accessible study destination for many students from the region. 

Australia is made up of six states, two mainland territories, and several external territories: 

• States: New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria and Western Australia 

• Mainland territories: Northern Territory and the Australian Capital Territory (home to Canberra, Australia’s capital city) 

1  Populations are Estimated Resident Population (ERP) as at 31 December 2024 — Australian Bureau of Statistics (released 19 June 2025) 

2  International Student Data for the year-to-date (YTD) May 2025 – Created: 4 July 2025 Modified: 8 August 2025 on education.gov.au 

Queensland is one of the largest states in Australia, both by size and population. It enjoys a sub-tropical climate with warm summers and mild winters. The population and economy continue to grow, with people arriving from overseas and from other Australian states. Often referred to as the Sunshine State, Queensland is known for its relaxed & affordable lifestyle, world class natural attractions like World-famous attractions, including the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, Sunshine Coast, & Gold Coast and welcoming communities.  

Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, is home to over one million residents and thousands of international students. The city is built around the Brisbane River, creating a scenic setting for markets, restaurants, and cultural events. Attractions such as the South Bank Parklands, Queensland Museum, and Gallery of Modern Art are free to enjoy, and Brisbane is less than an hour from the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast beaches. Popular theme parks, including Dreamworld, Sea World and Movie World, are also located nearby. 

Brisbane’s central location on Australia’s east coast makes it a convenient base for exploring the state and the country. From here, students can access the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest in the north, the Australian Outback to the west, and destinations such as Byron Bay and Sydney to the south. 

The city is recognised as a safe and multicultural study destination. Accommodation options range from homestays to student housing and shared rentals. Brisbane also has an extensive public transport system including trains, buses and ferries, making it easy to move around the city. 

The Australian College of Technology and Business (CRICOS Provider Code: 03164M) is located on Brunswick Street in Fortitude Valley, about one kilometre from Brisbane’s central business district. Fortitude Valley is a hub for arts, music, dining, shopping and cultural events. It is also home to Brisbane’s Chinatown Mall, a focal point for Asian food, culture and community since 1987. The Valley Markets, held every weekend, add to the area’s lively character. 

Studying at ACTB means learning in the heart of this vibrant and multicultural part of Brisbane. 

Australians are known for their friendly, easy-going nature and enjoy a balance of work and leisure. Popular pastimes include outdoor sports, barbecues, picnics, concerts, and festivals. Students will find many opportunities to connect socially and experience both Australian traditions and the diverse cultures represented across the community. 

For students who want to build confidence in workplace communication, ACTB offers an optional Professional Business English course, designed to strengthen language skills while providing insight into Australian business culture.