Real Ghost Girl

FOR BLOGGERS AND SITE OWNERS: How to Monetize Your Sites Using Infolinks

Bloggers and website owners are in continuous search for ways to either earn or increase their earnings from their blogs and websites.

Some bloggers and website owners have almost come to the conclusion that unless you have a direct advertiser you may never make a decent earning from online advertising platforms like Adsense, Addynamo and Infolinks.

But I have good news for you!

With Infolinks, publishers, bloggers and site owners can earn a decent amount by integrating Infolinks ads into their blogs or websites.

Infolinks adverts can be used to monetize your contents.

How can this be done?

You can start earning money from contents published on your websites and blogs by:

Signing up

Once you have completed the form above an infolinks team will review your application within 48 hours.

Once you’ve been approved you can login to the Publisher Center and track your earnings.

Upon approval you will be able to integrate the Infolinks script into your web pages or blog.

And Start earning revenue immediately!

Let me quickly put you through the process of integrating your infolink to your website or blog to start earning revenue.

For Bloggers: If you already own a blog, you can integrate you infolink with your blog by following this process:

Logon to your blogger account, Click on Layout, and Add Gadget, once you have added it, click on save and it automatically starts generating infolinks ads on your blog. If you don’t have a blogger account yet but would like to create one, click here

If you own a website and want to earn revenue using infolinks, all you need to do is to copy the code that will be generated for you from your infolinks page and paste it into your html page on your website and in minutes your website will start to generate infolinks ads.

How to make money using infolinks

Just like every other online Ad platforms, it is important that you have significant traffic to your blog or website, infolinks gives you up to 12 options of words to be underlined in your posts per page, once a reader clicks on the underlined word, it automatically generates a sale for you the publisher, the more clicks you receive the more money you make, it’s as simple as that!

Optimize your ads by using all available options in your site; the Intag, Infold, Intext and Inframe.

Wait as you see your earnings continue to increase.

Watch infolinks video:

Help Questions for Participating In Adsense

>> What Is Google Adsense? >>www.Google.com earns most of its revenue by allowing other website owners to advertise on their search result pages. All this is managed through a program they call Google AdWords Now you can Earn a share of the revenue that Google earns from AdWords by displaying these same text ads on your site. In other words, you're helping Google advertise and they pay you a percentage of what they earn. This program is called Google AdSense !! Every website owner should at least consider the program. Even if your site is just for information purposes, you can still participate and make decent money with Google AdSense Or at least enough to fund your website. So if you are one of those people that don’t like the idea of paying for a site, this is an excellent way to earn your money back and then some.

>> How Much Can I Earn From Google Adsense? >>Google does not disclose exactly how much you'll earn per ad that is clicked. The commission you receive per click depends on how much advertisers are paying Google for the particular Ad You will earn a share of that amount. I've heard of earnings anywhere from 2 cents to $15 per click. So it is logical to believe that keyword phrases like debt free, employment, make money, mp3, sex,etc. will earn you more per click since these are highly competitive keywords that are searched for quite a bit on the web. Advertisers generally pay more for popular terms because they are searched for more. Even though Google will not reveal how much you are earning for each ad that is clicked from your site, you can still login to your account at any time and see the total amount of revenue you've generated that day, week, month, year, etc. For example, if you see that you've made $12.60 today from 9 clicks then you can calculate that your average click-thru commission was $1.40 per click. That's as detailed as their stats will get. Also remember, that's only an average. You won't know how much each specific ad brought in.

>>Do they tell you when they send a check out?
>> Yes! Check the Payment History.

>>What are the highest paying keywords? >> Your Answer is Look at this page.

>>How much can I earn with this program? >> Look at this thread.

>>I clicked my own Ads by mistake what to do now? >> Its normal doesn’t panic. No one is perfect. Many of us have done that. If you are really worried, you can E-mail them.

>>Do I need to contact Google every time I make a new web site?
>> No.

>>What is a good CTR?
>> It depends on the kind of site you got. Some sites have trouble getting a 1% CTR. Others have no trouble getting over 10% CTR. Check the links at the end of the FAQ for tips on optimizing your site.

>>How can I view my ads with out clicking them?
>> If you are using Windows and the Internet Explorer browser, you can download the Google AdSense preview tool. More information is available at:
http://www.google.com/support/adsense/bin/topic.py?topic=160
If you are not using Windows or do not have access to the Internet Explorer browser, you can view the destination URL of ads appearing on your site by following the instructions on: http://www.google.com/support/adsense/bin/answer.py?answer=9876
If you use these tips, you can set your mind at ease when you want to view the ads appearing on your site.

>>Some times I get a message that says 'Page could not be found' with a 404 error, where the link units should be. What do I do?
>> Make sure you alternative ad URL is working, and from AdSense Advisor. I recommend contacting http://www.webmaster-headquarters.com/faqs/adsense-support@google.com.

>>How do I report a cheater?
>> Click the 'Ads by Google' link. Then select the 'Report a violation.' option and tell them about the cheater.

>>Who is a Cheater? >> A Cheater is person who clicks his own ads and Encourages people to do the same he is also called a Fraud.

>>The Main Question Can I sign-up if I am under 18?
>> Yes. But you must have a parent or guardian submit an application using their name as the payee name and all payments will be made to the adult. NOT TO YOU.

>>I tried joining a week ago but I haven't got any reply. What do I do? >> If you don’t get a reply then E-mail Google.

:::Some Other Important Questions Related To Adsense:::

>>Will I get terminated for not generating enough clicks or impressions?
>> While this language is indeed included in the T&C, please note that we have never done this sort of termination.

>>Is Adsense status a good source to check your traffic?
>> Not really. Many visitors, including Firefox users can block AdSense ads. One user get's twice the page views in awstat and webalizer than show up in the AdSense reports.

>>What do I do if I'm about to get bombed with visitors?
>> E-mail Google ASAP. At least a few business days in advance if you can, and save the E-mail and there reply. Suddenly getting bombed with visitors has been known to make Google send out that invalid clicks termination E-Mail. If you then get terminated, you can reply to them with a copy of your E-mail and there reply. Be polite! Explain to them what caused the massive increase in visitors, and include links to anything that can back you up. For example, a major web page that adds a link to your site.

>>Who pays more money $$Google or Yahoo$$?
>> There's not a lot of info out on this yet. I got three quotes from three users that are now testing Yahoo... 'Yahoo pays 100% more'. Another one is 'finding YPN actually better than Adsense', and 'the CPC is better then AdSense' Of course we don't know how the payout will be after Yahoo get's out of beta. As far as we know, they could cut payout in half a few months after going public when all the hype dies down. If you got Yahoo Ads on your site, post your results on the boards and compare them to Google Ads You will get the Answer.

>>Can we have images above or next to our ads?
>> Yes, but include a border line between the ads and use generic ads.
From AdSense Advisor...
Placing images above AdSense ads is not necessarily prohibited by program policies. However, depending on the method of implementation this could be considered `encouraging users to click on ads'. Encouraging users to click on the Google ads appearing on your site is prohibited by AdSense program policies. The reason for this is to prevent artificial inflation of advertiser costs. This benefits both advertisers and publishers by preserving the integrity of the network, and maintaining its long-term viability. If you have concerns about whether you have implemented your ads in a way that complies with AdSense program policies, feel free to email us with your URL. A specialist will be happy to conduct a review, and you will not be penalized.

>>How do I change my Email Address / login? >> 1. Create a new email. If possible, use the email address currently associated with your AdSense account
2. Write 'Login change request' as the subject of your message 3. Include the following in the body of your message: * The email address currently associated with your account * The date of the first day your account registered AdSense impressions * The number of page impressions registered on your first day of impressions 4.Send the email to adsense-support@Google.com

>>My 'Aggregate' clicks are about 15% more than the sum of all my channel clicks. Why do I have missing clicks?
>> If you are using URL channels, some of these clicks could have been generated from cached versions of your page appearing in search engine results. Also, someone might be framing your content so the clicks are attributable to a different URL. Using 'www' in your URL channel can also have an effect on tracking. If you are using custom channels, it is likely that one of your ad units might not be attributable to a channel.

:::Some Questions Related To CPM & CPC Ads:::

>>What is CPC Ads V/S CPM Ads?
>> Cost-per-click (CPC) and cost-per-thousand-impression (CPM). When AdWords advertisers bid on a CPM basis, their ads will compete against CPC ads to display on your pages. Our technology automatically displays whichever ad will generate the maximum revenue for that page, so these ads should only improve your site's revenue potential. If a CPM ad appears on your site, you will be paid each time it appears on your page, not every 1000 times. The term 'cost-per-thousand-impressions' refers to they way AdWords advertisers bid on these Ads. For example, an AdWords advertiser might bid $X for 1000 ad impressions. If this ad appears on your site through the AdSense program, you will receive 1/1000 of $X each time the ad appears. This type of ad will only show on your site if it represents more revenue potential than a CPC Ads.

>>Can we view CPM ads on our own site?
>> You are permitted to view CPM ads appearing on your pages without the risk of creating invalid ad impressions.

>>How could I be make money from no click?
>> With CPM ads these Ads are Cost Per Month Ads.

>>Why does the page eCPM goes down as day progresses?
>> The ads which pay higher can end because they reach their daily limit.

:::Some More Questions About Getting Away Of BAN From Adsense:::

>>How do I keep away from getting terminated of Adsense? >> Do use the Adsense approved formats only.
>> Do keep your click-through data and income private.
>> Don't display Adsense on registration or thank you pages.
>> Don't use Adsense code and a competitor's content-targeted advertisement on the same page.
>> Don't encourage anyone else to click on ads.
>> Don't click on the site's own ads ever. Read the Adsense policies and terms.

The easiest method an account can be banned is by a Webmaster clicking on the site's own ads.
Spikes in click-through percentages are hefty red flags. Those are the changes worth becoming proactive over by emailing Google Adsense. A site that rises from a consistent 1% click-through rate to a 10% click-through rate on one day could become suspect. The actual percentage that creates the flag isn't made public for obvious reasons.

>>What if I get denied when I sign-up and Google says I got banned before, yet I've never used AdSense?
>> If you get this E-Mail....
Your AdSense account was found to be related to an account previously disabled for invalid click activity. A publisher who has an account that has been disabled for invalid clicks is not allowed further participation in the AdSense program. And you've never used AdSense before try to figure out WHY they might be thinking you were once banned. IP Address? Owning a domain that was once owned by a user that cheated AdSense?? Once you figure out the cause, send them a nicely worded explanation, and cross your fingers.

>>How to get unbanned from Adsense? >> Read these Articles.

>>How to get my Adsense Account back?
>> There is No way to get it back but You Can Try Once by Filling an Online Appeal Form.
Next time you join a program, read the Terms & Conditions CAREFULLY.

>>Does high CTR mean elimination from Adsense?
>> probably not. It shows your site is much optimized. It's when you have a massive spike that you want to worry about it. One thing to worry about is getting click-bombed. If you average 100 clicks a day, and suddenly get a 500 click day, contact Google immediately.

>>Can affiliate text links be on the same page as AdSense?
>> Yes. Though if you join programs that look like AdSense, such as Yahoo ad program, where the ads show content related to the page, you can't have them on the same page as Google.

>>Can I place Yahoo and Google ads on the same site?
>> Yes, BUT, they can not be on the same page. And you can have it random, one time Yahoo, and another time Google. Just don't have them both show up on the same page.

>>Can my account be reinstated after being disabled for invalid activity? >> If you feel additional information would be valuable in explaining your situation, you can notify Google at Adsense-adclicks@Google.com , or respond to the disapproval notice that was emailed to you.

Respond to the qu1.1estions asked by the support team, and they will be happy to reconsider your account with the additional information provided. There is no guarantee that you will be reinstated into AdSense. If they feel the advertisers and publishers will be adversely impacted by invalid activity we may from time to time cease a publisher's participation in the program.

>>I clicked a Number of ads on the first day and I didn't know. What do I do?
>> If you accidentally click on your own ads, it's best to let the AdSense team know. Email http://www.webmaster-headquarters.com/faqs/adsense-support@google.com and Then Explain the situation.

Challenge Yourself Study in Sweden

It is a big step to study abroad, and the options are almost limitless. So what makes Sweden stand out as a study destination?

Develop skills for tomorrow

Studying in Sweden is different. Swedish universities have an open climate, with a strong focus on group work. This will give you valuable skills for the future. The global job market values ambitious, innovative and perceptive team players. Swedish universities foster these qualities through a forward-thinking culture where you’re close to the latest ideas and trends.

Swedish master’s degree programs offer unusual opportunities to turn theory into practice. Many programs also cooperate closely with the industry, offering students the possibility to mix study and practical work. This gives you distinct advantages over your peers when entering the job market.

Sweden has three universities in top 100 and eleven in top 500 of the 2010 edition of the Academic Ranking of World Universities compiled by Shanghai Jiao Tong University.

Reach your full potential

Swedish universities will encourage you to discover and develop your true strengths and talents. The education system is student-centric and relations between students and teachers are informal. As a student in Sweden you’re expected to address your teachers by their first name.

Personal initiative and independent thinking are prized. You will be required to take an active role and contribute with your opinions and ideas at lectures, seminars and in group discussions.

Taking the initiative and questioning old presumptions is rewarding, especially in the long term. It will give you the opportunity to develop your individual strengths and refine your academic abilities.

Experience a culture of innovation

One of the world’s most modern countries, Sweden is the birthplace of many successful international corporations.

Innovative research at Swedish universities and companies has resulted in a number of successful inventions. Some examples are: the computer mouse, Bluetooth for internet mobility, the pacemaker, the ball bearing, the Tetra Pak beverage packaging system, the dialysis machine and internet applications such as the online music streaming service Spotifyand the free internet calling service Skype.

Skype is an intriguing example. It was founded by entrepreneur Niklas Zennström in 2003. The exact number of Skype users is difficult to estimate, due to its rapid growth. But at peak times, up to 23 million people are online using Skype simultaneously.

These fairly recent inventions build on a long history of excellence in academia and research. Sweden is the home of the prestigious Nobel Prize and has highly acclaimed universities dating back to the 15th century.

Sweden has a number of large multinational corporations, such as telecom provider Ericsson, automotive companies Volvo and Scania, household appliances corporation Electrolux, bearing manufacturer SKF, and high-tech engineering groups Sandvik and Atlas Copco.

The deep-rooted creative environment has made Sweden a strong nation within design, fashion and music, with well-known international brands such as furniture giant IKEA and clothes retailer H&M. Sweden is also one of the largest music-exporting countries in the world.

Application period already

The official application period for master’s and bachelor’s degree programs starting Autumn 2012 opens Dec 1, and the application deadline is Jan 16, 2012. However, some universities are already opening the gates for applications today, Oct 17.

The program database here at Studyinsweden.se will be updated soon with all the available programs. But if you can’t wait, we recommend that you use the search function at Universityadmissions.se, which is where you also create your online application.

Note that if you can't find the courses and programmes for the university you’re interested in, please wait until the entire course catalog is published on December 1.

To clarify — as long as you send your application before the application deadline (Jan 16) it makes no difference if you apply early or late in the process. So you can take your time and contemplate your options before you take the leap and finalize your application.

However, some of the Erasmus Mundus programs have an application deadline at November 30 for programs that start Autumn 2012. You can read more about that here.

General information about how to apply to higher education in Sweden is available here for master’s and bachelor’s degree programs respectively.

When you are ready to send in your application, make sure to check out the Autumn semester timeline and checklist and all the other information and instructions at Universityadmissions.se.

Karl Peterson

Karl Peterson is the web manager of Studyinsweden.se and works with marketing Swedish higher education at the Swedish Institute. He has a master's degree in Media & Communication studies from the Department of Journalism, Media and Communication (JMK) at Stockholm University.

Study in Sweden

Study in Sweden is a comprehensive resource for information about higher education in Sweden.

The site incorporates a database of English-language degree programs, information about Sweden’s universities as well as practical facts concerning application procedures, scholarships, visas, accommodation and information for learning Swedish as a foreign language.

Student Visas for Germany

If you wish to take up studies in Germany, you will need a visa for entry (residence permit in the form of a visa). A visa is absolutely necessary under the immigration laws there; the only exceptions are for applicants from European Union countries and from states with which special agreements have been made: Honduras, Iceland, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and the USA. It is not permissible to enter the country on a tourist visa for the purpose of studying here. Those wishing to enter the country to study may apply for a visa for purposes of study, or for a study applicant visa. The visa must be issued before you can enter the country; you should therefore apply for it in good time. The responsible body is the German Embassy or Consulate General in your country, which can also provide you with further information. The visa for purposes of study will be issued if you have already been accepted to study in Germany. The study applicant visa (Studienbewerber-Visum) permits you to enter the country before the admission decision by the university or college, in order to obtain information on the spot. The university applicant visa is particularly important for applicants to the Hochschule für Musik and Theater (College of Music and Drama), so that you can enter the country for the entrance examination. And this type of visa may also be useful to applicants who wish to improve their language skills in Germany before starting their studies. The study applicant visa is limited to three months, but it can be converted to a visa for study purposes if you receive your admission from the university or college during this period. For both types of visas it is necessary to hold a valid passport, to provide proof of financial means for your period of study in Germany, and to have either university admission (visa for purposes of study) or at least a confirmation of your status as an applicant (study applicant visa). Those who intend to study and enter the country on a study applicant visa should also note that they must provide evidence of a university or college place in Germany within the prescribed period of three months, in order to obtain a residence permit for study purposes. Applying for Visas for Academic Studies or Language Courses in Germany In order to receive your visa in good time, please note the following three points: 1. Submit your application with all accompanying documents at least eight weeks before your planned trip to Germany; 2. Fill in the application form and bring it with the complete set of documents to the Embassy; 3. Should you have any queries, please contact the Cultural Section at the Embassy in Singapore, which is responsible for your area. You may be issued with one of three types of visa: 1) student applicant visa (if you do not yet have a certificate of admission to higher education or of confirmation of application); 2) student visa (if you have a certificate of admission to higher education or of confirmation of application); 3) visa for participation in a language course (if you only wish to attend a language course in Germany). N.B.: If you intend to begin studies in Germany immediately after your language course ends, you must apply for either a student visa or a student applicant visa before arrival in Germany, otherwise you will have to leave Germany at the end of the course and reapply from Singapore. The visa for a language course cannot be converted into a student visa or a student applicant visa in Germany! 1) For the student applicant visa you will need the following basic documents: a valid passport and 2 passport photographs; proof of possession of a school leaving certificate, i.e. A-level certificate, entitling you to study in both Singapore and Germany (or to visit a preparatory course in Germany) as well as, where necessary proof of previous studies; proof that you already possess German-language skills or that you plan to attend an intensive language course (at least 20 hours per week) in Germany; proof of sufficient funds to finance your period of study. You may either a) finance yourself or b) nominate one or more persons who will assume the full costs. You must supply evidence that sufficient funds per months or a sum covering at least one year's study are available (e.g. own funds) equal to the highest German student loan level (BaföG), i.e. currently about DM 1,000 per month. N.B.: As a student in Germany you may as a rule work for a maximum of 3 months and, depending on where you study, only during recess periods (e.g. semester holidays). (1) If you are financed by a sponsor in your home country, that person must declare his/her willingness to cover all your costs during the standard period of study (proof of a minimum monthly income of 4,000 S$ (by means of local documents such as tax receipts, bank statements, certificates of employment, pay slips, Commercial Register excerpts). (2) If you are financed by a sponsor in Germany, that person must submit a binding declaration that he/she is willing to cover all your costs during the standard period of study. (3) If you receive a scholarship you must produce a letter of confirmation to this effect. In all cases it must be certain that you will have a monthly sum available to you directly in Germany. 2) For the student visa you will in principle need all documents listed under 1) above, except that - instead of the school leaving certificate, i.e. A-level certificate, you must enclose the certificate of admission to higher education or of confirmation of application. N.B.: You may normally only send for your family later to live with you in Germany in exceptional cases, e.g. if you are scholarship holder or on a postgraduate course. In these cases you must be able at least to support yourself and your family, have sufficient accomodation for your family, and already be registered at a German higher education institution. Please take your time and do not hesitate to contact the Cultural and Consular Sections of your local Embassy for further detailed advice on any questions you may have regarding your planned studies in Germany. 3) For the visa for participation in a language course you will basically need the following documents: a valid passport and 2 passport photographs proof that you have registered for a language course (e.g. certificate of registration, receipt of course fees) proof that you will be covered by health insurance for the duration of your stay in Germany proof that you are able to finance your stay and the course (using your own funds or via third parties). N.B.: 1. During the language course you are normally not allowed to take up employment. 2. If you intend to study in Germany after your course ends, please state this fact in your application, so that you can be issued with a student applicant visa or student visa, provided you fulfil the conditions for issue. These visas entitle the holder to attend language courses and to study in Germany (see above!). If you only apply for the language course visa, you will have to leave Germany at the end of the course. It is not possible to exchange this visa for another form of residence permit in Germany. 3. Examination of your application will normally require approximately 6 - 8 weeks. If the language course is longer than three months, processing of your application will require about 8 - 10 weeks. Therefore please send your application to the Consular Section in good time, i.e. at least eight weeks before you plan to travel! Should you intend to travel to Germany with your family, please contact the Cultural or Consular Section of your local Embassy. There is no legal right to a visa, even if all documents are submitted. The ultimate decision rests with the Legal and Consular Sections of the Embassy. You may be asked to supply further documentation.

For comprehensive further information on this or any other course(s) or college(s), please use our  Application Form Service - It's FREE

Learning German

Learning German

Online Deutsch lernen, Bild: g.a.s.t./TestDaF-Institut

With only a few words of German you can make yourself already understood. There are many ways to learn German:

Learning German your way
Practicing German
Language tandem: Learning German together
Creative and cheap ways to learn German

Summer courses

Sommerkurs in Deutschland, Bild: Frommann/DAAD

During the summer break from June till September German universities offer almost 300 language courses, some of them are free of cost. Besides your daily language classes you have enough time to explore Germany. The DAAD-Database will help you to find your Summer course 2010.

Testing your German

Deutschtest, Bild: Lichtenscheidt/DAAD

Help in your country

The Australian Government has an extensive network of offices and education advisers around the world providing reliable and impartial advice on studying in Australia.

Africa/Indian Ocean

Asia

Europe

Czech Republic

Denmark

France

Italy

Germany

Norway

Poland

Portugal

Russia

Slovak Republic

Spain

Sweden

Switzerland

The Netherlands

United Kingdom

Middle East

North America

Latin America

You can also visit Study in Australia websites in six Asian and 12 European languages. These websites provide country specific advice about what you need to do to study in Australia, and what other students from your country are studying.

The latest information on the Australian education and training system, costs of study and living, application and enrolment procedures and the Australian way of life is also available from reference sites set up in local institutions and libraries around the world.

Australian Embassies, High Commissions and Consulates

Australian Government representation in other countries can take a variety of forms. Our main diplomatic offices are embassies and high commissions. In many countries you will also find Australian consulates and trade offices. You can find the contact details of your nearest Australian Government office on the Australian Government's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website.

Money matters

Introductory Snapshot

It's easy for visitors to Australia to access money. There are automated teller machines (ATMs) in most Australian towns and all cities, as well as banks that will cash travellers cheques. The Australian dollar has become increasingly competitive against major international currencies like the US dollar and the euro, so the country is a less economical destination than it used to be. That said, daily living costs such as food and accommodation are still fairly inexpensive. The biggest cost in any trip to Australia if you want to see a lot of the country will be transport, simply because it's such a huge place.

Banks

Banking services in Australia are extremely competitive. More than 20 local and numerous international banks are represented in Australia and all major banks have many branches in each city and regional centre. Major banks in Australia include the Commonwealth Bank, ANZ, Westpac, National Australia Bank (NAB) and St George. Normal trading hours are 9:30am to 4:00pm Monday to Thursday and 9:00am to 5:00pm on Fridays. Most banks are closed on Saturdays and Sundays, however some institutions are opening for short periods on Saturday mornings.

Establishing bank accounts

Opening a local bank account relatively simple for overseas students. It is recommended you open an bank account within six weeks of arrival. Simply present your passport and provide the bank with a postal address. The bank will then open an account for you and send you an ATM card allowing you to access your money.

After six weeks most banks require you to provide more identification, such as a passport, a birth certificate or an international driving licence with photo. Some banks will waiver monthly account fees if you provide proof of enrolment as a full time tertiary student.

It is recommended you visit the website of the bank where you want to open your account for more details.

Banking ombudsman

The Australian Banking and Financial Services Ombudsman assists individuals and small businesses to resolve complaints concerning all financial services provided by banks.

For example there may be an instance where you see that money has been withdrawn from your bank account without your consent. In this case it may be necessary to talk to the banking ombudsman to resolve the issue.

Free interpreter services are available.

For more information on the banking ombudsman visit www.fos.org.au or call            1300 780 808      .

ATMs, Eftpos & Credit Cards

Branches of the ANZ, Commonwealth, National, Westpac and affiliated banks are found all over Australia, and many provide 24-hour automated teller machines (ATMs). Most ATMs accept cards issued by other banks and are linked to international networks. Most shopping centres have automatic teller machines (ATMs). These can be used for deposits and withdrawals 24 hours a day.

Eftpos (Electronic Funds Transfer at Point of Sale) is a convenient service that many Australian businesses have embraced. It means you can use your bank card (credit or debit) to pay directly for services or purchases, and often withdraw cash as well.

Credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted for everything, including getting cash advances over the counter at banks and from many ATMs. Charge cards such as Diners Club and American Express (Amex) are not as widely accepted.

Currency & Exchanging Money

Australia uses a dollars and cents system of decimal currency with 100 cents in a dollar. The bank notes in use are $5 (purple), $10 (blue), $20 (orange), $50 (yellow) and $100 (green). Coins used are silver 5 cents, 10 cents, 20 cents and 50 cents, and gold $1 and $2 coins. Australian currency is the only legal tender in Australia.

Changing foreign currency or travellers cheques (see following) is usually no problem at banks throughout Australia or at licensed money-changers such as Travelex or Amex in cities and major towns.

Transferring money

Money can be transferred to Australia by bank drafts or cheques and telegraphic transfer (TT). Bank drafts from overseas will take a few days to arrive and can take up to 10 working days to clear through an Australian bank. Telegraphic transfers usually take shorter time, but cost more.

Taxes & Refunds

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a flat 10% tax on all goods and services – accommodation, eating out, transport, books, furniture, clothing etc. There are exceptions, however, such as basic foods (milk, bread, fruits and vegetables). International air and sea travel to/from Australia is GST-free, as is domestic air travel when purchased outside Australia by non-residents.

If you purchase new or second-hand goods with a total minimum value of $300 from any one supplier no more than 30 days before you leave Australia, under the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS), you are entitled to a refund of any GST paid. For more details, contact the Australian Customs Service on             1300 363 263       or             02 6275 6666       or you can visit the website at: www.customs.gov.au

Travellers Cheques

The convenience of internationally linked credit and debit card facilities in Australia means that travellers cheques are not used much. Nevertheless, Amex, Thomas Cook and other well-known international brands of travellers cheques are easily exchanged. You need to present your passport for identification when cashing travellers cheques.

For security, record the numbers of your travellers cheques and keep these numbers in a separate location from the cheques themselves.

Shopping Etiquette

Bargaining is not the norm in Australia, unless you're at a second-hand market or buy a whole new wardrobe from one store, in which case it probably wouldn't hurt to ask for a small discount.

Tipping is becoming more common in Australia, particularly in cafes and restaurants in the bigger cities; a 10% tip is usual. However, you won't cause offence if you don't tip. Taxi drivers are always grateful if you leave the change.

Australia For Free

There are plenty of activities that cost nothing or next to nothing for those on a budget. Appreciate Australia's stunning natural beauty and native animals with walks through its pristine national parks – there are more than 500. Enjoy endless walks along endless beaches; go people watching at fantastic markets; learn about Australia's art and heritage at excellent free galleries and museums (see the Culture section); or attend some typically Australian festivals, like the surf life-saving competitions on beaches all around the country during summer. The list of free or cheap things to do is endless, so there's no need to let a student budget come between you and good times.

Working while you study

People granted student visas on or after 26 April 2008 will receive permission to work with their visa grant. If your student visa was granted before 26 April 2008 however, you can still apply separately to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) for permission to work once you have started your course in Australia.

Permission to work allows you to work up to 20 hours a week on a casual basis during course time and full-time during vacation periods. Family members can also work up to 20 hours a week throughout the year. In the case of students who have commenced a masters or doctorate course, family members can work unlimited hours. Students and their family members must not undertake work until the student has commenced their course of study in Australia. For further information please visit the Working while you study in Australia page.