Newcastle is a vibrant coastal city and the second largest city in the state of New South Wales, two and a half hours north of Sydney. With much to see and do, you will be warmly welcomed to explore a variety of authentic experiences, Australian lifestyle and culture.
For international students living in Newcastle, the city:
- offers a more affordable cost of living
- is friendly and safe
- has good work opportunities available
Nearby Newcastle
Surrounding Newcastle are regional attractions including:
- Lake Macquarie – Australia’s largest coastal saltwater lagoon
- Port Stephens – A collection of seaside villages with beautiful sand dunes
- Hunter Valley – stunning vineyards, valleys and gourmet eateries
- Barrington Tops – a world-heritage listed rainforest popular for bushwalking, kayaking, abseiling and mountain biking.
Entertainment
There are many low-cost and free activities for you and your friends to do together around the city. here are some ideas to start with:
- Rent a bike, ride along the coast and watch for whales in winter
- Hang out with koalas and kangaroos at Blackbutt Nature Reserve or the Hunter Valley Zoo
- Pick up some tasty fresh produce at Newcastle Food and Flower Markets
- Explore arts and history at Newcastle’s Muesuem, Art Gallery or Civic Theatre
- Be spotted for talent singing your heart out at karaoke nights and venues across Newcastle
- Enjoy a boutique shopping experience on Darby Street or visit our major shopping malls
Food
With a range of mouth-watering restaurants, bars and cafes, Newcastle has cuisines to suit all tastes. The two main destinations for food lovers are Darby Street in Cooks Hill and Beaumont Street in Hamilton. Here are some local favourites to try:
- Darby Street – Goldbergs, Three Monkeys or Autumn Rooms (Cafes), Le Dynasty (Chinese) or Darby Raj (Indian)
- Beaumont Street – Mockingbird (Cafe), El Nonno (Italian), Kings XI (Indian) or Eight Buns (Chinese)
- Elsewhere in Newcastle – Ginger Meg’s (Asian Fusion). MEET (Brazilian), Grand Pavilion (Indian) or Glebe Takeaway (Fish and Chips)
- Best beach views – try cafes including Estabar, Newcastle Beach Kiosk or Merewether Surfhouse
Sport
The people of Newcastle, known as Novocastrians, love a range of sports. You can get involved and:
- Watch the Newcastle Knights (rugby league) or the Newcastle Jets (football) at McDonald Jones Stadium
- Play cricket, tennis, netball, basketball, baseball, hockey, badmington, football/soccer and more around the city
- Swim indoors or outdoors, at swimming pools, coastal baths or patrolled beaches
- Work out with students discounts at The Forum gyms based at Callaghan campus and in the city
Explore our campuses take a virtual tour
Smart technology
Smart parking app, next-gen streetlight technology and interactive help screens.
Connected
Free high-speed public WiFi in the CBD and apps with real-time information
Newcastle airport
Frequent direct flights to major Australian cities; and many one or two stop flights to major international cities. Awarded Australia’s best airport in 2018.
Public transport
Trains, trams and buses safely connect our campuses to the city and beach.
Free shuttles
The University offers free shuttles between it’s Newcastle campuses, and shuttles from Newcastle Callaghan to nearby local shops.
