Sydney is the capital city of the State of New South Wales. It is located on the southeast coast of Australia, in the temperate zone, which gives it a mild climate. It is also the largest, oldest and most beautifully situated city in Australia. The City of Sydney was established in 1842 and is a capital city council responsible for the Sydney CBD – the commercial, financial and cultural hub of greater Sydney area.

It is the principal port of call for international airlines operating in Australia. It is also a cosmopolitan city that offers more entertainment, shopping and sightseeing than any other Australian city. The city community includes around 22,000 residents, 235,000 workers and more than 200,000 daily visitors, other government agencies, arts and cultural organisations and community-based service providers.

Sydney is home to nearly 4 million people. The suburbs reach out from the city centre and harbour, some 55 km to the north, 35 km to the west and 30 km to the south. The harbour is one of the largest in the world and famous for the unmistakable arch of the Harbour Bridge and the sails of the Opera House.

It is a very busy waterway, with ferries, freighters, hydrofoils and pleasure craft. There is a lively jazz scene in the city. Eating out in Sydney offers a vast array of ethnic and local restaurants to suit all tastes and pockets. Sydney also has its own Chinatown and shopping in Sydney can be a delightful experience because of the variety of choices available.

It is not possible to itemise all the facilities available – the list is as long and diverse as you care to make it. Whatever your particular interest, you are bound to find it available in Sydney.

Warm clothes are necessary in Sydney during the winter months as night temperatures can drop to less than 10 degrees. Students should bring as much clothing from home as possible, especially if funds are limited while staying in Australia.

For more information, please visit www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au.

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