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Business School

Australian Business Essentials

Team planning session

Are you an international student eager to learn about the Australian workplace and give back to your local community? 

Australian Business Essentials (ABE) at UNSW Business School is designed just for you. This co-curricular program offers you the chance to build professional communication skills, understand Australian workplace culture and apply your learning through a volunteering experience. You’ll combine online modules and activities with hands-on volunteering to prepare you for future success. Whether you're looking to grow your network, develop your skills or give back, ABE provides valuable experience and insights to support your professional journey.

The time commitment for this program is 10 – 12 hours, including a volunteer experience. 

Applications for the T1 2025 programs are now open.

  • ABE is a hybrid, self-paced program blending online learning with hands-on experience. Over six weeks, you’ll complete three online modules, participate in in-person volunteer work and engage in activities designed to reinforce your learning.  

    The modules will guide you through understanding the cultural nuances of the Australian workplace, developing effective communication strategies, and learning how to present your skills and experiences confidently in professional settings. 

    Between modules, you’ll put your knowledge into action by completing activities and volunteering at a local not-for-profit, allowing you to connect with the community while honing your skills in a real-world environment. 

    ABE is designed to provide you with practical tools and confidence to help you thrive in your professional journey. 

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  • You must meet the following criteria to be eligible:

    • Enrolled at UNSW Business School  

    • Completed Career Accelerator: Essentials 

    • Hold international residency status 

    You may attempt Australian Business Essentials twice. Failure to complete the program requirements a second time will exclude you from attempting the program again. 

  • In ABE you will:

    • Develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to engage in interpersonal communication in a professional context in Australia 

    • Develop and demonstrate an understanding of Australian culture in a range of environments 

    • Apply new knowledge about Australian business culture and practice communication skills in culturally immersive experiences  

    • Start or grow professional network and make new social connections 

    • Apply ESG values and give back to local communities through volunteering experiences 

    • Develop essential communication and networking skills.  

    • Learn directly from experienced professionals.  

    • Enhance your resume with a real-world volunteering experience. 

    • Practice articulating your experience for job interviews. Ìý

    • Connect with like-minded peers and expand your social network. 

    • Gain a digital badge to showcase on LinkedIn. 

    • Earn experience points 

    • 20 BCom points (Bachelor of Commerce students) Ìý

    • 20 MCom points (Master of Commerce students) 
  • Joining Australia Business Essentials (ABE) was transformative for me. The workshops taught me effective communication and networking that can be applied in the Australian workplace, while volunteering provided hands-on experience in planning, organising and managing events. Hearing from a former UNSW student offered invaluable real-world insights and the emphasis on articulating our experience helped with my preparation for recruitment processes. These learnings have significantly boosted my career readiness and helped me work towards achieving my professional goals.

    Ankit Attri, Master of International Business
    Australian Business Essentials (ABE) helped me build my confidence and broaden my networks. Taking part in ABE is one of the best decisions I have made while studying at UNSW and I have to say my professional path started with this program.

    Yizhong (Alisa) Zhang, Master of Commerce (Extension)
    Through Australian Business Essentials (ABE), I gained valuable insights into Australian work culture. The weekly workshops helped me develop skills in active listening, networking, teamwork and leadership. In addition, the volunteering experience helped me nurture my environmental stewardship and the spirit of giving back to the community. If you’re looking to develop your professional skills, learn how you can contribute to your surrounding community, while making friends with fellow volunteers, ABE is the right place for you!Ìý

    Veda Renata, Master of Commerce

Questions?

For further information, please emailÌýABE@unsw.edu.au