Outrage in India over Melbourne assaults

Try to make acquientance/ friendships with people outside of Indian community. Create a good, healthy social network including other nationalities. This will help you improve your language/ communication skills, which will go a long way living in an English-speaking Country. Also, having other people around you will minimise chances of you being targeted.

Try not to be loud in public places particularly using our native languages. This is seen as being rude. Avoid very loud, lengthy conversations over mobile phones when you are using public transport.

Prior to settling down here for studies, set aside a budget for a second hand car. Your own vehicle will help you in a big way to not only avoid travelling alone but will also help you secure a part time job very easily. You could pick up a second hand car for Australian $2500.

Whilst using public transport, listening to hindi/ tamil/ telugu songs on your ipod is fantastic, but be mindful of the volume.

Do your research on the 'troubled' suburbs prior to settling-in for your accommodation. The cheapest suburb may not be the safest suburb. You will be able to access (on web) the crime rates in different suburbs across the main capitals. In Melbourne, avoid suburbs like Hoppers Crossing, Werribee, Frankston, Broad Meadows and Springvale.

There are suburbs with increased violence on public transport users. Do not travel alone in trains after 9pm. Arrange for some form of alternate transportation or travel in groups. Where possible take trams (in Melbourne) instead of trains.

Try to walk away from an 'argument' with a group of people especially at nights. Try not to be a hero every time. No point in trying to make sense to people who have no intentions to listen. If you do feel compelled to say something then respond, do not react.

Try not to walk alone or travel alone on a Friday or Saturday night.

Try to find jobs outside our norms. Indians are generally seen as cab drivers. Try to secure jobs outside this sector for your own experience and will help you gain valuable networks with other nationals.

Most of the time if you are caught in situations wrong place, wrong time it is just unfortunate. But there are situations where you could avoid being in trouble if you just apply common sense.
 
Most Australians are good, friendly people who enjoy a bit of banter and fun. There is racism in this country but I wouldn't say it is as bad as the US or UK. No matter where you go, you will find hardcore immature, red heads! 
 
The good thing about Australia is that most people are immigrants themselves or even second generation Aussies, so you will be able to find common grounds very easily.