By Ina Partisch - Germany, 14 September, 2026
When you’re only in Brisbane for one or two semesters, making friends can feel like something you need to speed-run. At QUT, it was much easier than I expected. Everyone was new and wanted to meet people, and there were so many chances to connect right from the beginning. If you use QUT’s airport pick up service, you can even meet a friendly face as soon as you land in Brisbane!
Where to make friends
My biggest tip is simple: go to Welcome Week. It was the best and easiest way to meet other students, especially other international students who were also trying to find their people. I joined the QUT International Exchange Society (QUTIES) student club, and their events were a gamechanger. I joined their events, activities and trips throughout the semester, which made student life feel active, social and fun from day one.
I also learned that lectures and group assignments are underrated friendship starters. Working on assignments, presentations and group projects made it easy to talk to people naturally. My rule was to actively approach people and try to talk to at least three new people at every event. Every conversation can lead to a new friendship, a new opportunity or a new perspective.
Where to hang out
The best part is that Brisbane makes hanging out easy. QUT Gardens Point is right in the heart of the city, with the Botanic Gardens, South Bank and the CBD within walking distance. One of my favourite things to do was taking the ferry along the Brisbane River, especially to Felons Brewery, and enjoying the view of the Story Bridge and the skyline from the water, particularly in the evening. The many parks with BBQ facilities were also a highlight, as they are perfect for spending time outside with friends. I especially enjoyed New Farm and its relaxed atmosphere.
Another absolute highlight were the weekly farmers markets. The variety of food, the atmosphere, and the opportunity to try something new every time were amazing. Overall, Brisbane’s combination of great weather, friendly people, outdoor lifestyle, and relaxed vibe makes it a fantastic place to live.
My tips
Some of my favourite friendships also came from just saying yes: to trips, tennis at Kelvin Grove, swimming at the Olympic-sized pool, the QUT Classic run, research events, weekend hikes and even casual coffees. As a German student, Australia can feel far from home at first, but Brisbane quickly became a place where I felt connected, supported and excited to explore.
If you’re thinking about studying abroad at QUT, my advice is: be open, get involved early and don’t wait for friendships to magically happen. Your semester will go by incredibly fast, so attend the events, start the conversations, join the trips and make the most of every sunny Brisbane moment. Connect, explore, grow. That sums it up.
