Student advice for International Students
A number of initiatives have been put in place by government and other organisations to help international students in these difficult COVID times. Information can be obtained, via the relevant links, relating to travel to Victoria, available free food and meals, emergency financial relief, various student programs and free legal advice on employment or accommodation matters.
Travelling to Australia (international students)
Updates are available in relation to travelling to Victoria, Australia. While borders are currently closed to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, there are a number of programs students can access to prepare them for when they can once again study in Australia.
Access this link for more information on travel restrictions, travel exemptions and student visas:
https://www.studymelbourne.vic.gov.au/help-and-support/coronavirus-support-for-students/supporting-students-into-Victoria
Community support and food relief
The Victorian Government, together with many local councils and community organisations, have provided relief and assistance for international students who are struggling to pay for food during the pandemic.
Details can be accessed on:
https://www.studymelbourne.vic.gov.au/news-updates/updates/support-and-food-relief-organisations
Emergency relief (financial) support
The Red Cross has received funding from the Victorian Government to provide emergency relief to people who are unable to access Commonwealth income support and are temporary or provisional visa holders. For further information, and to see if you meet eligibility requirements, access the following link:
https://www.redcross.org.au/get-help/help-for-migrants-in-transition/help-for-migrants-in-transition/vic-relief
Student programs
Programs have been put in place by the Victorian Government to support international students impacted by the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. These include:
- A16-week program for offshore South Asian students covering Transformational Meditation, Quad Casting, Confidence Crew, Break Free and Everyday Heroes: https://www.studymelbourne.vic.gov.au/news-updates/updates/confidence-crew-south-asia
- A webinar series – Career Catalyst – helping international students get professional experience while in Victoria
- Study Melbourne Future Founders Program 2021 delivered by the State Library Victoria’s StartSpace, aimed at inspiring and creating opportunities for the next generation of business founders: https://www.studymelbourne.vic.gov.au/news-updates/future-founders-program-2021
- Study Melbourne Leadership Labs 2021 – to encourage the leaders of tomorrow: https://www.studymelbourne.vic.gov.au/event/leadership-labs-2021
Legal services
Study Melbourne Student Centre support staff can provide advice on where you can access a community legal centre and the International Student Employment and Accommodation Legal Service for free legal advice. Access this link for more information:
https://www.studymelbourne.vic.gov.au/help-and-support/the-law-and-my-rights/legal-advice