The pandemic hit us without warning disrupting everyday lives in a way unimagined and international students are those affected. Not only did their university lives come to an abrupt halt, the casual sources of income dried up too. Isolation, homesickness, financial handicaps and the challenges to excel academically with a new online learning environment that both students and teachers had to acclimatise to were some of the obstacles they faced.
While the pandemic situation has since improved in Australia, the challenges for the international student community, and the temporary visa holders at large, remain.
We bring to you a list of organisations that can help in these difficult times.
Study NSW and Study Melbourne are the government initiatives of the NSW and Victoria government respectively to aid international students. Their websites list a volley of governmental and non-governmental organisations that are committed to help students in need.
Food and Groceries
Foodbank
In their own words, Foodbank is the pantry to the Australia’s charity sector. Foodbank has partnered with various state governments to provide food and groceries assistance to international students. now more here.
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army has set up a response system in these difficult times to help people from all walks of life, regardless of their nationality or jobs. Find more on their work and how to access help here.
Vinnies (All States)
St. Vincent de Paul Society. Commonly known as Vinnies provides a multitude of assistance such as food and clothing help for people in need. More can be found here.
Anglicare
A charity organisation based in New South Wales; Anglicare offers help for people struggling to cover the cost of living. Know more here.
Accommodation and Utilities
Most Australian states have placed a moratorium on rental evictions. People who are unable to pay the rent can still occupy their quarters. However, rent is expected to be paid and the government encourages tenants to enter into an arrangement with landlords that work for both parties. In addition to the moratorium, following organisations can be reached out to, to assist with rent and other financial needs:
Metro Assist
Metro Assist helps with tenancy advocacy. It helps mediate between landlords and tenants and tries to protect people from terminations and illegal lockouts. Know more here.
Salvation Army (Rent Assist/Homelessness support)
The Salvation Army helps applicants find temporary residence and in certain cases can also help with rent assistance. Find out more here.
Australian Red Cross
The Australian Red Cross has an entire program dedicated to homelessness and aid for housing problems. Find out more here.
Vinnies
Vinnies is yet another organisation committed to help people in the times of financial crisis. Find out how you can benefit here.
Mental Health
Beyond Blue
Beyond blue can always be reached out through their helpline. It helps deal with feelings of isolation, depression, anxiety and fear. Know more here.
Lifeline
The national suicide helpline is another 24/7 available aid. Reach out to them here.
National Coronavirus helpline
Here is a list of resources about COVID-19 in other languages. The resources include fact sheets, guidelines and other publications.
Embrace Multicultural Mental Health
Funded by the Mental health Australia and the Australian Government Department of Health, Embrace aims to provide mental health support in multiple languages. It aims to provide care in native languages for better understanding and impact. Know more here.
One Door Mental Health
One Door Mental Health Support services are based out of Auburn, Sydney and offer aid in multiple languages. Know more here.
Legal Aid
Redfern Legal Centre
The International Student Legal Service NSW gives free, confidential legal advice to international students living in New South Wales. Find more here.
State government aids
Various government agencies like Study Melbourne, Study Perth and Study NSW have put up comprehensive lists of the services and aid avenues available to international students through them. In addition, universities have their own response program in the form of bursaries in relaxations in place.
Emergency Support
Following are the organisations that can be reached out to if you are in an urgent financial or housing crisis:-
- Australian Red Cross
- Hindu Council of Australia (Crisis relief)
- Study Melbourne (Applications close on 31st December)
Disclaimer: We’d like to point out that the information contained in this segment is general and is not specific advice. If you would like accurate information relevant to your situation, you should ask a registered migration agent.
People in Australia must stay at least 1.5 metres away from others. Check your jurisdiction's restrictions on gathering limits.
If you are experiencing cold or flu symptoms, stay home and arrange a test by calling your doctor or contact the Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080.
News and information is available in 63 languages at https://sbs.com.au/coronavirus
Please check the relevant guidelines for your state or territory: NSW, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, Northern Territory, ACT, Tasmania
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