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Valuable but vulnerable: welfare of international students a top priority

Tertiary students at the University of Melbourne in Melbourne, Wednesday, May 8, 2012. (AAP Image/Julian Smith) NO ARCHIVING

International students at Melbourne University in Melbourne, Wednesday, May 8, 2012. (AAP Image/Julian Smith) NO ARCHIVING Source: AAP

They might generate billions for the Australian economy, but international students can be among those needing more support.


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By Euna Cho

Source: SBS



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They might generate billions for the Australian economy, but international students can be among those needing more support.


After iron ore and coal, education makes up Australia’s largest export industry.

In the last financial year, international students were worth a record $28 billion to the economy - an increase of 16 per cent - as the number of foreign students grew nationwide. 

Investing in student welfare has become a top priority for service providers, in order to enhance the experience for those in their home away from home.

While New South Wales has the largest share of the international intake, at 37 per cent, Victoria is close behind with 32 per cent.

Victorian Education Department Deputy Secretary Tim Ada said enhanced student experience was a priority for the government, which has pledged $337,000 to its International Student Welfare Program.

Legal support for tenancy and employment is one focus.

Inner Melbourne Community Legal CEO, Daniel Stubbs, says the funding will improve student awareness of the services available to them.


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