The Federal Minister for Eduction, Dan Tehan, has announced a range of measures to help international students who have remained in Australia while the Covid-19 measures have drastically reduced the options to travel or to work to maintain themselves.
In statement released on Wednesday, April 8, the minister said he was aware of the impact that the response to the Covid-19 virus was having on international students in Australia.
The minister said in a statement that “The Government has announced that international students who have been here longer than 12 months and who find themselves in financial hardship will be able to access their Australian superannuation.”
He added that foreign students would be able to work 40hours per fortnight and students working in aged care and as nurse would have “these hours extended to support these critical sectors.”
“Our Government continues to work with universities and the international education sector to minimise the impact of Covid-19, and that includes finding innovative ways to support our international students.”
READ MORE: Greek community leaders meet with federal immigration minister
Mr Tehan said that international students should make use of the mental health support available through their education providers.
“My message to our international students is: you are our friends, our classmates, our colleagues and members of our community,” the minister said.
On 9 April, the president of the Greek Community of Melbouarne, Bill Papastergiadis, the GCM general secretary Costas Markos and Greek Orthodox Church representative met with acting Minister of Immigration Alan Tudge to discuss the issues facing Greek citizens on temporary visas in Australia. More meetings with the minister are planned.