The COVID-19 crisis is having a devastating effect on Australians as well as international students. Many universities, TAFEs and high schools are already delivering classes online while many international students + international post graduates are losing their jobs due to business closures.

We at Study Abroad Insider believe that if an international student has had their income affected by this crisis, the Government must commit to support them at the same urgency as Australian citizens. We are urging PM Scott Morrison and Minister for Education Daniel Tehan to mandate lower tuition fees and rental support for international students during this pandemic.

Reduction in tuition fees is a fundamental response given that most classes are delivered online. Online classes are not worth the full fees students initially paid for.

Rental support would relieve the financial pressure of international students + international post graduates who rely on their income to pay rent and cover basic living expenses such as health insurance & food. Many are facing the risk of homelessness if they can't pay rent for the upcoming months.

The Government must also consider amending VISA conditions & requirements to all international students + international post graduates whose study progress or future visa applications are affected by this pandemic.

Despite paying much higher tuition fees and being residents for tax purpose, international students are not getting ANY benefits for residents under the new stimulus package by the Government. With the pandemic being a global issue, their families at home also struggle to help. The current situation has had a very negative impact not only on their educational experiences but also mental health.

This is the opportunity for Australian Government & Education Department to reaffirm your reputation as top international education provider. Your action now will show how well you look after international students and will go a long way in making Australia the go-to destination for future students.