International student package to boost study experience in Victoria [21.09.2009]
Two initiatives from the Committee for Melbourne – the airport Welcome Booth and the Culture Card – received funding in the State Government’s Thinking Global Action Plan for International Education launched by Premier John Brumby this morning.
Committee CEO Sally Capp said it was important to connect international students to the Melbourne community from the moment they arrived and throughout their stay in Victoria.
“We need to address issues of student safety and vulnerability which to some extent relate to the un-connectedness of international students who are away from their family support networks,” Ms Capp said.
“International students both want, and need, to develop their networks and understanding of their host communities and cities,” she said.
The Welcome Booth has been operating on a trial basis at Melbourne Airport for the peak induction weeks in February and July this year. “It is fantastic that the Government’s support will ensure this initiative is a permanent part of our student welcome in Melbourne,” Ms Capp said.
The Culture Card is a new initiative to start in 2010 and will help students understand and connect to our culture and life in Victoria.
The Culture Card will introduce students to activities and destinations in Victoria, such as football games, arts performances and outdoor experiences. Students would be welcomed to these events, and the activities would be specifically tailored to meet their needs and interests.
Ms Capp also welcomed the other initiatives in the Thinking Global package that would help to raise Victoria’s standing as a competitor to other international study destinations, such as the investment in a scholarship program to attract outstanding students to our State.
International education is the most important service industry export in Victoria with a value of almost $5 billion in the 2008 calendar year.