Safety and Security of International Students in Australia

Everyone who succeed with their immigration to Australia is treated a child of the government, especially the student immigrants. The country is committed in providing protection to young visitors whose only aim is to get a quality education, to secure a brighter future. Students responsibility is on their schools or universities, and when it comes to their security, it is a job for the government and several institutions. Even if their stay is just for a short while, the government treats them as its own. From the preparation up to the flight, arrival to departure, an international student is kept safe through the services offered by the immigration department and privileges given by the universities.


First of the many priorities by the government with regards to international student is to reduce racist acts. Although there are only few cases of this, it is still a big concern for the government. The governments is addressing this problems by increasing awareness among native Australians. This is done by vigorously displaying on TV shows, news and other forms the contribution of the student immigrants on their economy. There are also activities that aims to establish better connection between different cultures. The cultural ethics of Australia states that the country is multicultural and allows any religion as long as it doesn't violates any government law. Yet, a resolution is already passed that puts heavier weight on punishment for people who racially discriminate others. Another issues that international students is dragged is the lost of employment for original Australian citizens. They are complaining that immigrants steal their job. The government responds to this by putting restrictions on their skilled migration policies. If you are an international students, and there are attacks on you, physically or culturally, you can call the police on your mobile phone by the numbers 000. This transaction is free of charges.


Accommodation is one of the newest problem the “new” immigrants will face. The competition to get a decent place where one can stay has become tighter. This is after a sudden shortage in housings and large increase on the prices. The actual number of students who suffered from exploitative or illegal rental practices is unknown, but before it become a major concern, several steps has been passed. Every education provider is required under state and/or Commonwealth government legislation to make available affordable accommodation to all new international students for the first 12 months of their education in Australia. Government provide increased funding to service providers for accommodation and housing to ensure international students have adequate information on housing rights, responsibilities and recourse.


If you have concerns on your study, safety, accommodation or in you part-time work, you can call 1300 363 079 - Monday to Friday 8.00am to 6.00pm. This is a hotline provide for international students by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR).