Support Program:
- Working for Victoria is a new initiative through which international students who have working rights in Australia can find new job opportunities, if they have lost their jobs in this pandemic situation.
- International students in Victoria can apply for a $1100 relief fund to cover their living expenses in the state. Visit studymelbourne.vic.gov.au.
- Red Cross is receiving funds from the government of Australia to assist temporary visa holders with basic necessities for the next 6 months. Click here to learn more.
- Temporary visa holders will be able to access up to $10,000 of their superannuation in this financial year to assist in supporting themselves through the coronavirus crisis.
- International Students who have been here for longer than 12 months who find themselves in financial hardship will be able to access their Australian superannuation.
- International students working in supermarkets will have their working hours return to the maximum 40 hours a fortnight from May 1, 2020 as more Australians are being recruited into these roles.
- International students working in aged care and as nurses continue to have their hours extended to support these critical sectors.
- The Government will also be flexible in cases where Coronavirus has prevented international students from meeting their visa conditions (such as not being able to attend classes).
- 457/482 visa holders whose working hours have been reduced by the employer (due to COVID 19 impact) will not be in breach of their visa condition.
- 457/482 visa holders who have lost their job due to COVID 19 impact should find a new employer/sponsor in 60 days. If not, their visa may be cancelled and they may have to return to their home country or look for further legal avenues.
La Trobe University pays $3000 as one off payment for students who require assistance in covering their living expenses along with a separate technological bursary.
RMIT University has announced a $10 million support package for students. Students can apply for emergency financial grants and technology grants. While the former is for students who are affected by loss of jobs and other financial issues related to covid19, the latter is to help students with their IT equipment and internet needs.
Curtin University is offering an $8 million worth of assistance package to its students. Housing support and financial bursary is available for students who are facing difficulties at the moment.
Deakin University said on Friday it had received over 1500 applications from students for immediate financial support, and had approved 730 so far.
Monash University has announced a scheme for $500 emergency grants to students which is being implemented immediately as well as longer term support for students who need it.
James Cook University has established a food pantry in Cairns and Townsville to help students with basic necessities.
International Travel restrictions:
Australia has imposed its highest level travel warning- level 4 travel ban for an indefinite period.
As of April 30, 2020,
- Australian nationals are banned from overseas travel, with a few exemptions.
- Only Australian citizens, permanent residents, and their immediate family members can enter Australia.
- All travellers need to self-quarantine for 14 days from the day they enter Australia.
If you or anyone you know holds a student visa or a temporary visa that is about to expire or if you are already UNLAWFUL
Contact us URGENTLY and through the ABG Holding’s Legal Department we maybe able to assist.
