21 April 2020
UniSA Vice-Chancellor Professor David Lloyd has welcomed the State Government’s announcement today of a $13.8 million support package for South Australia’s international education sector.
Along with the University of Adelaide and Flinders University, UniSA will share the proceeds of a $10 million fund for international students significantly impacted by Covid-19.
A $500 emergency cash grant will be made to other international students living in South Australia who are significantly impacted by the coronavirus restrictions, and a one-off $200 assistance payment per student living with local families will be provided to their host family.
Professor Lloyd says the State Government’s initiative is “greatly appreciated” and augments UniSA’s $10 million hardship fund announced last week for its onshore students.
“International education remains a cornerstone of South Australia’s economy, reflecting the diversity of our society and contributing to the vibrancy of our State.
“The State Government’s support is a clear signal of how important our students are to our city and to our State, and that their welfare is of paramount concern to us all in these difficult times.
“We look forward to a return to more normal times and to continuing to deliver an outstanding South Australian experience for all international students based here.”
In announcing the package, SA Minister for Trade and Investment David Ridgeway said that international education was the State’s largest export sector, contributing $1.92 billion to South Australia’s economy, with more than half of this spent in the local community.
“Every four international student enrolments creates one new job, but the benefits to the State go way beyond that. They contribute to our community in countless ways as well as strengthening our global connections and we are keen to ensure they are supported at this difficult and uncertain time.”
“Ensuring international students are supported as much as possible will assist in maintaining South Australia’s global reputation for international education and will provide peace of mind for the families of these students living thousands of kilometres away from them as we face such an uncertain time.”
Study Adelaide Chief Executive Karyn Kent said international students have been finding it tough during Covid-19.
“The number one concern expressed by all our education providers has been for the welfare of their international students and we expect this announcement to be a welcome relief for students and providers alike,” Ms Kent said.
Eligible international students will be able to apply for support through the Department of Human Services (DHS). More information can be found on the Study Adelaide website.
Media contact: Candy Gibson office +61 8 8302 0961 mobile: +61 434 605 142
email: candy.gibson@unisa.edu.au;
