International students are doing it tough. Despite contributing $37.6
billion to the Australian economy last year, they are not eligible to receive any
government support during these difficult times.
ECU, like many universities in Australia, is doing all it can to support our students during this difficult time. It has dedicated $2 million to provide support grants to students who are facing extreme economic hardship, but it’s just not enough.
My team has already received over 3000 applications from students facing one of the most difficult times of their life. Every day in my job as a Student Success Officer, I hear stories from students who have lost their jobs and are now forced to decide to spend their last $100 dollars on groceries or repaying back rent in fear of being evicted.
Support from students’ families is not an option for many due to effects that COVID-19 has had on their home countries. Going home is also not possible for many students as borders have closed or transportation is just not available.
ECU, like many universities in Australia, is doing all it can to support our students during this difficult time. It has dedicated $2 million to provide support grants to students who are facing extreme economic hardship, but it’s just not enough.
My team has already received over 3000 applications from students facing one of the most difficult times of their life. Every day in my job as a Student Success Officer, I hear stories from students who have lost their jobs and are now forced to decide to spend their last $100 dollars on groceries or repaying back rent in fear of being evicted.
Support from students’ families is not an option for many due to effects that COVID-19 has had on their home countries. Going home is also not possible for many students as borders have closed or transportation is just not available.
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