Highlights
- $200 worth vouchers for 1000 students.
- International students studying in Melbourne and experiencing hardship eligible for the voucher.
- Vouchers can be redeemed at Queen Victoria Market in Melbourne.
International students affected by job losses and housing insecurity will be able to access these vouchers worth $200 to spend at Queen Victoria Market located in Melbourne CBD.
“We are a caring city and we need to look after each other. We know many students are isolated and far from home. We have a responsibility to make sure they can make ends meet and continue to feel welcomed and included in our community,” Lord Mayor Sally Capp said.
“The COVID-19 crisis has had a devastating impact on this group and on Victoria’s international student economy, which is worth $9.1 billion a year. We’re responding with a direct stimulus to support students and provide a revenue boost for Queen Victoria Market traders.
“As we move towards reopening our economy we must step up and keep supporting our education sector.”
Ahmed Ademoglu, the National President of Council of International Students Australia (CISA) welcomed the initiative and said international students need support and help.
“They are one of the vulnerable group impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak. It has taken an emotional toll on them with many not able to buy food and afford accommodation as many have lost their source of income,” Mr Ademoglu told SBS Hindi.
“They need empathy and such measures which help them deal with the stress will, in turn, help them focus on their studies,” he said.
International student at Queen Vic Market Source: CIty of MElbourne
How to avail the vouchers?
Applications will close at 5 pm on Friday, May 22.
To be eligible, the person should be an international student, live and/or study in the City of Melbourne Municipality, provide a copy or photo of valid and current student ID, provide a copy or photo of valid and current student visa and be in genuine need of food assistance due to financial hardship.
Each successful applicant will receive $200 worth of vouchers.
The food voucher program is only available to 1000 students and the vouchers will be available for collection from Melbourne Town Hall from Tuesday, May 26.
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