Welfare support

​It's important to us that you feel safe, happy and cared for, and that you receive all the support you need while you're living here and studying at one of our schools.

In Victoria, a caring network of principals, international student coordinators, teachers, school counsellors, friends and homestay families are all available to provide support to international students for all their needs. Our expert and caring international student coordinators are even available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to support you.

This may be your first time living away from home or visiting another country. You may feel nervous, but your safety and happiness are really important to us from the moment you arrive in Victoria, right up until your final day at school.

 Our responsibility for you

You might choose to live with a homestay family instead of a parent, guardian or relative. If you choose this option, the Victorian Government takes full responsibility for your welfare in Australia.

The Department of Education and Training and staff at your school share this support role.

Together, we provide:

• information on safety and wellbeing
• safe and inclusive environments for students from diverse backgrounds
• access to other health professionals and services.

Right school

We make sure that every school hosting international students is the best it can be.

This means, you'll get the kind of education, care and support that you need to be happy and successful in your studies.

Our schools have gone through a strict accreditation process and a regularly reviewed to ensure the highest standards of student education, safety, welfare and wellbeing services. Many school staff are trained in how to assist with the unique needs of international students. 

The right homestay family

Your school selects the best match for both you and your new family, guiding you along the way.

Your school will only select a homestay family who they know will support you while you're getting used to your new life in Australia and will give them regular advice on how to help you fit in and thrive. Our homestay families are sourced by schools from their local community. 

Dedicated support

The international student coordinator at your school is likely to be the most important contact when you arrive and they:

• understand what most international students feel and go through
• can give you advice on how to make the most of your experience
• keep your parents involved and informed with written reports in your native language
• provide regular phone and video meetings, with parents, relatives or guardians at least once a year.
  

Have a voice to be heard

We know that everyone is unique, and we'll give you the chance to tell us what YOU need.

Your international student coordinator and teachers are always there to listen to your concerns and help you overcome any challenges.

There are also plenty of student voice and leadership activities to help you create the kind of school environment that you want to see. Plus you'll get to develop your English language and leadership skills too. 

Staff who understand what international students need

Our schools have staff who have lots of experience with international student support:

• A school leader such as the Principal or Assistant Principal has a duty of care for your wellbeing (under Australian international student legislation).
• Your International Student Coordinator is your main contact for questions, queries and issues, and they’ll manage your accommodation.
• Multicultural or language aides help you with cultural and language issues.
• English as an Additional Language (EAL) teachers give you English language support and guidance.
• Careers advisors help you work out your pathway to further education and the workforce.
• Year level coordinators are responsible for entire year levels and work closely with careers advisors, EAL teachers and other leaders within the school.
• Nurses and counsellors help with your health and wellbeing.

Dedicated support

Your International Student Coordinator is probably the most important contact when you arrive. They understand what most international students feel and go through and can give you advice on making the most of your experience.

They also keep your parents involved and informed with written reports in your native language, regular phone calls and face-to-face meetings at least once a year.

Have a voice and be heard

We know that everyone is unique, and we'll give you the chance to tell us what YOU need.

Your international student coordinator and teachers are always there to listen to your concerns and help you overcome any challenges.

There are also plenty of student voice and leadership activities to help you create the kind of school environment that you want to see. Plus you'll get to develop your English language and leadership skills too. 

Orientation and ongoing school support

• All of our schools have an orientation program and ongoing help for you to settle in. This includes information and advice on:

  • your learning program and academic progress
  • buying books, uniforms and other school items
  • counselling, healthcare and personal safety
  • managing finances and meeting visa requirements
  • making new friends and joining social or community networks
  • adjusting to a new culture
  • getting around your local area
  • activities during and outside of school
  • making the most of your homestay experience
  • subject selection, careers and pathways to tertiary education
  • tips for adjusting, coping and fitting back in when you return to your home country.
    

All students receive the following resources:

• a Pre-Departure and Homestay Guide (PDF, 1.9MB)
• an Orientation Pack (provided by your school)
• an Emergency Contact Card (provided to homestay students by your school).
  

Staff who understand what international students need

Our schools have experienced staff providing international student support: