Yesterday, the City of Melbourne published a statement that calls for international student support including the “establishment of a hardship fund” during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The Councillors & I have called for state & federal governments to support our international students during the COVID-19 pandemic & set up a hardship fund which could take contributions from the City of Melbourne, other levels of government, universities & the private sector,” Mayor Sally Capp posted on her Twitter.

She raised concern for a lack of recognition of international students’ contribution to the community during the crisis. There are approximately 20,000 international nursing students who may be called on to assist at the front line.

“Many international students play important roles at the front line of the fight against COVID-19, as researchers, student nurses, intern doctors, volunteers in hospitals and other health service providers,” she said.

Last week, PM Scott Morrison warned international students to “go home” unless they secure financial support amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Capp showed sympathy towards international students.

“We want to work collaboratively with our partners in state and federal government to give back to international students and support them through this challenging time.”

International students can find support regarding COVID-19 through the Victorian government website, Study Melbourne.

Photo: From Unsplash Taken by Weyne Yew @blurblock07