Minister meets Indian community in Melbourne
The Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, today met representatives from the Indian community in Melbourne to listen directly to their views on the recent incidents involving Indian students.
The minister reassured the Indian community that the Australian Government welcomes students from India and values their decision in coming to Australia to further their studies.
Australia is a tolerant, multicultural society that prides itself on its diversity and the Rudd Government takes very seriously Australia's reputation as a safe destination for international students seeking high quality education.
Nearly 500 000 international students were enrolled in Australian institutions last year, including more than 90 000 students from India.
All Australians have been shocked and appalled by reports of violence against international students. Such attacks will not be tolerated and the Rudd Government has joined community leaders in condemning these crimes.
Criminal behaviour is unacceptable in Australia. The Australian Government is encouraging the Indian community, including international students, to remain calm and work with the Victoria and New South Wales Police to catch the people responsible for these crimes.
The minister reassured the community representatives that the reporting of incidents to police will not impact on the visa status of international students.
The Prime Minister has established a Taskforce on Crimes Against International Students under the leadership of the National Security Adviser to coordinate action across all levels of government. Steps have already been taken to increase protection for the student community including increased police operations and public safety information sessions.
Last week the Deputy Prime Minister announced a number of initiatives to promote and protect international student welfare. These include:
- an International Student Taskforce within her department to develop strategies to support the wellbeing of international students
- a student hotline (1300 363 079) through which students can raise concerns anonymously and view online
See: www.studyinaustralia.gov.au - fast-tracking a review of the legal framework for the provision of education services to international students, the Education Services for Overseas (ESOS) Act 2002
and - updating the Guide to Studying and Living in Australia to help new students to settle into their Australian life and study.
URL: http://www.minister.immi.gov.au
/media/media-releases/2009/ce09056.htm
Last update: 19 June 2009 at 19:24 AEST