In Tasmania, members have assisted foreign students who do not qualify for support from either the Commonwealth or State governments, by providing emergency food hampers. Many have lost their student jobs necessary to pay for their rent, food, tuition, transport and are unable to fly home during the pandemic.

Pedro (pictured) is a UTAS post graduate student who works as a casual employee in the hospitality sector. As a foreign student Visa holder with two dependants (his spouse and their one year old child),  neither his wife or he qualify for Jobkeeper or Jobseeker and exclusively rely on their own earnings. Their income has been severely impacted by the  Covid-19 pandemic.

“I would like to thank you for the groceries I received. It’s really helpful in these difficult times. Thank you very much for your generosity.”