Applications are open for Victorian Government’s International Student Emergency Relief Fund

If you are facing financial hardship due to lost work and wage because of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, then you can apply to the Victorian Government’s $45 million International Student Emergency Relief Fund. It offers a one-off payment of up to $1,100 to eligible students, and applications are open. Delivered through Study Melbourne for the Victorian Government, the fund is available to support eligible international students who have lost work and wages due to the pandemic.

If you need any help in applying for the International Student Emergency Relief Fund or you can’t find the information you need on the Study Melbourne website, please contact Study Melbourne on 1800 056 449. They can also arrange for an interpreter if you need one.

Available support to help you submit a successful application

There is a range of support available to help you submit a successful application, including:

• a detailed Application Guide which includes examples of the documents you need to provide
• Frequently Asked Questionsto help you with your application questions
• translated reference examplesof the application form.

Tips to make a successful application

 You can also follow these tips to make a successful application for the Fund:

1. Confirm your eligibility before you start your application
2. Read the application support information, including the Application Guide (Stream Two)and Frequently Asked Questions 
3. Prepare your support documents before you start your application.
4. Only JPEG, PDF or PNG formats will be accepted. Learn more about Preparing supporting documents in the Application Guide.
5. Use a desktop or laptop computer to make the application, not a mobile device.
6. Check that all information is correct before submitting. If you provide incomplete or incorrect information your application cannot be processed.

More help is available 

In addition to the Fund, the Victorian Government offers extra assistance to international students who are facing hardship, including:

• a dedicated coronavirus (COVID-19) online support hub on the Study Melbourne website to link you with a wide range of support programs and services including a directory of community support and food relief
• one-off rent relief grants for people in rental hardship due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic
• help to find work opportunities through Working for Victoria
• access to free legal advice on accommodation and employment issues
• a range of free and confidential support, including access to mental health services through the Study Melbourne Student Centre

You can also join Study Melbourne on social media for regular updates on a range of free professional and personal development opportunities, support services, events and activities for international students in Victoria.