In Victoria, the lockdown is beginning to ease but we understand that the financial situation of many international students continues to be difficult. The International Student Services Team is pleased to share some information to help during this time:
Victorian Government International Student Emergency Relief Fund reopened!
The International Student Emergency Relief Fund supports international students in Victoria who are facing financial hardship through lost wages and work as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The fund provides a one-off payment of $1,100.
To check your eligibility and to apply online please visit the La Trobe International Student Emergency Relief Fund page. Applications are open now and close on 4 October, 2020.
Please refer to Study Melbourne’s page for a list of acceptable supporting documents or contact La Trobe International Student Services on 9479 1199 or via Ask a Question if you have questions about the application process.
Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) Refund
The SSAF is a compulsory fee to cover non-academic support services. In recognition of the change of services under COVID19, La Trobe is refunding the 50% of the Semester 2 and Terms fee = $77.
Simply fill out the SSAF Application for Refund, and submit to LTIFinance@latrobe.edu.au with the subject line “SSAF Refund Semester 2 /Terms – Student ID”. Unfortunately, sponsored students are not eligible for this refund.
To receive the refund you must:
• Be enrolled for Semester 2, 2020 or 2 consecutive Terms
• Have paid your fees
• Include an Australian Bank Account
Webinar on how to access the Victorian Government Rent Relief Scheme
Come along and join this free information session for La Trobe international students on how to access the Victorian Government rental assistance fund that can provide rent relief payments of up to $3,000 to people experiencing rental hardship due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Presented by the La Trobe Student Union legal advisor and West Heidelberg Community Legal Service, especially for international students who may be experience rental stress during COVID19.
Follow the La Trobe International Student Services Facebook page for session dates, details and registration links.
Get Connected and Make Friends Online
And finally, we know that lockdown can be lonely, so we’ve put together a great resource on how to connect with others during this time. Check out our handy list of online social gatherings.
If you’d like to talk to an International Student Services coordinator please call +61 3 9479 1199 (if you’re outside Australia, call +61 2 8905 0973) or send us a request via www.latrobe.edu.au/ask-us and we’ll be in touch.
Take care, stay safe, and we can’t wait to see you in person again soon.