International Education Provider Forum

18 October 2017

Date: 18 October 2017

Over 140 delegates attended this year’s International Education Provider Forum 2017 on 18 October, co-organised by StudyNSW, City of Sydney and the NSW Police Force. Attendees included representatives from across NSW education providers and community organisations who came together to discuss important issues affecting international students in NSW.

This year’s forum focused on the mental health and wellbeing of international students in NSW, including insightful panel sessions about education provider perspectives and student stories. Delegates also had the opportunity to create new and strengthen existing connections during table discussions, a networking exhibition and, for the first time, the introduction of poster sessions.

Delegates heard about different approaches, programs and initiatives being delivered across institutions and how these are having a positive effect on the mental health and wellbeing of international students in NSW.

One of the students on the panel, Linus Faustin studying at University of Technology Sydney, said “I speak to many international students who have difficulties when first settling in and I always encourage them to seek help if they are struggling with their mental health.

“When I first arrived I managed to get a job at an accommodation house welcoming new students because people thought I was nice, but in my first week I couldn’t even pick up the phone to talk to students as I was too scared.

Peter Mackey, Director of International Trade at the NSW Department of Industry which oversees StudyNSW, said there were many challenges for international students arriving in a new country and ensuring they can access support is a priority.

“Through StudyNSW, the NSW Government is committed to supporting our international students who contribute significantly to our communities.”

StudyNSW is focused on ensuring international students have a positive experience studying and living in NSW. StudyNSW works closely with the NSW international education sector and with agencies across NSW Government in delivering initiatives which contribute positively to the mental health of NSW international students.