Minister Opens CISA National Conference 2015

Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Robin Scott, celebrated the role of international students in Victoria’s vibrant multicultural community, in his opening address today at the Council of International Students Australia (CISA) National Conference 2015.

The three-day CISA conference, themed ‘Celebrating Achievements, Together towards Tomorrow’, discusses sector challenges and opportunities for international students, including employability, housing and community engagement initiatives.

The conference’s key sponsors are the Victorian Government’s ‘Study Melbourne’ initiative, Deakin University and La Trobe University.

Minister Scott discussed the importance of a Whole-of-Government approach to multicultural affairs and keeping abreast of the experiences and needs of the international student community, to help promote Victoria as an attractive education destination and leader of international education.

He also reinforced a series of key Victorian Government student support initiatives to help address topics raised at the Victorian International Education Ministerial Advisory Roundtable, including:

  • Study Melbourne Internship Program to help connect Victorian businesses with talented international students for an internship, to develop employability skills for students;
  • Sponsorship of the first virtual international student global career fair in collaboration with Victorian education providers, the City of Melbourne and Global Education Solutions;
  • Free information and support services available at the Study Melbourne Student Centre

CISA is a key peak international student body for more than 400,000 international students enrolled in Australian tertiary education and is celebrating its 5th anniversary this year.

Melbourne and Victoria each year attract more than 160,000 international student enrolments. International education generated $4.7 billion in export earnings in 2013-14 making it Victoria’s largest single services export sector.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Robin Scott   

“Collaboration and learning from one another will help promote Victoria as an attractive destination for living and learning.”

“International students come from many places and their role in the community and economy is unique and valuable, which is why the Andrews Labor Government is introducing new and engaging ways to enhance their experience in Victoria.”

“Multiculturalism is a cornerstone of our community, and I congratulate the Council of International Students Australia for providing a voice for the international students who call Australia home during their time of study.”

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