The events are also meant to be practical, enabling international students to network with potential employers, and build up their information resources about the city.

“These ceremonies aim to encourage international students to stay associated with Brisbane in the long-term and spread the word about Brisbane as a new world city,” Cr Quirk said.

“For many, studying in Brisbane is the beginning of a lifelong relationship with the Brisbane community as they maintain personal and business connections to the city long after graduation.”

Video highlights of the ceremony

Griffith University Vice Chancellor, Professor Ian O’Connor, said the university’s student body included more than 11,000 international students from 130 different countries.

“The Lord Mayor’s International Student Friendship Ceremonies are a brilliant opportunity to welcome students and applaud them for choosing Brisbane as their study destination,” Professor O’Connor said.

“A brilliant opportunity to welcome students and applaud them for choosing Brisbane”

“Griffith University ranks in the top five per cent of the world’s universities and our international students enhance our global reputation. It’s important we take the time to thank them and help them feel at home here.”

International education generates AUS$5.1 billion dollars in course fees and other spending which makes it Brisbane’s biggest export market.

Further ceremonies will be held in Brisbane, including one at Queensland University of Technology. The ceremonies were first held in July 2012.