The centre is part of the government’s AUS$17.5 million five-year international education strategy announced last year and will provide health, legal, accommodation and safety support. It will also be the new location for the International Student Care Service which provided case work support to over 900 students last year.

With over 140,000 foreign students studying in Victoria in 2013, Minister for Employment and Trade Louise Asher said the government is committed to providing them with a welcoming place where they can receive assistance.

“International Education is Victoria’s number one export and this Study Melbourne Student Centre will provide 24 hour, seven day a week information and support for international students,” she commented.

The centre will provide 24 hour support and information seven days a week

“We want to make sure that international students have the best possible experience when they come to Melbourne and Victoria to study.”

Financial management services are also available to students at the centre as well as professional support for students dealing with personal crises.

Students can also learn about government programmes like the Study Melbourne Internship Program, Study Melbourne Sports and the Public Transport Discount Scheme for International Students.

Other initiatives the government has rolled out as part of its international education strategy include a Student Welcome Desk at Melbourne Airport, a free culture card and Study Melbourne International Student Information Days.

Commemorating the launch of the centre, the government hosted a photography competition inviting international students to submit a photo that captured their time living and studying in Victoria.

Selected photographs will be displayed at the centre and the winning entrants, Diego Barragn and Long Hei Yu, will recieve a two-day tour to a regional Victorian destination of their choice.

“The winning entries provide an invaluable insight into what international students value and want to share about their study experience in our state,” commented Asher.