Our volunteering international student programs, delivered in partnership with Study NSW and Communiteer, has attracted thousands of students looking to get involved in local NSW communities over the last 2 years.
Building on this achievement, we’re excited to introduce our new initiative—LIVE in NSW: Learn, Immerse, Volunteer, Explore.
This initiative will involve supporting universities and students across the state to deliver meaningful and cost-effective community engagement activities. With input from community, student, and university stakeholders, our programs are tailored to the evolving needs of international students throughout their university journey. This gives them the chance to immerse themselves in Australian culture while making a meaningful impact on local communities.
Our Community
In our role as an aggregator, advisor and amplifier, we form and maintain reciprocal partnerships between Australian universities, volunteer-involving organisations, government, and industry.
- Since August 2022, we have engaged:
- 1800+ international students;
- Representing 30+ universities; and
- Volunteering 9000+ hours.
Toshi Kawaguchi, Director at Study NSW
“We’re all about helping to welcome other international students, but we love the fact that through this program you were also picking up that experience and a sense of community.”
Siyuan Cheng, Welcome Desk Volunteer
“I believe that your study experience will reach its full potential by signing up to be a volunteer and meeting people from diverse backgrounds. Together, we can make this society a better place.”
Priyen Pindoria, Buddy Volunteer
“I had a buddy show me around when I was new. For some of my friends, it was the difference between staying in Australia and returning home. Having someone to talk to, and ask for help when you are in a whole new world is everything.”
Our Goals
The international student programs as part of this initiative have the following objectives:
Learning: Provide opportunities for international students to gain skills, experience & accreditation.
Social License: Enrich student pathways that also strengthen relationships with each other, community and industry.
Global Citizenship: Align learning outcomes to real-world challenges and drive social impact for local communities.
Promoting NSW: Create a positive first impression of NSW informed through community engagement and student co-design.
Our International Student Programs
Each program includes relevant training, communications material and ongoing volunteer support.
International Student Welcome Desk
Student volunteers are trained and coordinated to welcome arriving students at Sydney & Newcastle airports.
Buddy Program
Newly arrived international students are matched with experienced international students who study or live nearby to be a guide to settling into local life.
Local Volunteering Events
A variety of fun and social volunteering events suitable for international students are regularly promoted on behalf of our community partners.
Get Involved
As the sector navigates ambiguity, volunteering is a scalable and meaningful way to enrich the international student journey while also strengthening relationships with the local communities in which they study and live.
See how this initiative can align with your existing student services.
