However, in recent times, many students are facing growing challenges from rising living
costs to visa uncertainties and work restrictions.
As President of Student Union Ind-Aus, Gurjinder Singh Gavy believes it is important to raise the voice of students and ensure their concerns are heard at every level.
International students contribute billions of dollars to the Australian economy each year. They also strengthen communities, bring cultural diversity, and build long-term ties between Australia and countries like India and around the world. Despite this, many students are struggling with high rents, limited work hours, and confusion around visa policies. Some students are working long hours just to pay rent. Others face delays in visa processing, uncertainty about future pathways, and mental stress due to financial pressure and isolation.
The Student Union Ind-Aus has identified several key concerns raised by students across different states:
• Rapidly increasing rental prices in major cities
• Difficulty finding safe and affordable accommodation
• Limited work hours despite high living expenses
• Exploitation in some workplaces
• Mental health challenges and social isolation
• Confusion around new visa rules and policy changes
These issues are not just personal struggles; they affect students’ academic performance,
well-being, and prospects. When young individuals carry emotional, financial, or social
burdens, it becomes increasingly difficult for them to concentrate on their studies,
participate actively in class, or maintain consistent attendance. Stress and anxiety can reduce
motivation, weaken memory retention, and ultimately lead to declining grades. Over time,
these academic setbacks may create a cycle of frustration and self-doubt, making it even
harder for students to regain confidence in their abilities.
Beyond academics, such challenges also impact students’ overall well-being. Persistent pressure can lead to mental health concerns, strained relationships, and a sense of isolation.
If left unaddressed, these struggles may influence career choices, limit opportunities, and shape long-term aspirations in unintended ways. “Supporting students through guidance, counselling, and a nurturing environment is therefore not just helpful—it is essential to ensuring they grow into resilient, capable individuals prepared to build a secure and successful future.”
Student Union Ind-Aus is urging universities, state governments, and federal authorities to collaborate more closely to enhance the overall experience of international students.
The call to action focuses on improving access to affordable student housing, ensuring fair and safe working conditions, providing clearer visa policies with faster processing timelines, expanding mental health and wellbeing services, and strengthening support programs for new international students.
Australia’s strength as an education destination depends on how it treats its students. A supportive environment will attract genuine students and strengthen the country’s global reputation.
“International students come to Australia with dreams — dreams of education, growth, and
a better future. As a society, the student union Ind-Aus must ensure that these dreams are supported, not burdened by uncertainty and hardship. The organisation stands with every student, and we continue to advocate for fairness, dignity, and opportunity for all, says Gurjinder Singh Gavy, President, Student Union Ind-Aus.
About Student Union Ind-Aus
Student Union Ind-Aus is a student-led organisation dedicated to support international students across Australia by promoting cultural unity, student welfare, and fair opportunities. The organisation is led by President Gurjinder Singh Gavy, supported by three board members and a core team of around 100 active members, with a wider network of more than 7,000 students connected across different states.
Students associated with the organisation come from every state of India, reflecting a diverse and inclusive national representation. Student Union Ind-Aus works closely with students, community groups, and institutions to address key challenges such as accommodation, employment rights, visa concerns, and mental wellbeing. Its main support services include airport pickup for new arrivals, job guidance, accommodation assistance, and general settlement support.
Through advocacy, awareness campaigns, and practical initiatives, the organisation aims to create a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where international students can succeed academically, socially, and professionally while building strong ties between Australia and their home countries.
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