COVID-19 Relief: Mates International to provide AUD 200 financial assistance to 20 students


As the world continues to tackle the ongoing health crisis, a few are coming out to help others – one of them being Mates International Education & Visa Services. Attributing their success to the international students, the foundation of the education group, its Melbourne’s office announced their decision to provide AUD 200 to 20 students.

“The support is eligible for any student in Melbourne who has arrived on or after 1st Jan, 2020”, as per their Facebook page.Students do not have to have necessarily come to Melbourne via Mates International Education & Visa Services, rather any student who is in distress, and has arrived on/after 1st Jan 2020 is encouraged to apply.

It has also said if there are more than 20 applications, they will prioritise students who don’t have jobs, relatives (in Melbourne) and are most in need.

Commenting on the inspiration behind this noble act, Shanker Dharel, Director at Mates International Education and Visa Services Melbourne said the decision was arrived because his office were aware of the woes faced by international students.

“As we work very closely with international students, we are always aware of their problems. Newly arrived students weren’t prepared for the pandemic, and neither were their parents. We found students were struggling to cope with classes, losing their jobs, or finding it difficult to find a job. With the added pressure of restriction of mobility, shortage of food and other daily consumable goods, we were concerned about the welfare of the students. Therefore, we decided to come forward and help our students”, Mr. Dharel said.

“Furthermore, hopefully this initiative will also give a positive message to concerned bodies to extend their support to needy students during this difficult situation”, he added.

Students who meet the above mentioned criteria, and are in need of assistance are requested to contact Mates International Education and Visa Services Melbourne via email ([email protected]) explaining your situation.