The Deakin community is united in support of our Sri Lankan students and staff
Our Sri Lankan students and staff are a very important part of the Deakin community. We offer our full support in recognition of the devastating economic crisis that is currently unfolding in Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka is now facing fuel shortages and soaring food prices, with some Sri Lankans being forced to skip meals. This is a heartbreaking outcome for the entire Sri Lankan community.
Our thoughts and concerns are with our students located both in Australia and in Sri Lanka, as well as their families. If you need any support during this extremely challenging time, we encourage you to reach out by accessing the following services and resources.
Enrolment support
You can access a range of enrolment support, including course and unit advice, full-time and part-time study options, and intermission and visa compliance advice. Contact Student Central to discuss any concerns with your enrolment.
Academic and study support
If you need an assignment extension or want to discuss special consideration, you can contact the relevant academic teaching team in your unit site or access the existing special consideration process, in which you can include details of your difficulties.
We want to support you to achieve your study outcomes and goals and we offer range of academic study support through our Study Support resources and programs.
Financial support
A range of financial assistance options are available, including international students assistance grants for students located in Victoria, interest free loans and more – see the financial assistance webpage for more information. If you think you need significant support, please contact Student Central for advice.
Health and wellbeing support
During such a difficult time, it is essential you look after your physical and mental health and wellbeing. Students can access the following services:
- Deakin Medical Centre – consultations are free with your Overseas Health Cover (OSHC).
- Counselling and Psychological Support (CAPS) – provides free and confidential support from qualified counsellors and social workers to students located in Australia. If you’re located overseas, the Student Assistance Program offers free support and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Disability support – if you have a disability, health or mental health condition that affects your study or participation in uni life, the Disability Resource Centre (DRC) can help with information and services.
- Multifaith chaplains – offering compassionate support to everyone, whether you’re religious or not.
Specialist international student support
The International Student Support (ISS) team can help you with:
- general and personal issues that may affect your ability to study
- homesickness and social/cultural adjustment issues
- referrals to other key services at Deakin and within the community.
If you think you need this kind of support, please contact Student Central, who can assess your situation and refer you to an International Student Support Officer (ISSO).
Additional support and advice is also available through Study Melbourne.
DUSA support
Deakin’s student union can help you in a range of ways, including through:
Deakin is extremely proud of our multicultural and vibrant student community – diversity is one of our core values and biggest strengths. Our Sri Lankan community is a much-valued part of that family and the support of the entire University community is with everyone impacted.