Brave new world for students

AS the number of international students attending private registered training organisations (RTO) in Tasmania grows, some of the challenges they face such as housing and transport need to be addressed, according to a Survey of International Student Satisfaction released yesterday.

The survey reveals accommodation shortages are the most significant challenge facing international students, as well as public transport and integrating into the community.

There are about 4600 students in RTOs, as well as 5500 studying at the University of Tasmania.

Students are estimated to contribute $132 million to the Tasmanian economy.

Professor Peter Frappell said students often had dependants, meaning the economic and social impact was much more significant.

“These students bring into the state not only cultural diversity and financial benefit, but they bring a large number of family members with them.

“For every 100 students we’re seeing 60-odd family, spouses, children, etc.”

Even though many students report coming to Tasmania for the environment and nature, many also struggle to cope with the weather.

Only 5 per cent have fulltime jobs and say finding work is extremely difficult.

Most international students live in the northern suburbs, central Hobart and Sandy Bay.

Sinong Liu came to Hobart in 2017 to study accounting.

She completed her studies and, after six months searching, found a job.

“I was lucky,” she said. “I also had a hard time getting a house, but after 30 applications I was lucky there, too. I love Hobart, it’s a very liveable city. I’m from China where there’s a huge population, so I find it quite relaxing here.”