STUDENT SUPPORT
VIA provides various support services to ensure your time with us is as enjoyable and rewarding as possible.
Orientation Session
You must attend the student orientation session to receive critical information and complete registration. You will receive an orientation email at least a week before the session.
Counselling
VIA can support you on a wide range of issues, including:
- Accommodation and homestay
- Academic progress and further study opportunities
- Meeting your visa requirements
- Finding legal, health and medical services
- External counselling services for mediation and mental health issues
- Please see our Student Services Team at the Reception Desk to book an appointment.
Please see our staff at the Reception Desk to book an appointment with a student support person.
English and Academic Support
If you find your studies too difficult or need help with English in the classroom, it is important to let us know as soon as possible so we can help you. Please make an appointment at the Reception Desk to speak with one of our staff members about your options.
It may be possible to defer your studies to do an intensive English course, re-attempt an assessment you didn’t successfully complete, or re-enrol in classes you may have struggled in.
Please let us know after your orientation session if you have any special needs that will help during your time with us. Alternatively, please speak with our Student Support Team by making an appointment at the Reception Desk.
Healthcare providers
If you are on a student visa, you must hold an approved Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) policy for the entire duration of your stay in Australia.
In Australia, you usually visit a General Practitioner (GP) for most non-life-threatening medical conditions. GPs are doctors who work in medical centres across Sydney. Some medical centres offer 24-hour support.
You should go directly to a hospital for assessment and treatment in emergencies.
Other support providers
The following are not affiliated with VIA but may be helpful to know while you are completing your studies.
Emergencies
In the event of an emergency call 000 (zero-zero-zero) from any telephone. This emergency line will put you through to Police, the Fire Brigade or the Ambulance service.
Lifeline
Lifeline provides crisis support, suicide prevention and mental health support services across Australia. These can include stresses from work, family or society and physical and mental wellbeing. Call 13 11 14 for Lifeline.
Legal
Legal Aid NSW provides free legal advice via the Law Access NSW help line on 1300 888 529.
Workplace
For information about pay and work conditions for international students see Fair Work Ombudsman’s website.
If you believe you are not being treated fairly by your employer you can contact the workplace ombudsman for help, via www.fairwork.gov.au or by calling the Fair Work Ombudsman Help Line on 13 13 94.