PA/17/09 19 June 2009
This media release from the Australian High Commission, New Delhi contains:
1. Media Release from the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans on his meeting with the Indian community in Melbourne.
2. Media Release from Cricket Victoria about cooperation with Indian students in Melbourne.
For further information, please contact the Public Affairs Section on 011 4139 9900.
Minister Meets Indian Community in Melbourne
The Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, today met representatives from the Indian community in Melbourne to listen directly to their views on the recent incidents involving Indian students.
The Minister reassured the Indian community that the Australian Government welcomes students from India and values their decision in coming to Australia to further their studies.
Australia is a tolerant, multicultural society that prides itself on its diversity and the Rudd Government takes very seriously Australia's reputation as a safe destination for international students seeking high quality education.
Nearly 500 000 international students were enrolled in Australian institutions last year, including more than 90 000 students from India.
All Australians have been shocked and appalled by reports of violence against international students. Such attacks will not be tolerated and the Rudd Government has joined community leaders in condemning these crimes.
Criminal behaviour is unacceptable in Australia. The Australian Government is encouraging the Indian community, including international students, to remain calm and work with the Victoria and New South Wales Police to catch the people responsible for these crimes.
The Minister reassured the community representatives that the reporting of incidents to police will not impact on the visa status of international students.
The Prime Minister has established a Taskforce on Crimes Against International Students under the leadership of the National Security Adviser to coordinate action across all levels of government. Steps have already been taken to increase protection for the student community including increased police operations and public safety information sessions.
Last week the Deputy Prime Minister announced a number of initiatives to promote and protect international student welfare. These include:
* An International Student Taskforce within her department to develop strategies to support the wellbeing of international students;
* A student hotline (1300 363 079) through which students can raise concerns anonymously and view online www.studyinaustralia.gov.au ;
* fast-tracking a review of the legal framework for the provision of education services to international students, the Education Services for Overseas (ESOS) Act 2002; and
* updating the Guide to Studying and Living in Australia to help new students to settle into their Australian life and study.
Hodge's Harmony Pitch a Hit for Indian Students and Police
Victorian and Australian cricketer Brad Hodge today joined Indian students and members of Victoria Police on the cricket pitch to promote a message of harmony.
Representatives of the groups formed mixed teams to take part in a game of Laneway Cricket in Melbourne's CBD.
The initiative is an extension of programs Cricket Victoria and partner organisations have conducted over several years to promote multiculturalism in cricket.
Hodge, a student, has strong connections with India, having toured the subcontinent with the Australian team and played alongside many Indians in the IPL.
"Whenever any Australian cricketers go to India, we're welcomed with open arms," he said.
"Today is about standing alongside Indians who've come to Australia and letting them know that we welcome them, and value highly their contribution to our country."
Federation of Indian Students in Australia (FISA) President Amit Menghani welcomed the support.
"It is wonderful to see such a positive initiative from the cricket community and the Victorian Police," he said.
"Recent weeks have been extremely tough so it's most heartening to see cricket helping reinforce the need for mutual understanding and respect. There remains work to be done but even little events like these can go a long way."
Footscray-based Community Liaison Officer Leading Senior Constable Craig Spicer said the cricket match helped improve on relationships between police and the Indian sub-continent community.
"Having a game of backyard cricket really is a simple concept but the benefits are amazing," he said.
"Not only is it an avenue for police to interact with the Indian community and to better understand their culture, but it also helps increase the Indian community's confidence to approach us."
Cricket Australia Chief Executive James Sutherland added his support to the initiative.
"Cricket, being a common passion of Australia and India, including our many Indian friends who live in Australia, hopes it can play a role in positive relationship building. All those involved in today should be congratulated for their continuing commitment to fostering these relationships."
Participants in today's match were presented with passes to the National Sports Museum at the MCG, courtesy of the Melbourne Cricket Club.