COVID-19 Support - New South Wales

As we continue to remain in lock down following the NSW Government’s announcement, we understand that studying during this pandemic and lockdown can be challenging. Please check out the below information for the different types of support available to you at this time.

Financial Support
The Federal and NSW Government have released information on the COVID-19 Disaster Payment if you were employed prior to the lockdown and your employment has been affected due to the current lockdown. To receive the COVID-19 Disaster Payment, you will need to see if you meet the eligibility criteria. To start the process and to put a request in to lodge a claim for the COVID-19 Disaster Payment, all International Students are required to call the Australian Government Emergency Line on 180 22 66 and submit a verbal claim. 

If you have lost 20 or more hours of work, you could receive up to $600. If you have lost between eight and 20 hours of work, you can receive $375. For more information please visit COVID-19 Payment Information. 

Accommodation
If you are concerned about your rental payments, the NSW State Government has announced a temporary COVID-19 support package for tenants and landlords. There is now a 60 day freeze on evictions, therefore if you are experiencing financial difficulties and are unable to pay your rent due to COVID-19, you can't be evicted until 11th November 2021. We recommend if you are experiencing these difficulties, to contact your real estate agent or landlord to discuss your situation.

Other accommodation resources;

Wayside Chapel – 02 9581 9100

Ask Izzy

City of Sydney Community Hotline – 02 9265 9333

Sydwest Multicultural Services – 02 9621 6633

Household Energy and Gas Bills
We have included information for any student requiring assistance with their energy bills. Access to Energy Accounts Payment Assistance (EAPA) is a scheme through the NSW Government, which involves an eligibility assessment to prove reduced income due to the pandemic lockdown. You can apply online for EAPA vouchers, which are sent directly to the energy retailer. These vouchers are limited and are subject to assessment.

Mental Health
Mental Health support is important for our students so that you are able to manage your studies during this lockdown. 

Lifeline – 13 11 14

National Coronavirus Helpline – 1800 020 080

Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636

Kids Helpline – 1800 15 1800 (For young people up to age 25)

Griefline - 1300 845 745

Food Hampers
Our students are able to access food hampers or meals from the following services. Please use these resources for anyone who needs assistance. 

Foodbank NSW and ACT are providing International students with free food hampers. To request a hamper please use the online form to request or you can call them on 02 9756 3099. You will need your student ID number for the request form.

Uniting Harris Community Centre Emergency Food Support Service
97 Quarry St, Ultimo
P: 02 9552 1140
E: harriscentre@uniting.org
Open Monday to Thursday 10am – 4pm

OzHarvest
At the OzHarvest Market students can get a free food hamper.
95 Wellington St, Waterloo
During COVID lockdown period, customers are able to collect a hamper from outside the store between 10am – 2pm Tuesday to Saturday

Lou’s Place
Providing take away lunch at 12:30pm each day for female customers only.

Please stay safe and if necessary, seek further information by calling the Australian Government Coronavirus Health Information Line on 1800 020 080.