Response - International Student Safety
16 Jul 2010
Statement by Education Adelaide’s Chair, Mr Bill Spurr and Chief Executive, Ms Denise von Wald
South Australia remains one of the safest, most supportive cities for international students, according to Education Adelaide - South Australia’s peak body for international education.
Adelaide police do not believe there is any evidence of racial motivation for the recent incidents involving a small group of international students in the city’s northern suburbs. Indian students involved in recent incidents have re-emphasised this in a meeting with the representative of the High Commissioner of India and the Lieutenant Governor of South Australia.
Education Adelaide emphasizes that surveys consistently have shown overwhelming community support for students from overseas.
In recent years, the number of overseas students in South Australia has grown significantly faster than the Australian average. Safety and the generous welcome international students receive in South Australia have been identified as two of the main reasons for the State’s continuing popularity as an international student destination.
Special services have been established to support international students living in South Australia and, among other things, advise them on personal safety.
Education Adelaide remains committed to working with the State Government, police, education institutions and the wider community to enhance Adelaide’s reputation as a dynamic, diverse and welcoming place to live and study.
The Premier of South Australia also condemns the recent incident, calling it a disgrace and he is committed to supporting international students in the State.
"This kind of activity will not be tolerated in South Australia and we will come down hard on anyone involved in it," he says. "We are seen internationally as one of the safest and most supportive multicultural communities.”
SA Police Superintendent Barry Lewis does not believe the incident was racially motivated and he urges all international students to seek help from the police if they feel vulnerable.
If students are feeling unsafe they should contact the BankSA Crime Stoppers hotline on 1800 333 000.
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