International Student Welcome Desk
Providing a friendly welcome to Sydney and NSW
The International Student Welcome Desk welcomes thousands of commencing students to NSW each year and provides a valuable experience for our volunteers.
The International Student Welcome Desk welcomes thousands of commencing students to NSW each year and provides a valuable experience for our volunteers.
Due to the COVID-19 outbreak and travel restrictions to Australia, the International Student Welcome Desk will be temporarily closed from 21 March 2020.
For the latest information on COVID-19 visit our information page
If you're a new international student we want you to feel welcome in our community and that is why we are committed to making your experience in NSW the best it can be. When you land at Sydney Airport please visit the International Student Welcome Desk to say hello to our friendly volunteers.
Eligible domestic and international students are encouraged to volunteer at the International Student Welcome Desk. Successful applicants will be provided with customer service training, a uniform, ongoing support and recognition from the Study NSW team. This work integrated learning opportunity can enhance your customer service, problem solving and communication skills.
The International Student Welcome Desk was established in July 2015 by Study NSW and partners from the NSW international education sector.
The project is co-funded by a consortium including Study NSW, Australian Catholic University, City of Sydney, Destination NSW, NSW Department of Education, English Australia, Macquarie University, Southern Cross University, TAFE NSW, Torrens University, University of Newcastle, University of New England, UNSW Australia, University of Sydney, University of Technology Sydney University of Wollongong, Western Sydney University, and is supported by the Council of International Students Australia (CISA).
Thank you to Sydney Airport for their ongoing support.
This program has been an invaluable experience. It provides an opportunity to connect with like-minded people from all over the world and develop communication, leadership, cultural, team work and problem-solving skills.
Volunteering at the International Student Welcome Desk has improved my communication skills, cultural intelligence and initiative. I had the opportunity to meet and help so many amazing people, and in return I receive their big smiles, relieved faces and gratitude.
My volunteer experience at the International Student Welcome Desk has helped me to hone my leadership skills and improve my intercultural competence. Further, through this role I have been able to give back to the community in a meaningful manner in addition to making life-long friends.