Protection for International Students
Australia has legal protection for overseas students studying in Australia. The Commonwealth Government's Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000 governs an education institution's responsibility towards overseas students studying in Australia.
If you have a question about your rights and responsibilities as an international student, first discuss with the international student office in your institution. If you need further information, you can contact the Australian Government’s Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations who will either answer your question or refer you to the correct agency for assistance.
- General enquiries phone: 1300 363 079
- International: +61 354 545 245
- Text Telephone for the hearing impaired (TTY): FreeCALL TM 1800 554 609
- Interpreter Service
- Switchboard: 13 33 97
- Online Enquiry Form for enquiries and feedback
Human rights
As well as protection for overseas students studying in Australia, the human rights of all people living in Victoria are valued and protected within government and the community by the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006.Legal advice
The International Student Legal Advice Clinic is a free legal and referral service for international students living in Melbourne. They run a drop-in clinic on Wednesday nights in Melbourne's CBD. Read more about accessing advice from legal professionals and migration agents at the clinic.
