Strengthening connections and support for students

Strengthening connections and support for students

The RMIT Indian Club recently hosted an event that brought together students from across the Indian student community to connect with key organisations supporting international student life in Victoria.

“We help international students transition smoothly into life in Melbourne, making their first steps here easier and more welcoming.”

These words, spoken by RMIT Indian Club President Tathya Grover, captured the spirit of the event held at RMIT’s City campus on Thursday 11 September, where students explored safety, wellbeing, and community support.

A message from the Indian Consulate

Mr Tej Krishan, Head of Chancery at the Indian Consulate, encouraged students to embrace the full experience of studying abroad — academically, personally and culturally. He emphasised the importance of staying safe, following local laws and seeking support when needed.  

Mr Tej Krishan, Head of Chancery at the Indian Consulate in Melbourne, presents to students about available support and emphasises the importance of staying safe. Mr Tej Krishan, Head of Chancery at the Indian Consulate in Melbourne, presents to students about available support and emphasises the importance of staying safe

Staying safe in Australian waters

Jaimee Peney, Officer – Diversity and Inclusion Delivery (Outreach), shared practical advice for staying safe around water, noting that “Australian waters are strong” and that education is key.

Six key tips included:

  1. Swim with a friend – Never swim alone, especially in unfamiliar areas. 

  2. Swim between the flags – These zones are patrolled by lifeguards. 

  3. Read the signs – Warning signs provide crucial safety information. 

  4. Check the weather – Conditions can change quickly; always check forecasts. 

  5. Don’t drink alcohol and swim – Alcohol impairs judgment and increases risk. 

  6. Look out for rips – Rips appear as dark, calm patches with no waves. If caught in one, don’t swim against the current. Move sideways toward the waves or let the current carry you out until it eases. Then raise your arm to signal for help and stay calm.

Jaimee Peney from Life Saving Victoria presents to students about water safety. Jaimee Peney from Life Saving Victoria presents to students about water safety

Navigating safety and support in Melbourne

Leading Senior Constable Dinesh Nettur and Acting Sergeant Raj Sambamurthy shared tailored advice for international students, including reassurance that reporting crime does not affect visa status.  

Students were urged to be cautious of scams, especially when buying or selling online, and to consider meeting in front of a police station for Facebook Marketplace trades.  

Officers also encouraged students to keep copies of important documents and seek help when needed. 

Leading Senior Constable Dinesh Nettur and Acting Sergeant Raj Sambamurthy from Victoria Police deliver a presentation on crime prevention and personal safety to RMIT students. Leading Senior Constable Dinesh Nettur and Acting Sergeant Raj Sambamurthy from Victoria Police deliver a presentation on crime prevention and personal safety to RMIT students

Study Melbourne: Support beyond the classroom

Clare Harper, Senior Manager Student Programs at Study Melbourne, highlighted the wide range of services available to international students, including legal support, mental health resources, career development and community engagement. As a fun bonus, Study Melbourne also organised a giveaway of two double passes to the upcoming India vs Australia cricket match at the MCG, adding a touch of excitement to the day. 

Students were encouraged to visit the Study Melbourne Hub and explore programs designed to help them thrive in Victoria. 

Koala keychains provided by Study Melbourne as gifts for students. Koala keychains provided by Study Melbourne as gifts for students

Continuing the conversation

The event concluded with refreshments and networking, giving students the chance to connect with representatives from Study Melbourne, Life Saving Victoria, Victoria Police — and with each other. 

Students with Victoria Police representatives following presentations on crime prevention and personal safety. Students with Victoria Police representatives following presentations
Naveen Kamsani wins a double pass to India vs Australia cricket match at the MCG gifted by Study Melbourne Naveen Kamsani wins a double pass to India vs Australia cricket match at the MCG

More information

All RMIT students can access free health, safety and wellbeing support at RMIT.

Find out more about the Indian Student Club.

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

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