This Article is From May 26, 2010

'Culture Cards' for international students in Australia

Melbourne: Over 1.6 lakh international students, including those from India will be given a 'Culture Card' by the Victorian government which will enable them to attend some of the city's best cultural events.

The 'Culture Card' was launched on Tuesday by Skills and Workforce Participation Minister Bronwyn Pike, Committee for Melbourne CEO Andrew MacLeod and North Melbourne Football Club Captain Drew Petrie.

According to an official statement, the new move will give international students living in Victoria a virtual key to some of the state's best attractions.

Pike said the Culture Card would ensure international students get the best from their study experience in Victoria.

"The Culture Card will be available free to every international student living in Victoria. The card will help students get a better understanding of Victoria's culture, our obsession with sport and food, and our interests in zoos, parks and gardens," she said.

Victoria has 1.65 lakh international students, majority of whom are from India and China.

Pike said the Culture Card was part of the local Government's plan to ensure international students get a warm welcome when they arrive in Victoria.

"Combined with the Culture Card, we now have a suite of services that are providing international students with the support, information and assistance they need."

MacLeod said Culture Cards would be distributed through universities and education providers when international students arrive in Melbourne.

"The Brumby Government provided USD 100,000 through the Thinking Global Action Plan to the Committee for Melbourne to deliver the Culture Card," he said.
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