Support for temporary visa holders coming from state government
As the federal government continues to provide no support to temporary visa holders, some states are taking matters into their own hands.
The ACT has followed Tasmania’s lead in providing financial support to temporary visa holders who have lost their jobs or work hours and are facing financial hardship as a result of the coronavirus crisis.
The ACT has committed $450,000 in emergency relief which will be a welcome support package to many temporary visa holders who were feeling let down by the federal government.
Tasmania last week announced a $3 million package to support its temporary visa holders which would see them receive a one-off payment.
The temporary migrant workers in Australia have had a clear message from the federal government to ‘go home’, but for many this is not an option and have been left with uncertainty and concern about how they will support themselves as they lose jobs and work hours.
The temporary migrant workers in Australia who have contributed enormously to our cultural community as well as to our economy are starting to see some relief from state governments and we can only hope that more follow Tasmania and the ACT in providing support and make up for the lack of financial help from the federal government.
Along with Tasmania and the ACT, Victoria and South Australia state governments are both providing support for international students in financial hardship due to COVID-19.
Victoria will pay international students a one off payment of up to $1,100, while South Australia announced a $13.8 million relief package for international students.
