Message From CEO

Attacks on Indian students in Australia have attracted wide media attention. I have been as deeply disturbed by these reports as I am to see the responses which conclude that Australians are racist. I would like to take this opportunity to share my views on this important topic.
 

I do not believe the attacks were racially motivated. Crimes such as these are committed by cowardly or disturbed people that target people based on their vulnerability, often at random, and usually to steal mobile phones, iPods or other portable valuables. This vulnerability increases when someone is new to a city and working or socialising late at night, as many students do, regardless of gender or race.
 

In reality, Australian cities (and Melbourne in particular) are extremely safe places by world standards (see the 2009 Global Peace Index and the British Economist Intelligence Unit's 2009 Liveability survey). In addition, police everywhere are instituting measures to continually improve security and apprehend offenders.
 

However, I fully support that the international student community is voicing their concerns and strongly believe that more can be done to improve their living experience. The Australian economy benefits significantly by attracting students here and with this comes a responsibility that the government, education providers and other key stakeholders do more to ensure adequate support is available. I hope that the recent protests can be used to create dialogue that leads to an improved situation  and turns this adversity into advantage.
 

I would be delighted if you would share your thoughts on what Australia should do to remain attractive as a migrant destination (don’t forget to also participate in this month’s web poll on whether you think Australia is a racist country- your perception is important!). As always, my team and I will do our best to ensure that your voice is heard at the highest levels of government and the media.
 

Australia has a tremendous amount to offer and a strong future ahead, as confirmed by its resilience despite the current Global Economic Crisis (Australia was the only one of the world’s top 12 economies to show positive growth in the first quarter of this year according to the IMF and The Economist). I believe that our future productivity is tied to how well we continue to attract skilled migrants (including students) to our shores.
 

Wishing you and your families safety in the meantime.
 

Assyl