Swinburne International Student Association

Swinburne International Student Association (SISA) was formed in early 2002, to represent the voice for all International Students at Swinburne, be it their rights or welfare. We look after the interest of international students and do our best to improve their student life at Swinburne University.

SISA is a standing committee of Swinburne Student Union (SSU) and affiliated to the National Liaison Committee (NLC) for International Students in Australia.

Do not mistake us with Swinburne International(SI). SI is the administration department for international students whereas SISA consist of students working for students. Being international students ourselves, we understand most of the issues international students faced and we are working hard to improve international student life at Swinburne University.

SISA currently receives its funding from SSAA and get sponsorship from Swinburne International.

The executive committee of SISA is voted in during student union general election by students like you. All international students enrolled at Swinburne are automatically members of SISA.

1.To promote and facilitate the understanding and the principles of multiculturalism between international students and the Swinburne community.

2.To assist international students to the best of our abilities.

3.To liaise with the clubs, societies and other organisations within and outside the Swinburne community.

4.To encourage and enhance the participation of international students in campus life by organising events.

5.To further and protect the interests and welfare of Swinburne international students.

To date, SISA has over the years, have negotiated and brought to the attention of the University issues that have resulted in the following improvements to student welfare:

1. 24h Late Lab computer facilities at the Hawthorn Library

2. Improved administrative services at university departments about sensitivities when dealing with international students.

3. The introduction of installment payments for all students , so that the costs of education be be distributed over the year

3. The addition of an exclusive International Student Lounge at the UN Building.

4. Free Access to the Hawthorn Aquatic Centre for swimming facilities.

5. Change of Academic Policy that effects students to make it fair for all students.

However there is so much we can do, unless you , our dear international students start voicing out your concerns and tell us what bothers/disturbs you.

The following are the initiatives we are currently in negotiation with the university to have implemented . Help us by supporting us with your emails or assistance.

1. Industry Based Learning to be made accessible by International Students

2. Introduction of Transport Concessions for international and postgraduate Students, of which Victoria is one of the only states to be discriminating in this manner.

And importantly , we want to thank in special reference to the governing Swinburne University body for listening and understanding the concerns we have voiced out, and to previous Committee members for their dedication to the cause.