Melbourne is now in Stage 4 restrictions. We must all stay within 5 km of our homes, observe the curfew from 8pm to 5am and more. Please, be smart, be safe and follow directions from the Victorian Government.

Connect with other international students through authentic story sharing and theatrical improvisation. Story IS Connection provides a fun and empathetic space where you can watch the improvised performances and share your feelings in a non-judgemental environment. Online via Zoom starting 6.30pm to 7.45pm, Wednesday 16 September, and continuing through September and October. Free. Book now. Photo: Andrew Coulter. 

Communicating under pressure can be hard. This workshop will give you practical science-based strategies to succeed at job interviews, the workplace and daily life. It is facilitated by Sarah Lobegeiger De Rodriguez, speech and language pathologist, opera singer and the director of Voice Science™. Presented as part of the City of Melbourne’s Connect and Learn Series. Free. Book now.

Join North Melbourne Football Club and The Huddle for a free virtual welcome to AFL event for international students on Zoom. Learn the unique skills and rules of AFL ahead of the exciting 2020 Toyota AFL Finals Series. Presented as part of the City of Melbourne's Connect and Learn series for our international student community. 5.30pm, Thursday 17 September. Free. Book now.

Through a 12-week online program, eight young artists have developed a solo screen or sound work and collaborated with another commissioned artist to create a second audio visual piece. Watch the launch live on Facebook on Friday 11 September at 5.30pm.

How do writers from diverse backgrounds imagine other realities as a form of survival? Join the next Melbourne Conversations hosted by award-winning novelist Michael Mohammed Ahmad. Free. Book now.

Australia’s first digital startup festival for international students has arrived. Get your free ticket to a multi-day event featuring workshops, expert panels, and pitching and funding opportunities thanks to Study Melbourne and the State Library of Victoria’s StartSpace. Plus, don’t miss your opportunity to win your share of $3500 at the Startup Pitch Competition. Explore the full program and register now.

Bored of eating alone? Still want to meet locals and make new friends while self-isolating? Welcome Dinners are events where you can meet locals and share food and conversation. The Welcome Dinner Project is currently organising Virtual Welcome Dinners online so people can continue to make new connections and eat with others, making time at home less lonely. Book now for the event on 30 September or follow the Facebook page for upcoming events. 

Following on from the success of Friday Nights at Home’s ISOVision2020, City of Melbourne supported three of the stars - Rachelle, Kishan and Lyanna - to participate in the 2020 Chengdu International Sister Cities Youth Music Festival. This annual music event promotes friendship and international exchanges. Check out the performances by Oceania participants now.

NexStar Indonesia Sprint gives students and startups a greater understanding of Indonesia, its culture, advancing sectors and business opportunities. Work with Australian startups over five days to build a market entry strategy to do business in Indonesia. Learn about cultural differences between Australia and Indonesia. Broaden your network and make new friends. Free. Apply now.

The Victorian Government’s $45 million International Student Emergency Relief Fund supports international students in Victoria who are facing financial hardship through lost wages and work as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Find info here to help you apply.

Relax to ambient tracks from local artists on Looking Out, Looking In Volume 5. Let the music guide you to listen mindfully, discover, think, feel and appreciate being in the moment. Curated by Rings Around Saturn and Emelyne Khor. 

Are you a podcaster, musician, sculptor, writer, performance artist or creative of any kind? Apply now and you could receive up to $20,000 to take your creative project to the next level. Applications close 28 September.

Build leadership skills to step up and lead positive social change in preventing violence against women. AMES Australia is offering a free high level training course to Chinese individuals who are commited to addressing gender inequality. Classes will be conducted via Zoom and will be primarily in English, supplemented by Cantonese and Mandarin. No prior experience required, however a commitment to addressing gender inequality is essential.

Queen Victoria Market is open to locals and offers a great selection of meat, fish, fruit, vegetables, dairy, deli items, eggs, bread and more. Please ensure that when you visit the market you are shopping within 5 km of your home, wearing a mask and physical distancing. Open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. And if you prefer to shop online a number of traders are offering a delivery service.

• International student resources
• Community Food Guide
• Melbourne International Student Hub
• Online English Conversation Clubs
• Free online fitness programs