What is the Study Melbourne Inclusion Program (SMIP)?

The SMIP forms part of Victoria's International Education Recovery Plan 2025 and supports international students in Victoria. The program provides funding for activities that support and promote the wellbeing of international students and enhance their experience of living in this state.

The SMIP supports post-secondary international students studying at Victorian based universities, TAFEs, private higher education and vocational colleges, English language colleges and other registered training organisations. It does not fund activities that target students studying at higher learning institutions outside of Victoria.

Activities that may be considered for funding can focus on a range of topics, including (but not limited to): mental and physical health; volunteering and leadership; community engagement; arts and culture; health and safety.

Activities which support greater inclusion of women, LGBTIQA+ communities, people of colour and all faiths, people with disability and those from a broad spectrum of socio-economic backgrounds are also encouraged.

What is the program aiming to achieve?

SMIP’s goal is for international students to have positive, rewarding and enriching experiences during their time in Victoria.

The program aims to:

• ensure all international students enjoy studying and living in Victoria and feel a strong sense of belonging and connectedness to the local community
• enable capable organisations to deliver high quality activities that improve the wellbeing of post-secondary international students living in Victoria
• fund activities that respond to emerging needs of international student cohorts
• encourage activities that place international students at the centre; genuinely involving them in the design, delivery and review of projects
• build the capacity and capability of Victoria’s education ecosystem to offer inclusive and culturally appropriate services
• increase international students’ access to mental and physical support and information services
• increase international students’ social connections and create positive opportunities for them to get involved in the local community
• support greater engagement with students studying with regional providers and remotely, with equal access to wellbeing services and empowerment programs.

What level of funding is available?

The SMIP provides funding of up to $30,000 for organisations working in partnership to deliver activities that support and promote the wellbeing of international students.

When can you apply?

There will be one round of funding per calendar year for the SMIP.

Please note: late applications will not be accepted.