Whether you’re interested in building career skills, networking, or simply want to enjoy some leisure time, there are plenty of activities, events and workshops for international students to sink their teeth in during the holidays.
From Sydney to Perth and everywhere in between, we’ve put together a guide on the best summer programs and volunteering opportunities – both virtual and in-person – for international students in Australia.
Melbourne
Study Melbourne has curated an excellent collection of summer programs for international students in Melbourne. You’ll find workshops such as Career Catalyst, which offers coaching services and premium networking events to get you career-ready, or get social and join other international students in weekly badminton tournaments.
If you’d like to brush up on your English language skills, the City Library is hosting an English Learners Book Club on the first Wednesday of every month, where English learners can meet in a friendly setting to discuss books and share ideas.
Sydney
If you’re still getting to know the city, the Discover NSW Arrive Program has you covered with workshops and quizzes to teach you everything you need to know about living in NSW as an international student. The course is free to download through Teachable.
If you’re looking to continue your studies, you can explore the NSW Government’s virtual internship program to help students build skills and develop insight into what it’s like to work in NSW. You can also discover the Cultural Competence Program, a course designed to help individuals build capabilities around cultural diversity while gaining practical skills and culturally specific knowledge. There are also a number of volunteering opportunities through the Study NSW website.
Don’t forget to check out the great workshops and events hosted by the City of Sydney over the summer including social arts and craft groups, pop-up foodie nights and tours of the Sydney Opera House.
Brisbane
If you’re seeking culture, fun and excitement, explore the number of events, workshops and festivals from the Queensland Government. There’s even a free family movie night you can enjoy with your dog!
If you’re in the Gold Coast area, the Gold Coast Student Hub has organised a range of events for international students this summer. There will be opportunities to improve your English through an English conversation practice workshop, as well as laidback BBQ and pizza nights so you can relax with friends.
Adelaide
Adelaide will play host to the Summer Festival 2024 consisting of six free events held over the first six weekends of 2024. You’ll find plenty to do including an open-air cinema, water-themed inflatables and a foodie event.
If you would like to boost your resume and gain some valuable work experience, you might like to consider volunteering. From O’Week to health and wellbeing events, the Adelaide University YouX Volunteering Program will point you in the direction of a range of unique opportunities.
Perth
StudyPerth provides a comprehensive list of all the international student events happening in the city. You can attend everything from career counselling workshops to movie nights, clothes swaps, multicultural feasts, and more.
The student events page is constantly updated, so keep checking back to see what’s new including a fortnightly Student Speaking Club event to practice your public speaking and language skills, and Lunar New Year celebrations at Campus Perth.
Tasmania
Thanks to Study Tasmania, international students can enjoy workshops to help those looking for employment in hospitality such as a beginner’s guide to coffee making, basic food and beverage handling, responsible service of alcohol training and more.
Also, make sure to check with your education provider whether they have any events planned. If you are keen on finding work over the summer, you can also check out our tips for finding a job in Tasmania.
Darwin
There is plenty to see and do in Darwin, with events and activities covering books and film, food and drink, music, performing and visual arts.
For those with a drive for innovation, the Darwin Innovation Hub is hosting a number of events and information nights over the summer – perfect to learn some new skills and network!
Check out the full calendar of events in Darwin here including the Liquid Lights exhibition on the Darwin Waterfront lagoon or get-togethers with the Emerging Writers Group every week on a Thursday.
Canberra
Canberra is a great place to appreciate multicultural arts and entertainment, nature walks, sports, and dining over the summer holidays. The ACT Government will be hosting several events in the National Library of Australia, the National Gallery of Australia, and an open-air cinema at the Australian National Botanic Gardens. You can also check out our guide to the best things to do in and around Canberra this summer for inspiration.
If you’re interested in making new friends or meeting like-minded people, check out websites like Meetup, where you can join local book clubs, social basketball teams or board game groups, just to name a few.
As an international student, you will receive special discounts on tour packages and excursions, so don’t miss out!
