On 22 April 2020, the Tasmanian Government unveiled a $3 million package to support around 26,000 temporary visa holders, including student visa holders who are unable to leave the state due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Visa holders who are able to demonstrate immediate financial hardship will be eligible for $250 per week (for individuals) and $1,000 per week (for families). These payments are being referred to as ‘stage one’ of the support package.
Stage two will involve increased funding for non-government organisations to provide additional emergency relief and assistance targeted at temporary visa holders, such as students and workers.
In stage three, financial support and travel advice will be available for those who are able and wish to return to their home country.
Finally, in stage four, the Government will work with employers who want to retain their employees because of their specialist skills in the state.
For more information, you can read the ABC’s report here. Otherwise, keep an eye out on the Tasmanian Government website for updates.
