The State’s outstanding international students and organisations that support them were celebrated at the Sydney Opera House recently.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Trade and Investment Andrew Stoner and Parliamentary Secretary for Small Business and Regional Development John Barilaro congratulated the winners of the 2014 NSW International Student Awards.

“The NSW International Student Awards publicly acknowledge the positive contributions and achievements of these outstanding international students who come from a range of educational institutions,” Mr Stoner said.

“The winners and finalists have shown that even though they are here to study, they find time to help their peers and other members of the community.

“NSW’s global links are strengthened by the presence of international students in the State and we appreciate their contributions to their schools, colleges and universities and the wider community. We want to enhance the international student experience while they are here so they can become our unofficial ambassadors when they return home. Through Study NSW, an agency within NSW Trade & Investment, the NSW Government is working with the international education sector to ensure its long-term growth.”

Mr Barilaro, who represented the Deputy Premier at the awards presentation at the Sydney Opera House, said the finalists’ initiatives included advocating for and representing other international students, working with refugees, teaching children to sing, helping young people at risk, mentoring students, and volunteering and fund raising for charities.

“The winners are from a wide range of countries, including Kenya, Italy, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Ecuador, China, India, Belgium and Vietnam, reflecting the 177 countries from which our international students come,” Mr Barilaro said.

“This year, the awards include a new category – the International Student Community Engagement Awards – to recognise the initiatives of organisations, community groups and education providers that help international students connect with the community.

“By implementing a range of different initiatives, the winners of these awards have helped international students to feel part of the community and also to resolve issues they might face.”