International Student Welcome Desk, at Sydney Airport

The International Student Welcome Desk at Sydney Airport is a vital resource for newly arrived international students in Australia. It is a collaborative initiative designed to provide a warm welcome, essential information, and support to students as they begin their educational journey in New South Wales.

The desk is financially supported by Study NSW. As part of the NSW State Government, Study NSW’s purpose is to promote international education in NSW in partnership with the Higher Education sector. This funding ensures the desk remains an accessible service for all international students.

If you'd like to join the International Student Welcome Desk volunteering program, sign up here.

Location and Operation

The Welcome Desk is located inside Sydney International Airport at T1 Arrivals, Gate A. It operates during peak international student arrival periods, typically at the start of academic semesters. The desk also serves as a pick-up point for international student transfers with 2airport.

Communiteer

As a leading volunteer management service, Communiteer oversees the coordination of volunteers and ensures the smooth operation of the desk. They handle volunteer recruitment, training, and scheduling, ensuring that the desk is staffed with capable and enthusiastic individuals.

Volunteers

The desk is staffed by friendly and knowledgeable volunteers who are passionate about supporting international students. These volunteers are often current students, alumni, or members of the local community who understand the challenges of arriving in a new country. Volunteers greet students, answer questions, and provide assistance as needed. They are trained to handle common queries and refer students to appropriate resources.

Study NSW

As part of the NSW State Government, Study NSW promotes the desk to incoming students and ensures it aligns with the broader goals of supporting international education in NSW.

Universities

Education Institutions provide information to students before they arrive to make sure students know about the desk’s services. Additionally, they promote the volunteering program as an opportunity for students to develop their skills and work experience once they’ve arrived.

Benefits for International Students

The Welcome Desk provides a range of services and support to ensure a smooth transition for international students:

1. Warm Welcome: A friendly face and a warm greeting help ease the anxiety of arriving in a new country.
2. Essential Information: Students receive practical support about transportation, accommodation, and local services. Volunteers provide guidance on how to reach their university or accommodation.
3. Orientation Materials: Students are given welcome packs containing maps, brochures, and guides about life in NSW. Information about university orientation programs and student support services is also provided.
4. Assistance with Immediate Needs: Volunteers can help students with SIM card purchases, currency exchange, and connecting to Wi-Fi. They also provide tips on staying safe and navigating the city.
5. Pick-Up Point for Universities: The desk serves as a designated meeting point for students who have arranged airport transfers through their university or accommodation provider.
6. Cultural and Social Support: Volunteers share insights about Australian culture and lifestyle, helping students feel more at home. They also provide information about student clubs, events, and community groups.

Impact of the Welcome Desk

The International Student Welcome Desk plays a crucial role in enhancing the experience of international students:

• Reduces Stress: By providing immediate support, the desk helps students feel more confident and prepared.
• Promotes NSW as a Study Destination: The desk reflects the state’s commitment to welcoming and supporting international students.
• Builds Community: It fosters connections between students, volunteers, and the broader community.

Sign up to volunteer!

If you'd like to join this program, fill in our form linked below for more information.

Sign Up

Looking for a meaningful way to give back and connect with others? Join the International Student Welcome Desk at Sydney Airport as a volunteer! This is your chance to pay it forward by becoming a friendly, welcoming face for new international students arriving in Sydney. Share your own experiences, offer practical advice on transport, accommodation, and settling into Australian life, and help others feel confident as they start their journey.

Volunteering at the Welcome Desk is a rewarding opportunity to build leadership and communication skills, meet people from around the world, and make a real difference in your community. Whether you’re a current or former international student, your insights and support can help ease the transition for others.

Benefits

• Gain work experience in communication, customer service, and teamwork;
• Build new social connections with fellow volunteers and international students from around the world; and
• Receive a certificate of recognition from Study NSW when you reach 30 volunteering hours.

Whether you’re looking to develop skills, expand your network, or simply give back, this is a rewarding opportunity to make a real impact.

Join us in creating a warm and supportive welcome for new students—apply to volunteer today and be part of a team that helps shape unforgettable first impressions!