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 Become a lifelong learner which will teach you to focus on personal development and understand how lifelong learning can improve your mental well-being, or learn How to build a personal brand.
For those looking to develop their careers, there is an in-person Resume writing workshop, an online event on Preparing for a job interview, and even a workshop dedicated to networking.
Sydney
Study NSW’s Summer Program has created a series of free and low-cost events and activities for international students to enjoy in Sydney and around the state.
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!
For those looking to further their careers, there is also a virtual Launch U Trade Accelerator Program (LTA) for students seeking international business experience by carrying out a real-life business project.
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 2023 consisting of six free events held over the first six weekends of 2023. You’ll find plenty to do including an open-air cinema, water-themed inflatables and a foodie event.
If it’s in your budget, consider joining the Words on Wheel’s Kangaroo Island 2-day Tour with Study Adelaide with international students in mind. You’ll visit the Seal Bay Conservation Park, sandboard on the dunes at Kangaroo Island and have all your meals catered including an Aussie barbecue.
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 Union’s 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 employment and wellbeing workshops to networking events, movie nights, surfing events and even day tours.
The Upcoming 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 sweet tooth or a passion for baking, StudyNT is holding a free one-day baking course at the International College of Advanced Education’s bakery. Guided by expert bakers, you will learn basic skills and knowledge on how to prepare and bake a range of healthy, tasty and inexpensive products that can be made at home. Plus, you’ll receive your very own recipe book covering the day’s recipes!
Check out the full calendar of events in Darwin here including the Some Like it Hot art exhibition, an afternoon with the Gadget and Games Club, and even a murder mystery night at the City of Palmerston Library.
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.
Cairns
Your summer plans in Cairns should definitely involve exploring the incredible natural landscape. Study Cairns’ Student Summer Holiday Campaign provides an opportunity to explore areas such as the Great Barrier Reef, Fitzroy, Green Island, Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforest, and the Atherton Tablelands. You can also sign up for a number of volunteering opportunities, social programs, and employability workshops on the website.
As an international student, you will receive special discounts on tour packages and excursions, so don’t miss out!
