Oz Buddy Program

Making friends in a new country is hard.

Oz Buddy makes it a little easier.

We match international students in Sydney with a peer who understands the journey.

For real friendship, honest conversations, and the kind of support that actually helps you settle in.

📅 6–8 weeks (9 June – 19 July 2026)

📍 Matched by location and interests

☕ Coffee chats, campus catch-ups, casual hangouts

🎓 Flexible around your study schedule

🏅 Certificate of recognition upon completion

You just need to be

• An international student currently studying in Sydney

• Open-minded, friendly, and respectful of all cultures and backgrounds

• Someone who shows up, engages, and gives it a real go

• Ready to join our International Student Volunteering Program

Whether you're just arriving or already settled in

there's a place for "Lead" or "Buddy"

What you'll get

Lead : Lived in Australia for more than 6 months

• Hands-on leadership and mentoring experience

• A volunteering credential to add to your CV and LinkedIn

• Meaningful cross-cultural connections

• The satisfaction of making a real difference for someone new

• Certificate of recognition when you complete the program

Buddy : Lived in Australia for less than 6 months

• A friendly peer who's already figured out Sydney life

• Real advice on study, transport, food, and everything in between

• A judgment-free space to ask questions and share your experience

• A chance to build genuine friendships in a new country

• Certificate of recognition when you complete the program

Real International Student Experiences

"Making friends as an international student felt much harder than I expected."

International Student

"Sometimes I wanted to go out or explore Sydney, but I didn’t really have anyone to go with."

International Student

"I wish I had someone to guide me through simple things when I first arrived in Sydney."

International Student

"I spent most of my time either at work, uni, or home because I didn’t know many people."

International Student

“There were moments where I missed having someone to just grab coffee with or talk to after a long week.”

International Student

“It can feel isolating when your family and closest friends are all back home.”

International Student

1. Expression of Interest

Fill in the form below to receive an invite via email to an upcoming induction session.

2. Induction Session

Attend an induction session hosted online via Zoom.

3. Introduction to your Buddy

Get to know your buddy and set up future meetings.

Welcome to the Oz Buddy Program registration form

Please take a moment to complete all details carefully. By submitting this form, you agree to the program commitments outlined below.

First Name *

Last Name *

Preferred Name

Phone *

Email *

Country of Origin *

Education Institution *

Education Area

College Email

Postal Code *

Which role do you want to apply for? *

4. How long have you been in Australia? *

Where did you hear about us?

Please read and confirm the following: *

I agree to attend regular catch-ups (in-person or online) throughout the program

I agree to attend the induction sessions and follow program guidelines before commencing (For those applying for leads)

Consent *

I agree to receive updates and announcements from LIVE in Australia and Communiteer.

By joining, you’re giving us permission to use and adapt the content you provide. We’ll always aim to use it respectfully and in line with our community values.

Cheers,

Nisha Thapa

Student Program Specialist

[email protected]

LIVE In Australia, 2 Locomotive Street Bay 15, South Eveleigh NSW 2015, Australia
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