The University of Melbourne has welcomed the first students under a groundbreaking national initiative designed to open Australian higher education to refugees, marking a significant shift toward a more inclusive and globally conscious university sector.

Four students have been accepted through the Refugee Student Settlement Pathway (RSSP) pilot, a program developed jointly with the Australian Government, non-profit organisation Skill Path, civil society groups, and partner universities.

The initiative removes long-standing barriers faced by displaced students by offering access to Special Humanitarian Visas, permanent settlement, and the same rights and opportunities as domestic students.

The first student to arrive in Melbourne is Osamah, who fled Yemen’s brutal civil war in 2017 and has lived in limbo in Malaysia ever since. He is set to begin a Master of Biotechnology in 2026.

“When we left Yemen, we were looking to go to a place that we could call home. I hope Australia will offer those opportunities,” he said.

With an undergraduate biotechnology degree and research experience acquired in Malaysia, Osamah says he is eager to immerse himself in the industry-facing strengths of Melbourne’s program. “I want to experience the other side of biotech, which is the industry connection. And that’s what the biotech program here at the University excels at,” he said.

Pro Vice-Chancellor (International) Professor Adrian Little, who played an instrumental role in shaping the pilot, said the program reflects the University’s commitment to diversity and global responsibility.

“We know that a truly excellent campus is one that reflects the breadth and diversity of our global society. Welcoming talented students from different backgrounds enriches our learning environment, expands our perspective, and strengthens our ability to serve the public good,” he said. “This pilot is the result of collaboration and shared purpose with community partners, and we are proud of how our staff, students, and alumni contribute to this vision.”

Skill Path founder and CEO Stephanie Cousins, a University of Melbourne alumna, said the initiative has been carefully designed to ensure refugee students can access every layer of support available on campus and in the community.

“Everything from medical support to clubs and societies, financial and accommodation support – that’s really what you need when you’re a newcomer,” she said. “Students and institutions alike are ready to welcome them. You can see how strong an institution like this is for embracing new people. Everything they need is here.”

Under the RSSP pilot, Melbourne students will receive tailored settlement assistance, including accommodation, dedicated financial support, and mentoring through a specialised Student Welcome Group. Student volunteers supporting the program will be eligible for the University’s Global Citizenship Melbourne Plus credential.

The University of Melbourne is among several institutions participating in the national pilot, which will enable 20 refugee students across Australia to pursue degrees aligned with skills shortages, helping them rebuild their lives while contributing to the country’s future workforce.