SA international student flight program postponed in COVID-19 lockdown

The pilot program for international students to get back to Adelaide to complete their courses has been suspended.

The trial to fly back returning international students to South Australia has been postponed.

“Given the unfolding health situation in SA, the decision has been made to move the pilot to early 2021 to ensure the safety of South Australians, the ongoing repatriation of Australians, and the safe arrival of students,” a State Government spokesman said.

“The State Government continues to work with the state’s three public universities and the Federal Government to return international students to the state as part of a pilot program.

“We look forward to continuing this important project with the universities and welcoming back students when it is safe to do so.”

The program was due to begin this month with up to 300 students returning in small numbers at a time through to January.

All participants would be students who were already enrolled and needed to be present in Adelaide for practicals or placements to complete their course or year’s work.

Flights would be with Singapore Airlines and they would only get a seat if no returning Australian resident wanted it.

Students would undergo standard quarantine and be responsible for travel and accommodation costs.