Winners shine at the 2026 Victorian International Education Awards

This year’s winners and finalists showcased the many ways international students enrich Victoria. They strengthen:

• our communities
• our campuses
• our connection to the world.

They also reflect the impact of Victoria’s world-class international education sector and reinforce our reputation as a leading study destination.

The Premier’s Award for International Student of the Year was awarded to Josh Nguyen for driving meaningful change in mental health, particularly for marginalised communities.

Since arriving in Melbourne from Vietnam, Josh has built an extraordinary life in Victoria as a researcher, psychologist and community leader, helping people from diverse backgrounds feel supported and empowered.

The International Student of the Year award recipients for 2026 are:

• Josh Nguyen (University of Melbourne): Research
• Dr Alireza Heidarian (RMIT University): Emerging Leader – International Alumni Award
• Lucas Jin (Monash College): English Language
• Nguyen Nguyen (Swinburne University of Technology): International Student/Graduate Entrepreneur of the Year
• Jesselyn Sin (Monash University): Higher Education
• Stella Schneckenburger (Deakin University): Regional
• Heidy Wandurraga (Greystone College): Vocational Education and Training

Last year our international education sector generated $17.9 billion in export revenue and supported around 69,000 Victorian jobs.

Victoria also welcomed more than 322,000 international student enrolments from around 170 countries.

Learn more about the Victorian International Education Awards winners and finalists on the Study Melbourne website.