Indian nationals including students living aboard are governed by the laws of the host countries. In the case of incidents of attacks on Indian nationals in Australia, at the instance of the Government of India, the Government of Australia have taken several important measures aimed at enhancing the safety and security of our students, both at the State as well as the Federal level. Over 54 arrests have been made and sentences have been handed down by the Australian authorities. Investigations are continuing and more arrests are expected to be made.

A Joint Working Group (JWG) with Australia on student mobility has been constituted with a view to consider regulation of employment agents and organize pre-departure orientation programme and make appropriate recommendations to the Government. The JWG held its first meeting on 6th October, 2009.

This information was given by the Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs, Shri Vayalar Ravi in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.