Western Sydney University announces to provide US $ 1,400 to Chinese students transiting in a third country when they come here to study.

"Our students are expecting to come to Australia and start the new school year as soon as possible. After considering the costs incurred while in transit in another country, the school decided to give the students a sum of money. $ 1,400 grant, "said a representative from Western Sydney University.

Australia has banned direct entry from mainland China since January 1, to prevent the spread of Covid-19. Yesterday's ban was extended, effective until February 29. However, the Australian government said students who left China more than 14 days will be allowed to enter.

As the new school year in Australia has begun, universities fear thousands of students will drop out and consider alternatives if they are unable to attend classes in the coming weeks.

Foreign students bring about $ 23.1 billion a year to the Australian economy, with about a third of Chinese students.

Australia's eight largest universities, with about 105,000 Chinese students, said last week that the ban on entry cost the economy more than $ 660 million. 7,500 people are at risk of losing their jobs if the number of Chinese students drops 10%.

The leader of Qantas Airways said yesterday that it had been asked by universities in Australia to ensure that all Chinese students return to study after the restrictions were lifted.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison is facing pressure to lift travel restrictions, due to its burden on the Australian economy.

According to Australian media, the government is discussing allowing some Chinese students not from Wuhan to enter. However, a spokesman for Prime Minister Morrison declined to comment on the matter. Morrison today affirmed the government is seeking to ease the burden but will not provide direct financial support to universities.

"We are implementing some projects in the field of education ... However, do not forget that our universities have abundant capital," Morrison said.

Australia recorded 15 cases of nCoV infection and has not detected any new cases since the ban on entry from China came into effect. 10 cases have recovered, the remaining 5 people are in stable condition.

The Covid-19 outbreak started in Wuhan, China since December 2019, and has appeared in 28 countries and territories around the world. As of today, the epidemic has 2,247 deaths, 76,202 people infected, including 18,221 recover.