NEWS

07/07/2014

In a small corner between Bourke Street and Exhibition, international students can find a place to relax, socialise and make new friends. We`re talking about ‘’The Couch’’,  where students can have free meals every day, free haircut, WI-Fi internet, learn a new job, support and information about important issues, like housing, employment and legal aid. Furthermore, you can make new friends and have a really good time.

The project is part of the Salvation Army and it was originally intended to be a place where international students can feel at home. Nowadays, it is also popular with local students. From hip hop dance classes to barista classes, all the activities at The Couch are free and open to everyone.

Peter Hichaaba, 31 years, works in the bar and is also the manager and explains how The Couch works.  “I work here as a volunteer and everyone can come here and make new friends; you got free internet and meals every day. Everyone is welcome”, he said.

Luiz Filipini, 27, Brazilian, explained that the Couch was the place where he met new friends when he first arrived in Melbourne in 2013. Back in that time, he had a Basic English level and the free conversation classes at The Couch helped him. “Every week we had free English classes at the Couch. It was a good opportunity to improve my English and also meet new friends”, he said. Curious about the Couch? The place is open Monday to Thursday from 5pm to 9pm.

By Valter Ribeiro