A  Charles Sturt University (CSU) postgraduate student has been elected to the executive of a national body representing international students in Australia.

PhD student Ms Saba Nabi is the new equity officer for the Council of International Students Australia (CISA). She was elected at the annual general meeting held in Melbourne on Thursday 9 July.

As president of the CSU International Students Association, Ms Nabi has been tireless in promoting the interests and raising the profile of international students at the University, as well as the benefits of living in regional Australia.

Ms Nabi said, "As a representative and an advocate for regional Australia, I always felt that the voice of international students was lost in the crowd but now coming on board the CISA I am sure the unified voice will be heard.

"Equality for all in Australia is the need of the hour. Addressing issues of cultural, racial, religious, and workplace discrimination and intolerance by promoting respect, inclusion, education and a sense of belongingness for everyone will be my priority.

"Moreover, I often feel that the international students are unfamiliar with their rights, entitlements, services and facilities available to them, and because of this they are often open to ill-treatment and exploitation.

"The CISA will give me a platform to work closely with federal and state government departments, education peak bodies, student organisations, and education providers.

"In short, my new position is a great way to celebrate diversity and multiculturalism in Australia," she said.

Ms Nabi moved from New Delhi, India, to Wagga Wagga in 2011 with her young family to pursue a PhD in pharmacy through the CSU School of Biomedical Sciences.

In 2012, the postgraduate student became the first international student to take a seat on the University's governing body, the CSU Council. In 2014, Ms Nabi won the Higher Education category of the NSW International Student Awards.

CISA was established in 2010 and is the national peak student representative body for all international students in Australia.