Several Indian media outlets this week began circulating claims that some Australian educational institutions are currently banning or restricting student applications from Indian states like Punjab, Haryana, and Gujarat. These reports, however, misrepresent the present situation and appear to rely on outdated information, in some cases citing our 2023 coverage without the full context.
A previous report by The Australia Today from late 2023, which highlighted temporary concerns within Australian universities regarding applications from certain Indian states, has resurfaced, but this time in a misleading context.
No ban, confirms Australian High Commission
In response to the renewed media speculation, the Australian High Commission in New Delhi issued a firm statement, calling the reports “incorrect” and affirming that Australia continues to process Indian student visa applications under its standard global criteria.
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“The assertion that Indian university student applications from specific Indian states are being banned, or restricted, is incorrect,” a High Commission spokesperson said, adding that over 125,000 Indian students are currently studying in Australia, making them the second-largest international student cohort in the country.
The spokesperson also reaffirmed the strength of the India-Australia education partnership and Australia’s appreciation for Indian students’ contributions to society and learning environments.
The original context: What The Australia Today actually reported
In 2023, The Australia Today reported that a few Australian universities had temporarily paused or flagged concerns over applications from specific Indian regions due to rising visa fraud cases and student non-compliance. These actions were internal risk assessments, not government-mandated bans.
At the time, several institutions, including the University of Wollongong and Federation University, clarified that there were no official bans and that their policies were under review to maintain the integrity of the visa process. Our report aimed to offer a balanced and fact-based view of what was then a developing administrative matter, not a policy of exclusion.
Misinformation resurfacing at a sensitive time
The reappearance of this narrative, especially without the crucial context or timeline, comes as Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has proposed a temporary reduction in international student numbers to alleviate pressure on housing and infrastructure. However, this proposal has not resulted in any policy changes or restrictions targeting Indian students.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs, when asked, noted that visa issuance is a sovereign matter, but did not suggest any concerns regarding discrimination or targeting.
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Responsible reporting matters
The Australia Today urges all media outlets to verify sources and timelines, especially when republishing past reports. The education relationship between India and Australia is a pillar of bilateral ties, built on decades of trust, academic excellence, and mutual respect.
Our editorial commitment remains clear: to inform, not inflame. Recycled misinformation only risks unnecessary alarm among students, families, and institutions on both sides.
For verified news, policy updates, and India-Australia relations, stay with The Australia Today.
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