Australia has for many years been a welcoming destination for international students who bring with them diverse cultures, perspectives and aspirations. These young people leave their homes and families behind to pursue world class education qualifications and contribute to our nation’s vibrant academic landscape. Since 1985, the tuition fees they have paid have significantly supplemented government funding for domestic students and research. The Parkinson Review recently estimated that 35% to 40% of Australia’s annual university research spending comes from international tuition fee revenue.
The international education sector in Australia includes government and independent schools, English language providers, public and private VET providers, our public universities, independent Higher Education Providers, education agents and purpose built accommodation providers (PBSA). Across each of these providers, students from diverse cultural backgrounds enrich their classrooms, campuses and communities with unique experiences, traditions and perspectives. They open doors for our own local students in crosscultural understanding and enhance collaborative connections with others from around the world. Encouraged by Australian Government initiatives, such as the New Colombo Plan scholarship program, domestic students are increasingly studying in other countries’ education systems as well.
International students also play a pivotal role in Australia’s economic prosperity. They contribute billions of dollars annually, support our volunteer sector and address critical skills shortages. Their expenditures not just on tuition but also accommodation, transportation, daily essentials and tourism (including from friends and family visits) help sustain local business whilst bolstering our nation’s economic growth.
Recommendations fall under three areas:
- Integrity and Good Governance
- Economic Development and Skills Integration
- Soft Power Diplomacy and Community Integration
