The international education sector in Australia is currently facing a crisis, with proposed government policies threatening dire economic consequences and risking the livelihoods of over 30,000 Australians employed in the sector, according to the Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia (ITECA). The proposed cap on international student numbers has sparked an outpouring of voices from industry leaders, warning of the damaging effects of such policies.
ITECA chief executive Troy Williams has criticized the Australian government’s international education policy, stating that it lacks a cohesive strategy and is drowning in baseless rhetoric. Williams highlighted the inconsistencies in the government’s approach, which has led to knee-jerk policy responses that are damaging Australia’s reputation as a welcoming destination for overseas students and causing anxiety for those employed in the sector.
During hearings on the Education Services for Overseas Students Amendment (Quality and Integrity) Bill 2024, Group of Eight chief executive Vicki Thomson warned of the potential impact on Australian jobs and the economy if international student enrolments were capped at pre-pandemic levels. She predicted that such a cap would cost the nation over $5.3 billion in economic output and over 22,500 jobs.
Education expert Andrew Norton also criticized the government’s policy backflips, noting the drastic shift from supporting the revival of international education to implementing measures to reduce international student numbers. Williams echoed these sentiments, warning of the reputational harm to Australia and the demonization of international students by the government.
ITECA has called for a long-term strategy for international education that creates a sustainable framework for the sector, protects jobs, and ensures that international students feel welcome. However, with the legislation expected to pass despite calls for it to be amended or put on hold, stakeholders are concerned about the existential threat it poses to independent providers that do not receive taxpayer funding.
Norton has argued that more time is needed to assess the impact of recent policy changes before implementing caps on international student numbers. He believes that migration changes in vocational education alone could reduce student numbers, and that delaying the caps until the full impact of these changes is known would be a prudent decision.
In conclusion, the Australian government’s proposed policies regarding international student numbers have sparked widespread criticism and concern within the sector. Industry leaders, experts, and stakeholders are calling for a more thoughtful and strategic approach to international education that prioritizes sustainability, job protection, and the welcoming of international students. It remains to be seen whether the government will heed these calls and reconsider its stance on the issue.