Rebuilding Australian International Education Sector Must Be Priority: Universities Australia

The peak body for the university sector in Australia, Universities Australia, has said that rebuilding the international education sector in Australia should be a priority.

Study in Australia: In the past, the Australian government was planning to put a cap on the number of international students which was highly opposed by the university sector and by politicians. After the government has decided not to put any cap for now, Universities Australia's CEO, Luke Sheehy said that rebuilding the international education sector must be a priority in 2025.

"International education as the nation’s fourth-largest export, it generates $40 billion annually and supports thousands of jobs. More importantly, it serves as a bridge to the world, strengthening ties with key regions, fostering collaboration and building cultural understanding. Students who come to Australia bring fresh perspectives, enrich campuses and communities, and gain access to world-class education. Many return home as lifelong ambassadors, while others stay to contribute their expertise to sectors like healthcare, technology and engineering," said Luke Sheehy.

"Looking ahead, international education will be critical to addressing global challenges and advancing Australia’s ambitions in renewable energy, advanced manufacturing and technological breakthroughs. A skilled, diverse workforce, shaped by international graduates, will drive progress. Yet the sector remains under pressure, with ongoing impacts from COVID-19 and visa challenges, and universities forecasting a $500 million shortfall in 2024. Rebuilding this sector must be a priority. By addressing barriers and supporting international education, Australia can reaffirm its status as a top destination for global talent. With world-class institutions and welcoming communities, we are well-placed to strengthen the partnerships and mutual benefits that make international education a cornerstone of global progress," added Luke Sheehy.

By 2050, Domestic Students Must Double With Expanded International Students Sector

Luke Sheehy statement also said that the Australian Universities Accord has a clear vision for future. Australian universities should double their domestic students number by 2050, and this will require making strategies to rebuild and diversify the international students sectors, and significant investment in the research, teaching and infrastructure.

The body also said that the government has taken many steps in this direction with initiatives like Future Made in Australia Act and the National Reconstruction Fund.

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