The Albanese Labor Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the integrity and sustainability of Australia’s international education sector with a significant shift in policy.
In response to the Liberal Party’s decision to oppose caps on international student numbers, the government is set to introduce a new Ministerial Direction aimed at better managing student visa applications.
Minister for Home Affairs Tony Burke criticised the Liberals’ stance on migration, stating,
“Peter Dutton wants to talk tough on migration but has voted to let it rip when it comes to international students. This is a counterbalance to his recklessness.”
The new approach will replace Ministerial Direction 107, prioritising visa applications for international students in a more balanced way, particularly supporting regional and outer metropolitan universities, as well as TAFEs that were overlooked by the previous government.
This move comes after consultations with the international education sector throughout 2024, with input from the Department of Education and the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.
Minister for Education Jason Clare echoed the sentiment, saying,
“Improving the current approach will strengthen our ability to manage the flow of international students, and better support regional education providers.”
Clare also noted the importance of ensuring that smaller and regional institutions benefit from the international education boom, alongside major inner-city universities.
Minister for Skills and Training Andrew Giles highlighted the need for a balanced system, stating,
“It’s critical that we strike the right balance between the benefits provided by our international education sector, and ensuring that our VET system is sustainable in the long term.”
The new Ministerial Direction, which takes effect today, is designed to ensure that Australia’s international education system remains strong, fair, and sustainable.
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