New data shows Queensland's international education sector is more diverse than any other state.
The top largest nationalities studying in Queensland – China, India and Brazil – account for 42 per cent of the state's international enrolments.
In comparison, New South Wales' three leading ethnicities represent almost 50 per cent of its international intake; the top three ethnicities were even greater (56 per cent) in Victoria.
Researcher Deloitte Access Economics unveiled Queensland's broadening global appeal as the state's international education and training export revenue eclipsed $5 billion from 135,000 students for the first time.
"We can't put all our eggs in one basket," said Ministerial Champion for International Education Kate Jones.
"Today's data proves that our international education sector is more stable than any other in Australia.
"This is a testament to the fact that our strategy to diversify our population of international students is working."
Asia remains the top source of international students for eastern states but Queensland is quickly winning interest from Latin America, aiding diversity.
Brazilian student numbers increased 10 per cent in the last year while Colombia jumped to fifth on Queensland's overseas ladder with an 18 per cent gain in enrolments.
Deloitte also found:
- $5.2bn in export revenue was now generated by international education and training – a rise of 16 per cent year-on-year;
- 9.6 per cent increase in student enrolments;
- universities and vocational education and training facilities were the sector's best performing institutions, growing 12.1 per cent and 13.5 per cent, respectively;
- one in three students studied outside Brisbane;
- $98.8m was generated state-wide through visits by students' friends and relatives.
Ms Jones said the Palaszczuk Government intentionally marketed Queensland to a broad spectrum of students from around the world.
"International education and training is now the state's second-largest services export after tourism," said Ms Jones.
"The sector's economic, social and cultural contribution from Cairns to Coolangatta grows every year.
"Asia will always be important to Queensland's prosperity but embracing Latin American markets like Brazil and Colombia open up new economic and cultural opportunities.
"Engaging more students in more countries limits Queensland's reliance on any single market, providing a foothold for continued growth and emerging opportunities."
