Australians will continue to enjoy the growing economic and social benefits from our world-leading international education sector.
The Council for International Education held its third meeting in Canberra today.
Council Chair Minister for Education Dan Tehan said it was agreed today that more work would be done to attract international students to regional areas as well as addressing the exploitation of international students.
"International education is Australia’s third highest value export, contributing $32.4 billion to the Australian economy in 2017-18 and supporting over 240,000 Australian jobs," Mr Tehan said. "International student enrolments in Australian schools were up six per cent to September 2018, representing more than 652,000 students choosing to study in Australia.
"Only the Morrison Government is keeping the economy strong by supporting a vibrant international education sector and securing its ongoing success by working to ensure visiting students enjoy a high experience."
Convener of the Expert Members of the Council the Hon Phil Honeywood said that the Council had today renewed its commitment to put students at the centre of its work, including by endorsing a package of actions to combat the exploitation of international students in the workforce.
"Australia’s international education sector will prosper by attracting more students from a wider range of countries, including strengthening our partnerships and engagement with Latin America," Mr Honeywood said.
Members of the Council also in attendance at the meeting were Minister for Foreign Affairs Marise Payne, Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Simon Birmingham, Minister for Small and Family Business, Skills and Vocational Education Michaelia Cash, Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews, Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs David Coleman, and expert members drawn from the sector.
The Council has worked with the sector to implement the Australian Government’s National Strategy for International Education 2025, supported by the $3 million Enabling Growth and Innovation Program.
