The Allan Labor Government is saying yes to international students by expanding world-class Victorian higher education in China.
In Shanghai today, Premier Jacinta Allan announced that RMIT University and the Shanghai University of International Business and Economics (SUIBE) have officially commenced the formal process to form a Joint Institute.
The universities signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Beijing to elevate their 25-year relationship. It's now one of the highest-level international education collaborations in China.
The deal will deliver more high-quality, Australian-accredited programs for students in Shanghai, including masters degrees and courses focused on technology in business.
RMIT programs have been delivered by SUIBE for more than 25 years with more than 4600 students graduating- strengthening trade and investment ties between Australia and China.
A Joint Institute is the highest level of international education partnership available in China and will build on RMIT University's role as a leader in Victoria's international education sector, and on Victoria's friendship with China.
RMIT University also delivers courses at several Chinese universities in Victoria's sister-state Jiangsu Province.
This builds on the Allan Labor Government's $5 million Yes to International Students Fund, which helps Victorian universities and TAFEs expand offshore campuses, launch new courses and exchange programs - strengthening Victoria's offering to international students.
International education is Victoria's largest services export, worth $15.9 billion in 2024 and supporting 64,000 local jobs.
By growing opportunities overseas, we are growing our economy and boosting the global standing of our institutions − cementing Victoria as Australia's education capital.
Victoria's China Strategy has three big priorities: education, education and education. It sets a big goal - Victoria as the destination of choice for Chinese people to visit and study.
As stated by Premier Jacinta Allan
"RMIT is joining forces with a leading Shanghai University to take Victoria's education offering to the world."
"My three priorities in China are education, education, education."
"In Victoria, we say yes to international students - they bring jobs, they boost our reputation, and they keep us connected to the world."
As stated by Minister for Economic Growth and Jobs Danny Pearson
"This is yet another example of Victoria leading the nation in transnational education. We will continue to back our world-class TAFEs and universities to bring our biggest services export to China."
As stated by Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney
"This new Joint Institute strengthens Victoria's global reputation in education and deepens our partnership with China. It is an example of the leading role Victorian TAFEs and universities play in taking Victorian education to the world."
As stated by RMIT Interim Deputy Vice-Chancellor International and Engagement Layton Pike
"Todays announcement of an expanded RMIT partnership will directly support a goal in Victoria's new Strategy to see expanded transnational education offerings in China."
