Canberra's international education industry has reclaimed its spot as a billion-dollar export industry for the ACT.
According to the latest ABS International Trade in Services data, international education is now worth $1.1 billion, up 85 per cent on 2021-22 and up five percent on the pre-pandemic high of 2018-19.
The sector represents over 53 per cent of the ACT's total services industry exports.
International students make up almost half of the 40,000 strong student population and importantly this data confirms more students are returning to on-shore study where they make a valued contribution to the economic and cultural diversity of Canberra.
This is testament to the strength of the tertiary education sector in Canberra. It not only delivers high quality teaching but the opportunities for innovation and access to the people and research leading the way on solving the world's problems. Canberra is a global hub for learning and a true university city.
Students are also an important part of Canberra's welcoming and diverse community, and contribute to meeting critical workforce needs such as education, nursing, and allied health. As our workforce needs increase, attracting and retaining skilled people will be critical. The higher education sector is well placed to contribute strongly to that goal.
Quotes attributed to Professor Brian Schmidt, Vice-Chancellor and President, The Australian National University:
"ANU is proud to play a leading role in the ACT community and economy. We always stand ready to make valuable contributions that benefit our wonderful city and fellow Canberrans.
"It is heartening to see international education deliver outcomes that benefit all of us.
"As Australia's knowledge capital, Canberra is a place that attracts students from all over the world. And for good reason – it is a city of ideas, and world-class teaching and research.
"We are fortunate to be a destination of choice for students from all over the world. International students make a profound difference in our classrooms, our campuses and our communities.
"Education is truly a global language that improves lives, our future prospects and our world; it's great to see it taking centre stage here in the ACT."
Quotes attributed to Professor Lucy Johnston, Acting Vice-Chancellor, University of Canberra:
"The University of Canberra is pleased to see the strength of the international education industry in the ACT, reclaiming its spot as the top export in the Capital.
"Canberra is an ideal destination for international students, offering a quality living and studying environment and opportunities for industry exposure. As Canberra's university, UC will continue to offer international students a unique and personalised learning experience that connects them back to the region.
"UC deeply values international students as they bring valuable global perspectives and contribute to the multicultural spirit that is central to the University of Canberra and the city."
