Universities Australia Chief Executive Catriona Jackson today welcomed the announcement that New South Wales will begin to safely return offshore international students to Australian universities this December.
"We are delighted to welcome this carefully developed pilot plan aimed at gradually returning
international students to our university campuses," Ms Jackson said.
"NSW university leaders have been working hard with the NSW State Government and the
Commonwealth on plans to safely return students for 18 months now. Today's announcement will
bring hope and certainty for many students who have been patiently waiting to return to New South
Wales campuses and realise their dream of a world class Australian education."
"Safety has been the top priority all through the process. Returning students will have to be fully
immunised with a TGA-approved vaccine and will undergo two weeks of rigorous quarantine on
Australian soil."
"Universities around the nation have been working diligently on pilot plans, and the NSW scheme
will be closely watched."
"Nearly half of all international students in higher education remain outside of Australia. Around one
third of our international PhD students are also offshore, anxious to return to complete their
research here. All of them will be looking to the success of the New South Wales initiative."
"International students make a significant cultural and economic contribution to Australian life, and
we look forward to a time when we can safely welcome all students back."
"We will continue to work with all levels of government, as well as be guided by expert medical
advice, in this endeavour."
