Two states have criticised the Albanese government’s international education crackdown as an overreaction to a short-term migration surge, as Home Affairs says the Commonwealth doesn’t have the capacity to manage caps placed on foreign students without “significant” development.
“State government officials in overseas markets are reporting reputational damage to Australia, noting that the discussion on visas is affecting Australia’s broader standing as a place to do business,” their letter said, urging caution by considering long-term economic needs. In its submission to the Senate committee scrutinising the bill, the Department of Home Affairs said new resources would be needed to give effect to the policy.
“International education contributed $48 billion to the economy and drove half of Australia’s GDP growth last year. Our sector needs good policy, not politics, to continue delivering for the nation.”before the next federal election as both link the post-pandemic international student surge to Australia’s housing shortage.
“We will help providers work through these changes, but we will not shy away from making them,” she has said.