Australia on Tuesday announced that it would limit international student enrollments to 270,000 for 2025. This decision is part of the government's strategy to address record migration levels, which have led to a significant rise in home rental prices. The cap follows several measures implemented since last year to gradually end COVID-era concessions for foreign students and workers.
The plan is awaiting parliamentary approval. According to BBC's report, this measure, detailed by Education Minister Jason Clare, will divide the intake between higher education and vocational education and training (VET) sectors. Each higher education institution will be given an individual restriction, the government announced on Tuesday, with the biggest cuts to be borne by vocational education and training providers.
Australia currently hosts around 717,500 international students, according to the latest government figures from early 2024.
Education Minister Jason Clare acknowledged the challenges faced by higher education during the pandemic, when Australia sent foreign students home and imposed strict border controls. He highlighted that the number of international students at universities is now 10% higher than before COVID-19, while the enrollment at private vocational and training providers has surged by 50%.
"Students have returned, but so have opportunists trying to exploit this sector for quick profits," Mr. Clare stated. He noted that some providers have been accused of "unethical" practices, such as admitting students without adequate language skills, providing substandard education or training, and enrolling individuals who intend to work rather than study.
"These reforms aim to improve fairness and sustainability in the sector," Mr. Clare said. The restrictions are also intended to address Australia's record migration levels, which have exacerbated housing and infrastructure issues.
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Alongside the student intake cap, the Australian government has significantly increased visa processing fees, more than doubling them from AUD 710 to AUD 1,600 as of July 1. This represents the largest fee hike in the past five years.
The government has also introduced stricter minimum English-language requirements for international students, enhanced scrutiny for those applying for a second study visa, and taken action against hundreds of "dodgy" providers.
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