IHEA Submission on Inquiry into Australia’s Tourism and International Education Sectors

Independent Higher Education Australia (IHEA) provided a submission to the Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade (JSCFADT) inquiry into Australia’s tourism and international education sectors.

The inquiry explores the challenges and opportunities presented to both sectors since the reopening of Australia’s borders.

The Inquiry is a great opportunity to ensure Australia’s international education program and foreign policy settings remain fit-for-purpose and facilitate the higher education sector’s continued contribution to Australia’s productivity, economic resilience, and world class reputation as a destination of choice for study.

IHEA's submission primarily relates to international education in the independent higher education sector.

Our recommendations cover the following key themes:

1. An effective international education program with evidenced measures that meets Australia’s skills needs through attraction and retention.
2. Initiatives to ensure positive international student experiences and support pathways to build their skills and contribute to Australia's prosperity.
3. Online innovations in education delivery opportunities and potential opportunities to support strategic and foreign policy objectives.

This was submitted on 19 December 2022.

Thank you to IHEA members who provided feedback on this submission.