IHEA Welcomes Coalition’s opposition to ESOS Bill.

Independent Higher Education Australia (IHEA) welcomes the Coalition’s decision to not support the Government’s Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Bill. This stance aligns with IHEA’s longstanding position that the proposed legislation would significantly harm Australia’s international education sector. We hope that the cross-bench will join the Coalition in opposing the Bill which is being debate in the Senate this week.

Dr Peter Hendy, CEO of IHEA, praised the Coalition’s decision, stating, “The Coalition’s opposition to the ESOS Bill demonstrates a clear understanding of the potential damage this legislation could inflict on our world-class higher education system and our reputation as a premier destination for international students.”

IHEA has consistently argued that the ESOS Bill, in its current form, poses significant risks to:
1.Australia’s critical education export industry
2.Our global reputation as an international education destination of choice
3.The overall integrity and quality of our higher education sector

“This bill, if passed, would undermine years of hard work and investment in building Australia’s international education reputation,” Dr Hendy explained. “It’s refreshing to see the Coalition recognise the far-reaching consequences of such ill-conceived legislation.”

IHEA maintains that the proposed changes in the ESOS Bill would introduce unnecessary regulatory burdens, potentially deterring international students from choosing Australia for their higher education needs.

Dr Hendy further commented, “The Independent sector has worked tirelessly to position Australia as a leader in international education. The ESOS Bill threatens to undo this progress, potentially costing our economy billions and damaging our relationships with key international partners.”

IHEA calls on the Government to reconsider its approach and engage in meaningful consultation with the sector to develop policies that strengthen, rather than weaken, Australia’s international education offerings.

“We stand ready to work with all parties to ensure that any changes to the regulatory framework enhance our sector’s competitiveness and maintain the high standards for which Australian education is known globally. It is critical that Ministerial Direction 107 be repealed immediately and certainty restored to the sector,” Dr Hendy concluded.

IHEA will continue to advocate for policies that support the growth and sustainability of Australia’s independent higher education sector and its vital contribution to the nation’s economic and cultural landscape.