MEDIA RELEASE – IHEA Disappointed by Government’s Latest Move Against International Education

Independent Higher Education Australia (IHEA) is disappointed in the Minister for Home Affairs’ speech on migration policy to the National Press Club today, which specifies further restrictions on the international education sector.

IHEA notes that despite political pressure the Government resisted further cuts to the overall National Planning Level for international students. However, there were further restrictions on eligibility for individual international students when it comes to accompanying family, requiring another visa to move provider, and now only allowing course progression to a higher Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) level. These will all have negative impacts on the international student market.
“Eroding choice for international students hurts Australia’s reputation as a welcoming destination,” IHEA’s Chief Executive Officer, the Hon Dr Peter Hendy said.

“IHEA will continue to work through the details of the policy announcement with the Government over the coming weeks,” Dr Hendy said.

“As always, IHEA continues to advocate for the independent higher education sector and demonstrate its value for all Australians,” Dr Hendy said.