Australia has announced plans to cap the number of new international students, aiming to bring overall migration back to pre-pandemic levels.
Limiting New Enrolments to 270,000 by 2025
The Australian government revealed on Tuesday that it will limit the number of new international student enrolments to 270,000 for the year 2025. This move is part of a broader effort to manage migration more effectively while maintaining the country’s position as one of the largest international student markets globally.
Individual Restrictions for Educational Institutions
Under the new policy, each higher education institution in Australia will face specific restrictions on the number of international students they can accept. The most significant reductions will impact vocational education and training providers, as the government seeks to balance the distribution of international students across different sectors.
Backlash from the Education Sector
The announcement has sparked outrage within the tertiary education industry, with some universities criticizing the cap as “economic vandalism.” They argue that the restrictions could harm the sector’s financial stability and international reputation. However, the government defends the move, asserting that it will enhance the quality and sustainability of the education sector in the long term.
Government’s Justification for the Cap
Canberra argues that by capping enrolments, the quality of education for both domestic and international students will improve. The government believes this measure will help ensure that Australia’s education system remains robust and competitive while addressing concerns about over-reliance on international student revenue.
The cap represents a significant shift in Australia’s approach to international education and will likely have far-reaching implications for universities and students alike.
