The new trade agreement with India will give Australian exporters greater access to one of the world’s largest economies, deliver significant economic benefits and strengthen education and research ties for the benefit of both nations, Universities Australia Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said.
“The Prime Minister’s focus on working with India to build a strong strategic and economic partnership is exactly what we need,” Ms Jackson said.
“The value of this agreement is substantial and the opportunities it will bring for education, productivity, trade relations and cultural ties are huge.
“Before the pandemic, international export income contributed around $40 billion to Australia’s economy, with Indian students contributing $6.1 billion of that total figure.
“Australia and India share a deep commitment to educating as many citizens as possible and providing students with the opportunities they deserve.
“India is our second largest source market for international students, with nearly 70,000 Indian students studying at Australia’s world-class universities.
“The demand for a quality education will only grow, with a million Indians turning 18 each month and the Indian Government asking our universities to help educate their students.
“This agreement will enable our universities to play a leading role in the education of Indian students, both here in Australia and in India, while addressing barriers that might have previously prevented both Indian and Australian graduates from using their qualifications wherever they wish to work.
“This agreement will also support opportunities for Indian graduates to undertake post-study work in regions and cities where there is a clear need for their skills.
“We look forward to working with the Australian Government as this agreement is implemented and continuing to closely collaborate with India.”
Read our response to the original Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement announcement here.
