Student Accommodation Council Executive Director Dr Adele Lausberg said the Government had struck a sensible balance by targeting integrity issues within the migration system rather than pursuing broad cuts to international student numbers.
“International education is one of Australia’s most valuable export industries and international students make an enormous contribution to our economy, universities, workforce and local communities.
“Today’s decision appropriately tightens the system and at the same time recognises that international students should not be a proxy for broader migration challenges.
“International students account for just 6 per cent of Australia’s rental market, yet they are too often placed at the centre of Australia’s housing debate.
“Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) should be treated as essential housing infrastructure. Every student housed in PBSA is one less person competing in the private rental market.”
However, Dr Adele Lausberg said the sector remained concerned about the cumulative impact of ongoing visa changes and policy uncertainty.
“Australia must be careful not to create uncertainty through continual changes to student visa settings, approvals and eligibility pathways.
“International students have choices. They are comparing Australia with the other traditional study destinations of the UK, Canada, and the United States as well as numerous other countries who recognise the economic value of the sector.
“Students considering where to study are looking for quality education, safety and a welcoming environment, but they are also looking for certainty.
“Potential students sitting in Jakarta, Bogotá, Shanghai and Bangalore are watching these announcements closely.
“If Australia develops a reputation for constantly changing the rules, students may simply choose to study somewhere else.
“A sensible migration framework and a strong international education sector are not competing objectives. They go hand in hand.
“International education supports jobs, investment, research, tourism and housing delivery. Australia’s reputation as a destination of choice has been built over decades and we should be careful not to weaken it through unnecessary uncertainty.”
