September 17, 2026
The Australian Government’s nuanced approach to managing international student numbers will help ensure our leading research-intensive universities maintain a pipeline of high-quality talented researchers from around the world.
Group of Eight Chief Executive Vicki Thomson said: “By providing exceptions for families of international PhD students seeking to study in Australia, the Government has recognised that not all international students are the same, and that high-quality PhD students are essential to Australia’s research capability, skills pipeline and long-term economic strength.”
“Australia’s research‑intensive universities compete globally to bring in future scientists, engineers, doctors and innovators who strengthen Australia’s research capability, workforce and economy.”
“Collectively, Go8 universities educate over 13,800 international PhD students or 54 per cent of the national total. These high ability students are exactly the kind of talent Australian cannot afford to deter. They are the future researchers and innovators who go on to fill critical roles and who directly strengthen Australia’s national capability.”
“This decision sends an important message to global talent. If we genuinely want the world’s top scientists, engineers and clinicians to choose Australia, we have to stop signalling that they are unwelcome.”
“Losing international PhD talent today means losing research breakthroughs, industry partnerships and global networks tomorrow. This debate is about much more than migration numbers; it is a national capability issue.”
“The Go8 has always said we need a system based on quality, integrity and strong standards. International education cannot be a free-for-all, but nor should international students be used as political plaything.”
