Australia Moves Forward with ESOS Amendment Bill, Cap on International Students Considered

By Daniel October 15, 2024
Alarm 2 Min Read
Copied
Featured

In Australia, the Senate Committee has reviewed the perspectives of the education sector and has recommended the passage of the ESOS Amendment Bill, which proposes a cap on international students. This conclusion comes after four public hearings and some delays.

The Education and Employment Legislation Committee’s report acknowledges concerns from various education providers, particularly larger universities, regarding the proposed limits on international student enrolments and course cancellations tied to Australia’s skill needs. Despite these concerns, the committee emphasises the necessity of sustainably managing the international education sector to benefit Australia.

The report suggests that course-level caps for public institutions and selected private universities should be removed, advocating for institution-wide caps instead. Additionally, it recommends that the Minister consult with ESOS agencies and the Immigration Minister before imposing any limits on student enrolments.

Education Minister Jason Clare previously criticised Ministerial Direction 107, which prioritised students applying to low-risk institutions, stating it “throttled the system.” He supports the cap as a more effective solution for managing international enrolments.

However, dissenting opinions, particularly from the Greens, argue that the Bill should not be passed unless specific sections are removed, citing concerns about the newly proposed ministerial powers to limit enrolments. The Senate will soon debate the Bill, determining the future of international student policies in Australia.

Source: THE PIE NEWS

More Articles