Australia’s Coalition Proposes $5,000 Student Visa Fee and Annual Cap Ahead of Elections
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Australia’s Coalition party has unveiled a controversial plan ahead of the upcoming federal election, pledging to cap annual international student arrivals at 240,000 and introduce a steep AUD$5,000 visa fee for those enrolling at top universities.
Leader of the Opposition, Peter Dutton, announced the policy with a goal to reduce overseas student commencements by 80,000 annually. Under this proposal, only 115,000 international students would be allowed to commence studies at public universities, with another 125,000 permitted in the VET, private, and non-university higher education sectors.
The plan also includes an increase in the standard student visa application fee to AUD$2,500 and an additional AUD$2,500 charge for students who wish to change education providers mid-study.
Dutton argues the policy is essential to address Australia’s housing crisis. However, the proposed measures have sparked strong backlash from education leaders.
Vicki Thomson, CEO of the Group of Eight (Go8) universities, criticised the move, calling it “damaging” and “illogical.” “Australia already has the world’s highest student visa fees. This proposal sends a deeply negative message to prospective students,” she said.
Phil Honeywood, CEO of the International Education Association of Australia, also condemned the plan, noting that it would deter talented students from choosing Australia as a study destination. “Charging AUD$5,000 for a non-refundable visa application is not only outrageous but counterproductive. Other countries like the UK and New Zealand will benefit from this,” he said.
Australia’s international education sector currently contributes around $50 billion to the national economy annually. Experts warn that harsh measures like these could risk long-term damage to the country’s global reputation as a welcoming study destination.
Universities Australia CEO Luke Sheehy criticised both major parties, warning that the sector is being “bitten by the hand that feeds it.”
With the election approaching, Australia’s stance on international education is set to become a key issue influencing both policy and perception on the global stage.
Source: THE PIE NEWS
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